Share The LOVE Galapagos National Park Fee Increase The Galapagos Islands is introducing a significant new fee structure, a pivotal part of an initiative to encourage conservation and sustainable tourism. The Galapagos National Park Authority and the Minister of Tourism, Niels Olsen, are leading this effort, with the changes taking effect on August 1, 2024. The First Fee Increase in a Long Time This update, the first in more than 26 years, demonstrates Ecuador’s commitment to protecting the islands’ distinct ecosystem and guaranteeing its conservation for the benefit and enlightenment of upcoming generations. Adjusting the entrance fees is crucial in balancing tourism’s economic advantages and environmental conservation’s essential goal. The fees will go towards supporting conservation projects, improving infrastructure, and implementing community initiatives to minimize the impact of tourism on the islands. The new fees will also be used to enhance sewage systems, waste management, and medical facilities, improving environmental resilience and the health of the island’s residents and tourists. New Fee Amounts and Categories Foreigners Children 12 yrs old or younger: 100 USD Adults 13 – 64 yrs old: 200 USD Foreigners from CAN/Mercosur Children 12 yrs old or younger: 50 USD Children 12 yrs old or younger: 100 USD Ecuadorian Citizens Children 12 yrs old or younger: 15 USD Children 12 yrs old or younger: 30 USD Sustainability and Community Development To support sustainability and community development, the entrance fees collected will be allocated to local entities, such as the Government Council of the Special Regime of Galapagos and the Municipal GADs of San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and Isabela. “The Galapagos Islands are a global treasure, and it is our shared duty to protect this unique ecosystem for those who come after us,” stated Niels Olsen, Minister of Tourism. Announcing the new entrance fee is a crucial measure to support the long-term sustainability of tourism on the Galapagos Islands, a move that promises significant benefits for both the environment and local communities. What Travelers Can Look Forward to Travelers to the Galapagos Islands can look forward to enhanced conservation initiatives, upgraded amenities, and educational opportunities to improve their understanding of the islands’ ecological significance. For more information about the latest entrance fee structure and how it will be allocated, kindly visit www.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec. Collaboratively, we are starting a mission to protect the Galapagos Islands for upcoming generations, promoting a balanced connection between tourism, community growth, and conservation. To Wrap it Up The new Galapagos National Park Fees are a significant step towards protecting one of the planet’s most intriguing, unique and special places. Almost all marine areas levy fees for liveaboards, and still, the new increase for the Galapagos Islands is less than many marine parks where you can dive. So, let’s support the Ecuadorian government in this positive move to conserve this precious biodiversity region. Written By: Brett Robertson (Diver and Vegan) PADI Platinum Course Director | Dive educator | Dive resort and liveaboard owner | Vegan advocate for conservation projects and plant-based lifestyles, and a burgeoning serial runner. See author's posts
