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Tourism in Galapagos Islands needs a restriction for preserving ecosystem

Saturday, February 10, 2018

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Tourism in Galapagos IslandsWith its iconic giant tortoises, crested black iguanas, huge ocean manta rays and a true menagerie of other exotic creatures, the Galapagos Islands are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and sought after places on this planet.

 
Who wouldn’t want to go to a white sand beach basking in the sun alongside a lounging iguana, or surf in waters with those lumbering tortoises swimming beside you and a rainbow of tropical fishes below? However, for protecting the flora, fauna and ecosystem of this Pacific archipelago that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, Ecuador will need to turn away almost millions of would-be tourists every year.

 
Ecuador would have to put a tight lid on tourism for preserving this volcanic string of 19 large islands, dozens of islets and rocky outcroppings.

 
The Ecuador Tourism Minister Enrique Ponce de Leon said, “The Galapagos are the crown jewel, and as such, we have to protect them,”. “We must be drastic in caring for the environment.”

 
With a network of small hotels and ferries running between the islands, the Galapagos — about 1,000 kilometres off the coast — is an eco-tourism destination that features among the most select spots in the Pacific. Flights from Quito or Guayaquil cost about $400 round-trip, and a one-week stay range from $2,000-7,000 per person.

 
The flow of tourists has now risen to 245,000 per year and the authorities say that’s pretty much over the limit.

 
Preyed on in the past by pirates and whaling ships, the Galapagos these days battle with illegal fishing, effects of climate change and the arrival of intrusive species such as dogs, cats and rats brought over from the mainland. The national park was created in 1959 to protect 97 percent of the islands’ land surface, and in 1978, UNESCO classified the archipelago as a World Heritage Site. A marine reserve spanning 138,000 square kilometres was also established.

 
For years, the authorities are curbing construction and encouraging renewable energy sources and electric cars. Plastic bags are banned. On the island of Baltra, which is the main port of entry, the airport runs exclusively on solar and wind power.

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