Galapagos national park rules and regulations

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most magical places on earth. Here animals live without fear and do not run away from visitors. To maintain the uniqueness of the Galapagos Islands the National Park Service has developed rules to aid in the preservation.

Guides explain and enforce these rules making sure that visitors stay together on marked paths and respect the follow the other park service regulations:

• No plant, animal, or remains of such (including shells, bones, and pieces of wood), or other natural objects should not be removed or disturbed.
• Be careful not to transport any live material to the islands, or from island to island.
• Do not take any food to the uninhabited islands, for the same reason.
• Do not touch or handle the animals.
• Do not feed the animals. It can be dangerous to you, and in the long run would destroy the animals' social structure and breeding habits.
• Do not startle or chase any animal from its resting or nesting spot.
• Stay within the areas designated as visiting sites.
• Do not leave any litter on the islands, or throw any off your boat.
• Do not deface the rocks.
• Do not buy souvenirs or objects made of plants or animals from the islands.
• Do not visit the islands unless accompanied by a licensed National Park Guide.
• Restrict your visits to officially approved areas.
• Show your conservationist attitude.