Why a Galapagos Islands Photography Holiday?
It is impossible to dispute that the Galapagos Islands are some of the most fascinating islands in the world, famed for being the launchpad of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.
However, its past treatment has put the islands at great risk, meaning conservation efforts are paramount.
Since Darwin’s visits, humans have caused innumerable problems in the Galapagos, from whalers lowering populations drastically populations to biologists and scientists taking away far too many samples, which as had a detrimental effect, killing off whole strains of species.
In addition, settlers to the islands have imported flora and fauna species from the mainland which have spread to the extent that native species are being overtaken and are quickly dying out. Resulting in over 60% of native plants becoming severely under threat.
To face up to this threat, the president of Ecuador declared conservation in the Galapagos Islands as a national priority, and in 2008 Ecuador was the first country in the world to grant legal rights to nature.
We will be joining conservation projects, a partnership between between local communities, the National Park authority and local government, in the Galapagos to help preserve this incredible biodiversity, all the while photographing its enchanting beauty.
All our conservation photography holidays and volunteering opportunities are fully financially protected through International Passenger Protection and for those including flights – ATOL.
What will I be doing?
Although the project is based on the wonderful island of San Cristobal, we will be taking visiting many locations within the Galapagos archipelago. These include La Galapaguera, Isla Lobos, Espanola Las Negritas and La Loberia.
With a huge array of species, such as, Giant Tortoise, Blue Footed Boobie, Waved Albatross, Frigate Birds, Sea Lions and Marine Iguanas, among a huge array of other species, this is a trip of a lifetime.
During the holiday 50% of the days will be purely for photography, whilst the other days will be spent at the project site helping with a range of tasks. However, you will have 2 ‘free days’ and the project finishes at 13:00 on these days for you to spend the afternoons as you wish.
Tasks during project days are varied and depend on the need, but could include:
- Identifying and surveying native flora and fauna, including the majestic giant tortoise and amazing birds
- Invasive vegetation clearing
- Planting seedlings to restore native and endemic species
- Beach clean ups and litter picks in wildlife rich areas
- Assisting on an organic farm to learn about sustainable farming
- Work within the community
- Collecting data on water levels, in conjunction with the local government
- Education programmes in local schools, with the aim to teach children the importance of conservation
Why should I join this Expedition?
The Galapagos is one of the most dreamed-of locations for many travellers who love the great outdoors, wildlife and nature. To be able to contribute to the survival of this astonishing environment is not only important, it is also lots of fun.
No trip to the Galapagos would be complete without exploring, and as such one of the great highlights is exploring the islands – We’ve chartered several boats to various locations to highlight the beauty of this Galapagos Islands
Price Includes
- All Boat Charters and Day Permits
Price Excludes
- Lunch
- Meal on first evening