AboutRobin Slater Expertise Specialist in the Galapagos Islands (cruises, yachts, islands) as well as travel-related questions or concerns. This includes: hotels, hostels, haciendas, excursions, cities, activities, transportation, climate and weather, current events, Amazon rainforest, cloudforest, Andean highlands, Pacific coast.
Experience Born and raised in Ecuador and have extensive travel experience both for mainland Ecuador as well as the Galapagos Islands. Currently living in Quito. Also travelled extensively to Spain, Belize, Mexico, UK, USA, Panama & Canada.
My name is Sebastian and I attend school in Quito, Ecuador. I am studying the Galapagos Islands and have some questions. If you can answer any of these questions I would appreciate your help.
I learned that the Galapagos Islands have many tourists but how many are there annually and what is the impact to the islands because of the tourists?
Are there any animals that are endangered? If so, where and what is the name of the animal?
What is the best cruise or yacht on the Galapagos Islands that you would suggest to visitors?
What are your favorite islands to visit and why?
Thank you very much for your help. I appreciate your time. Thanks again.
Sincerely,
Sebastian
Answer Sebastian -
Ther most recent tourist visitor numbers to Galapagos are aproximately 88,000 each year. This is has been a gradual increase from 1974 when about 7500 people visited the islands. 10 years later, in 1984 18,858 visitors were recorded. In 1990 there were 41,192 and in 1995 55,782.
In terms of impact, it is best that you ask the Charles Darwin Research Station in Galapagos, who would be more able to accurately answer this.
There are numerous endangered animals in Galapagos, but the most endangered are the Galapagos Penguin, Galapagos Tortoise and Galapagos snail.
In terms of "best cruise or yacht" it is a relative question. It is like asking what is the best car. It all depends on a persons needs (i.e., itinerary, services etc). A short list would include the Archipel I & II, Diamante, Sea Cloud, Xpedition, Sagitta, Mistral, Parranda, Beluga, Erik, Sky Dancer.
My favourite islands (if I had to pick one .. which is difficult) is Espaņola Island. Why? The diversity of flora and fauna. That being said, they are all wonderful islands .. each with their own highlights.
