By Captain Bob

The Galápagos is one of the few places on our planet that is not all about man. Here, all the regulations favor the “Endemic species”. The native animal residents of this land and sea park are protected in every possible way. The Park is protected from illegal fishing by a coastal patrol. All the resident fishermen, guides and residents are active lookouts for any activity deemed illegal to the Park.
Lookout shacks at mountain top locations report vessels  approaching or landing on restricted areas. Special permits have to be obtained to go anywhere within the Park.
Movement by water is highly controlled. Private vessels cannot deploy their tenders and move around without authorization and a guide. All swimming and diving has to be supervised  by dive boat operations utilizing authorized guides and naturalists.
The first thing you are cautioned about is to initiate no contact with any animals. They may touch you, but you cannot touch them. 

Red Footed “Boobie”

Galapagos Penguin

Blue Footed Boobies