New rates to enter Galapagos: Next step or behind?

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The government of Galapagos announced the application of new rates to enter the Galapagos National Park: A step forward or back?

Last 24 February 2024, the Governing Council of the Special Regime of Galapagos approved the update of the income rate for conservation of protected areas in the archipelago. This measure, which had not been modified in the last 26 years, has generated mixed reactions among travelers and the local community.

Even, I asked on my X account what you guys thought., followers of the blog and the reactions were multiple, although they were more inclined to support this measure, that seeks to stop the accelerated growth of tourism in Galapagos.

New rates to enter the Galapagos

In extraordinary meeting, with five votes in favor and four against, The Plenary Session of the Governing Council of the Special Regime of Galapagos approved the update of the income rate for conservation of protected areas in the archipelago. These values ​​will be in effect in 6 months.

The new values:

• Nationals: $30 (before $6)
• Foreign: $200 (before $100)

It is unknown if travelers from countries in the Andean Community o Mercosur will maintain a differentiated rate, since until now they pay $50 O $25 if they are adults or minors 12 years.

The debate

Now comes the controversial part of this measure, is it good or is it bad? It certainly depends on the point of view of each reader., of their reality or even if they live off tourism in the Islands.

What is clear is that Galapagos must be cared for and protected, understanding that it is not just another beach Cancún, but it is a natural reserve of global care and interest, You must have strict control of your visitors, but also understanding that there are many other problems on the islands such as introduced pests such as cats, dogs, goats and others.

As I said above, I asked the question in X and I summarized their answers like this:

Profits:

• Conservation Financing: Funds raised will go towards protecting the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos, including the fight against invasive species, the management of protected areas and scientific research.
• Sustainable development of local communities: Will be invested in education projects, health, environmental sanitation and other basic services to improve the quality of life of Galapagos residents.
• Tourism control: The new rate seeks to regulate the flow of visitors and promote more responsible and sustainable tourism.

Negative aspects:

• Impact on tourism: The increase in the price of the tax could deter some travelers from visiting the Galapagos, especially those on tight budgets, affecting the income of the tourism sector that depends on this segment.
• Inequity: The significant difference between the rate for nationals and foreigners could generate a perception of discrimination in different groups of travelers..
• Lack of transparency: There is concern about the lack of clear and accurate information on how the funds raised will be used, its real reinvestment in the islands and its people but not in bureaucratic expenses or expenses unrelated to its main objective.

What's more, Let's not forget that this is not the only value that travelers pay, To the new rates the value of $20 what have the Transit Control Card that all travelers must acquire in Quito, Guayaquil and Manta.

In conclusion, updating the entry fee to the Galapagos National Park is a measure with the potential to generate important benefits for the conservation and sustainable development of the archipelago. Nevertheless, it is important to consider the possible negative consequences and ensure transparency in the management of the funds raised.

What do you think about the new rates?? Share your opinion in the comments…

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