Know Before You Go

Whether you're preparing for an upcoming trip to the Galapagos, or just want to know more about this fascinating archipelago, be sure to check out these helpful resources. Learn about the wildlife found nowhere else on earth, browse helpful packing tips and read compelling travel stories that will inspire your sense of wonder for these unique islands.

Travel Tips

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Travel Stories & Articles

New Galapagos Coral Reef Discovered

—By Candice Gaukel Andrews
Deep beneath the waters of the Galapagos Marine Reserve and atop a submerged volcano, an ancient coral reef was just discovered by an international group of scientists. It’s the first to be documented inside the protected area since it was established in 1998. Stretching out for several miles, the reef supports a breathtaking mix of marine life.

Galapagos Species That Are Back from the Brink

—By Samantha Miller
New initiatives in the Galapagos are seeking to rediscover and reintroduce species lost to climate change and human activity like the Fernandina giant tortoise that was found after 113 years of ‘extinction.’

The Mystery of Charles Darwin’s Missing Manuscripts Has Been Solved!

—By Megan Brief
Discover the contents of Darwin's missing notebooks, including his famous ‘Tree of Life’ illustration from 1837!

Partnerships That Make a Difference: Supporting the People & Wildlife of the Galapagos Islands

—By Jon Jared
At least one native guide accompanies each group on a Nat Hab Galapagos trip. These residents are trained by the national park, with guidelines developed in collaboration with the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Research Station. Their experience gives a unique insight into the culture and the wildlife of the archipelago.

Sustainable Farm Contributes to Galapagos Giant Tortoise Conservation

—By Emily Goodheart
Roberto Plaza is the owner of Montemar, a sustainable farm on Santa Cruz Island. Proceeds from purchased Arabic coffee grown on the land fund the restoration of tortoise ecosystems, as the area serves as an important migration route for these rare creatures as they move from the highlands to the coastal lowlands to lay their eggs.

Safeguarding Migration Routes from Ecuador to Costa Rica with the Creation of the Hermandad Marine Reserve

—By Megan Brief
Recognizing that the long-term coexistence of humanity and wildlife requires a sustainable balance, Ecuador's President announced the creation of the Hermandad Marine Reserve, a migratory superhighway that connects the Galapagos Marine Reserve to protected Costa Rican waters.

Why the Galapagos Is My Happy Place

—By Tracy Schuh
This special place in the Pacific Ocean with coordinates around 0°0°0° beamed with a flourishing ecosystem, delighted my soul in a profoundly epic way and reminded me what is possible if we make choices that protect these wild places on our beautiful planet. To quote Charles Darwin, “The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man.”

The Galapagos Islands with Kids: Where History, Geology and Conservation Come to Life

—By Cathy Brown
I’m convinced that there may be no nature destination on the planet quite as unique as the Galapagos Islands. And to be able to spend time with my enthusiastic son was an absolutely priceless experience that we will be talking about for decades to come.