CONSERVATION

The itineraries of tourist boats are strictly regulated in order to avoid crowding at the visitor sites and some sites are periodically closed by the park authorities in order to allow them to recover from the impact of tourism. Certain sites are only open to smaller boats, and additionally limited to a maximum number of visits per month. The most-visited islands from Puerto Ayora are Plaza Sur, Santa Fe, Seymour Norte, Rabida, and Santiago. The more distant islands, but still visited are Espanola and Genovesa.

Conservation is a large issue in allowing tourists to see the island but still protecting the scientific processes. The Charles Darwin Station takes steps to make visitors aware of the impact they could make and the station gives opportunites for tourists to receive information and donate to the conservation of the island. Conservation practices are on the mind of everyone who is involved in doing business on the islands. These are the rules for any visitor who steps foot on the islands:
Do not touch any of the animals, birds or plants. Do not transfer sand or soil from one island to another. Do not leave litter anywhere; it is highly undesirable in a national park and is a safety and health hazard for wildlife. Do not take raw food on to the islands.