About naturalists

They are university graduates and have completed a comprehensive training course conducted by the Galapagos National Park Service. Unlike typical bus tour guides, naturalists have a love for and a deep knowledge of their subject - and they share it with you enthusiastically, not rotely.

The three official grades of naturalists are I, II, and III. The first has the least qualifications and experience and works on the lower quality boats. The third is the most proficient. He or she works on the higher quality boats.

The difference between being guided by a top-grade naturalist and one who has not yet made that grade makes a profound difference in your Galapagos experience, understanding, and take-home knowledge. So be sure to inquire about the level of the naturalist(s) that will be on the boat before you book.

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Sunburn

It’s easy to get sunburned because the sun is directly overhead. This means there is less atmosphere to filter out the damaging rays. Use a high-factor sun screen. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or a long-billed cap. If the latter doesn't have a neck flap, wear a cotton neck scarf.

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Smoking

A Galapagos cruise is not smoker friendly. Onboard, you can smoke only in designated outdoor decks. And you cannot smoke on a Zodiac or at a visitors site.

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Click for more tips

More helpful tips - FIRST PAGE

More helpful tips - PAGE THREE

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Best 5 islands
Top 5 land & shore wildlife
Top 5 birds
Top 5 marine life

Best Galapagos ships by category
Boat class - pros & cons
Itinerary tips
Cost and booking tips

Best time to go
Getting there tips
Packing tips
Snorkeling tips
Diving tips
Some more helpful tips

Celebrity Xpedition
Charles Darwin - Brief bio
Interesting Galapagos facts

World's Top 100 Wonders

World's Top 1000 Wonders

Site map

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Ecuador Ministry of Tourism

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