Galapagos and Machu Picchu vacation in Ecuador and Peru

Environment

We are an active member of the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association, (IGTOA). In 2006, together we launched a traveler-fundraising program. As of 2012, our travelers have raised over $85,000 for Galapagos conservation projects. Funds are allocated to projects sponsored or recommended by partner organizations, such as WildAid, Charles Darwin Foundation, Rainforest Alliance, and, Galapagos Chamber of Tourism (CAPTURGAL), AGIPA (Galapagos Guides Association), and other Galapagos community-based organizations, such as schools and foundations. These projects range from introduced species control to community education programs. This program is designed not only to fund conservation efforts, but to educate all our travelers on the importance of protecting the Galapagos. Each traveler is supplied with the following information:

1.Detailed pamphlet on the challenges facing the Galapagos (including the role of tourism in the islands), why their donations are so important, and how travelers can be part of the solution.
2. Access to online information – further details about specific programs their contributions will be supporting
3. Inspection and Quarantine regulations for the Galapagos Islands, regulated by SICGAL
4. Dos and Don’ts of responsible travel
5. DVD/mini-documentary on issues of Galapagos survival

Community

We believe it is critical that local people be made active partners in developing a local tourism industry and driving conservation efforts. Money generated by tourism should stay in and directly benefit the community. This means hiring local guides, staying in locally owned hotels, and using the local transportation infrastructure.

The philosophy carries over to our successful micro-grant program, that provides funding for small, grassroots projects in the countries we visit. In Peru, we have awarded grants to reforestation projects, operations at a women's shelter, reconstruction of buildings, village irrigation systems, sanitation systems, and a conservation of traditional handicraft techniques. By traveling with us, you help to fund such projects.

Travelers will also visit Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco (CTTC). The CTTC is a non-profit organization established in 1996 to aid in the survival of Incan textile traditions and to provide support to weaving communities. Working with the Center, Quechua weavers and their families in the region of the former Incan capitol are engaged in skills-building, community networking and market development. For the past three years, 90% our Peru travelers have visited CTTC (Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco) when in the Sacred Valley and we provide annual donations to this organization.