Expansion of Galapagos Marine Reserve

The Ecuadorian President, Guillermo Lasso, signed a decree called “Hermandad” (Brotherhood) to expand the Galapagos Marine reserve territory on Friday, January 14th, 2022. The ceremonial signing of the decree took place on board a ship in the Galapagos Islands with the participation of Ivan Duque, President of Colombia, as well as foreign ministers of Panama and Costa Rica. Former US president Bill Clinton, renowned marine biologist Doctor Sylvia Earle, and other dignitaries were also invited to witness this historic event.

The objective is to link marine protected areas; Costa Rica’s Coco´s, Panama´s Coiba, Colombia’s Malpelo, and the Galapagos Islands, which will create a sheltered migration route of endangered species such as whales, sea turtles, sharks, and rays. An increment of 60,000 sq km brings the Galapagos marine reserve to 193,000 sq km – a similar area as the state of South Dakota. Under the new area of the reserve, it will be divided in two equal areas. In one, fishing will be totally banned, while in the other only fishing without so-called long lines will be allowed.

An initiative that comes to reality after many years of hard work from many supporting organizations, NGOs, and authorities in the never-ending endeavor of the conservation of our oceans and protecting wildlife species.

This is great news for the conservation of marine wildlife and our guests may experience it safely through snorkeling, SCUBA diving programs in the enchanted islands.