Tortuamigos: A Fun and Educational Way to Protect Galápagos | Travel News

School vacations provide a valuable opportunity for children and teenagers to explore, discover, and connect with nature—essential factors in nurturing environmental awareness and responsibility in future generations. With this in mind, Galápagos Conservancy created “Tortuamigos– Move and Connect!”, an innovative initiative that blends education with play. More than just a way to occupy free time, this program equips young participants with hands-on knowledge about preserving one of the planet’s most remarkable ecosystems: the Galápagos Islands.

Learning Through Experience

 

At the core of Tortuamigos is experiential learning, ensuring that children not only gain knowledge but also actively participate in conservation efforts. Each activity is carefully designed to inspire action and deepen their bond with nature. Led by experienced educators and international volunteers, the program fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for the environment.

“Aimed at children and youth in Galápagos, this initiative engages around 100 participants, helping them strengthen their relationship with nature while drawing inspiration from one of the archipelago’s most iconic creatures: the giant tortoise,” explains Jenny Macías, education advisor.

Through frequent outdoor excursions, participants explore their natural surroundings, learn about the crucial role tortoises play in the ecosystem, and practice essential conservation techniques. The program operates in collaboration with the local education sector, the Bellavista and Tomás de Berlanga Parish Governments, and the Galápagos National Park Directorate (GNPD), ensuring a well-rounded, interdisciplinary approach.

Engaging Families and the Community

 

More than just a vacation activity, Tortuamigos offers children a meaningful way to connect with nature. Parents take pride in seeing their children develop a strong sense of environmental responsibility, while the program also strengthens community ties by involving families and educators in the shared goal of preserving Galápagos’ natural heritage.

Beyond fostering a love for nature, Tortuamigos empowers young participants to become future conservation advocates. Through hands-on activities, they develop essential skills such as observation, teamwork, and problem-solving—equipping them to tackle environmental challenges both locally and globally.

Impact and Future Goals

 

We see Tortuamigos as a driver of cultural change, leaving a lasting impact beyond the vacation period. So far, the environmental education efforts have sparked a growing interest in conservation and increased local community participation. The program has become a model for environmental education, integrating interactive workshops and play-based learning to engage and inspire young minds.

Looking ahead, we aim to expand the program and enhance the teaching methods to create an even more impactful learning experience. By implementing monitoring and evaluation tools, we will measure long-term effects and refine the strategies to maximize conservation education outcomes.

At Galápagos Conservancy, we believe education is a powerful tool for ecosystem protection. Through Tortuamigos, we are shaping the next generation of conservation leaders—ensuring they develop the knowledge, sensitivity, and motivation to safeguard the Galápagos Islands for generations to come.