Galápagos Marine Reserve, Marine reserve in Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Marine Reserve is a large ocean area surrounding the archipelago that protects different marine animals and their underwater homes. The zone includes areas with different ocean currents and temperatures that support a variety of fish, sea turtles, sharks, and other sea creatures.

The reserve was created in 1998, covering about 198,000 km² of water roughly 1,000 km from mainland Ecuador. In November 2021, President Guillermo Lasso announced a 50% expansion, adding 60,000 km² northeast of the islands as the Hermandad Marine Reserve, which links to the protected area around Cocos Island.

Local communities and visitors view this protected area as a place where endangered species like sea lions and penguins live in their natural surroundings. The waters around the islands show the constant interaction between wildlife and the harsh ocean environment.

To explore the waters, visitors should book guided snorkeling and diving tours in specific zones where they can see sea turtles, sharks, and fish. The best experience depends on good weather and comfort in the water, so you should consider your abilities and sea conditions before booking.

In November 2021, President Guillermo Lasso announced a 50% expansion of the reserve, adding about 60,000 km² northeast of the islands as the Hermandad Marine Reserve. This new sector protects submarine mountains and is designed to connect with the protected area around Cocos Island.