Sustainable Tourism in Galapagos – Helping preserve the islands while supporting their population

Ecuador and Galapagos

By Tom Damon

Long time Southwind in-country partner, Metropolitan Touring (MT), is a leader in sustainable tourism initiatives helping Ecuadorians preserve their natural wonders through ecotourism and park management. Every visitor to Galapagos plays an important role in helping to support responsible tourism for generations of future travelers to the archipelago.

Southwind caught up with adventure travel pioneer Francisco Dousdebés who heads up Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability for MT. A commitment to carbon neutrality is a cornerstone of the company’s values.

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As more countries open in South America – this is a great time to plan a trip!

Ecuador and Galapagos

By Tom Damon


Looking for an international adventure get-a-way this winter relatively close to home? Sunny Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are open to visitors. Southwind is receiving bookings for 2021 to one of the safest countries to visit during the pandemic. Continue reading →

Quito: Pushing Culinary Boundaries in South America

Ecuador and Galapagos

by: Leah Celler & Luis Felipa

Ecuador has one of the most distinctive ecosystems in the world, from the lowland Amazon rainforest up to the Andes Mountains and all the way to the coast with the stunning Galapagos Islands. This ecological diversity provides an incredible selection of produce, meats, vegetables, fruits and fish all found year-round, in the country’s culinary scene. Continue reading →

New Family Adventure Explores Ecuador’s Top Wildlife Destinations

Ecuador and Galapagos, press release

Southwind Launches Family-friendly Itinerary in the Amazon and Galápagos

Small but mega-biodiverse Ecuador is becoming a wildlife mecca in South America. Its eastern slope intersects with the mighty Amazon rainforest, home to 10% of the known species on the planet. Its Galápagos Islands form the best conserved tropical archipelago in the world, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Condé Nast Traveler Awards Southwind Adventures’ Tom Damon as 2013 World’s Top Travel Specialist

Ecuador and Galapagos, Patagonia, Peru, press release

Southwind’s own Tom Damon has been awarded status as Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist. Since 2005, Tom has been recognized on this exclusive list for his mastery in planning trips of a lifetime to Peru, Ecuador, the Galápagos, and Patagonia. His nine consecutive years make him the longest-standing Top Travel Specialist for South America.
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Hotels add variety to cruise ship travel in the Galápagos

Ecuador and Galapagos

Since the onset of tourism in Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands in the 1970’s, small cruise ships have reigned as the classic mode for touring the unique archipelago. Nowadays, however, new and sophisticated hotels are making their debut as a worthy addition to the cruise experience. Galápagos travelers can now enjoy a land-based stay or a combination of cruise and hotel for the best of both worlds. Continue reading →