The beginning of a new year is always exciting and full of possibilities, even more so when it comes with positive news for the Galapagos, Ecuador, and conservation. Awards, recognitions and an updated digital travel requirement are the highlights these first weeks of the year. Let’s get to it!
Digital Submission for the Biosafety Declaration Form
The Galapagos Biosafety and Quarantine Control Agency requires all visitors to complete a Biosafety Declaration Form before arriving in the Galapagos. This process was previously completed using a paper form, but as of this year, the form must be submitted online only.
Important:
- It is strongly recommended to complete it the night before your Galapagos flight, although you can submit it up to two days before your arrival in Galapagos.
- After submission, you will receive a code via email.
- The confirmation code must be shown at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil before you check-in at the airline counter and again upon arrival in the Islands.
This form helps prevent the introduction of invasive species and protects the Galapagos’ ecosystem.
Learn more about travel procedures and requirements.
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The Galapagos National Park Receives a Conservation Award
At the end of December 2025, Regenerative Travel presented its Conservation of the Year award to the Galapagos National Park for its work in responsible tourism management within an ecologically significant destination. This recognition reinforces the importance of conservation efforts on a local and global scale.
Source: Regenerative Travel
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The Chocó-Andino Corridor is One of the Best Tourist Destinations for 2026 as per The Wall Street Journal
Renowned for its amazing biodiversity, the corridor is located on the west side of the Andes and was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2018. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts are drawn to this lush cloud forest, where moderate and active adventures can be enjoyed, as well as local cultural immersions with the ecofarming communities.
Source: Primicias
Will Smith Visits Ecuador for National Geographic’s Pole to Pole Series
Known for his film, television, and music career, Will Smith shows his adventurous side in his new docuseries, Pole to Pole. Across seven episodes, Will travels from the South Pole to the North Pole, exploring diverse landscapes and cultures.
Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest is featured in two episodes. In one, scientists investigate how a giant tarantula’s venom could potentially contribute to life-saving medical advances. In another, Will travels alongside a Waorani elder in search of a giant green anaconda.
Pole to Pole premieres this month on National Geographic and streaming platforms Disney+ and Hulu.
Source: El Universo
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Ready to unleash your wild side on an Amazon adventure or explore the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands? Talk to one of our trip advisors and let us help you design a trip that showcases the very best of Ecuador this 2026!