We’d Love To Tell You Our Story.
Over 20 years ago Galapagos AlterNATIVE was created as a way to allow visitors to experience the Galapagos Islands through the eyes of locals. It all started when Javier (a dive guide from Galapagos) and Jill (a teacher from the US) found they had a lot of friends and family wanting to visit the Galapagos Islands but they were not interested in staying on live aboard yachts. Javier & Jill began using their local knowledge and connections to set up personalized land-based experiences for friends and loved ones. As word spread, they launched Galapagos Alternative which was one of, if not the first company to focus on personalized, land-based Galapagos vacations.
Over the decades we have fostered strong relationships with our island-based operators and have developed a network of the best quality, professional and reliable options in the islands. We are still a small tour agency owned and operated by a couple of locals with the help of family and friends. We bridge the gap between travelers and local knowledge. We love to share the Galapagos islands not just as a destination — but as our home. The people of the Galapagos Islands are some of its greatest treasures and we hope to introduce you to them as our guests. Our main team is right in the heart of the archipelago on Santa Cruz Island. We have local representatives on Isabela Island and San Cristobal Island, as well, so you always have a local connection to call on for anything and everything while island-hopping.
We find it a great honor and privilege to be in a position to share the true Galapagos Islands and to make sure everything goes as planned, or even better! You have our support and local knowledge from the initial contact with one of our Itinerary Specialists to the moment we hug you goodbye.
We love to show you our beloved Galapagos Islands – from the inside.
Javier Co-owner
Javier’s family has a rich history in the Galapagos Islands with members integrated in to many areas of the Galapagos. Javier developed his comprehensive understanding and expertise of the islands as a Galapagos Islands resident. He deeply appreciates and respects the ecology and geology of the Galapagos islands. Javier worked for years in the Galapagos Marine Reserve as a PADI certified Dive Master and guide. He prides himself on being able to select quality naturalists to be your guides, and tour boat operators that share the company’s ethos of responsible practices.
Jill Co-owner
Jill was born in the United States and first came to the Galapagos Islands as a volunteer teacher (for 3 months) over a decade ago. Her special connection with the islands and especially the communities is what compels her to share these transformative experiences with travelers. Sustainable and conscientious travel is her way of life and Jill dedicates much of her time to local social causes and World Schooling with her daughters.
Our friendly & professional Galapagos Island Ambassadors
Javier & Clara – Santa Cruz
Emilie and Junior – Isabela
Johan and Cristina – San Cristobal
Our Itinerary Specialists helping to create your customized Galapagos experience:
Lauren
Susanna
Sabine
The team making the magic happen behind the curtain:
Carlos
Cristina
Amin
Lida
Johan
Jill
Giving Back to the Galápagos Communities
As residents, friends, and parents in the Galápagos Islands, we are deeply committed to giving back to the communities where we live and work. At Galapagos Alternative, we proudly support a range of local organizations that promote sustainable, ethical tourism, strengthen social development, and preserve the unique environment of the islands.
Together, these initiatives help build a stronger, more resilient, and sustainable Galápagos community. By supporting them you can help ensure that the culture, people, and environment of the Galapagos Islands continues to thrive for generations to come.
El Mangle Agile Learning Community
An alternative school that our children attend and love. We facilitate donations from our guests that wish to support by supplying books and supplies. Contributions promote child-directed learning, empowering the future leaders and caretakers of the Galápagos Islands to think creatively, act independently, and live intentionally.
Galapagos Infinito
A local initiative that gives every child in the Galápagos the opportunity to explore and know their islands. Many local kids have never set foot on a boat or visited other islands because tourism has made such experiences inaccessible. With Galapagos Infinito’s oceanic classroom sailboat, children can connect with, fall in love with, and learn to protect their Galapagos resources.
Our Community Library
A vital public space that had been abandoned by local authorities and has slowly been revived by naturalist guides and community members. The library provides free access to quality books and educational resources, giving children and families a safe space to learn, explore, and grow.
Our Little Galapagos Sailing School
A community-driven organization that teaches local children the nearly forgotten art of sailing. Many local kids have never sailed or explored their own islands due to limited access and tourism restrictions. This school relies on donations and volunteers to keep the tradition alive, inspiring children to connect with the ocean and protect the islands while learning valuable skills.
Galapagos Alternative Coffee
Supports local farmers who can no longer afford to harvest their own coffee. The volcanic soils and microclimates of the Galápagos produce an exotic, high-quality coffee. By bringing home a bag of Galapagos Alternative Coffee, you support local farmers, sustainable agriculture, and the preservation of the islands’ unique environment.