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Rolf Wittmer Turismo Galápagos Cia. Ltda.

www.rwittmer.com

Providing quality service to clients since 1982, Rolf Wittmer Turismo Galápagos offers excursions in one of the most biologically diverse locations in the world.  Continuing the tradition of environmental stewardship established by its founder Rolf Wittmer, the company is a model tour boat operator, working to protect the unique environment of the Galápagos Islands.  

Comprised of 13 major islands off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Archipelago is home to many famous and rare species, including the Galápagos tortoise, from which the islands take their name, the marine iguana, and 13 endemic varieties of finch, the subjects of Charles Darwin’s historic studies in the 1830’s.  The islands are a national park, and the surrounding waters are a declared marine reserve.  Both have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rolf Wittmer Turismo Galápagos is certified by SmartVoyager, a certification program offered by Rainforest Alliance that establishes standards for maintenance and operation of tour boats, disposal of waste, and health and welfare of workers and local communities.  The company is also pursuing International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9000 and 14000 certification, awarded to companies that meet standards for quality and environmental management respectively.

Rolf Wittmer Turismo Galápagos maintains a relationship with the local NGO Conservación y Desarrollo, which monitors the company to assure compliance with Smart Voyager standards.  The company is also establishing its own NGO, Fundación de Desarrollo Integral para Galápagos Rolf Wittmer, which seeks to promote sustainable development in Ecuador through education, training, and support of ecotourism activities.   

EcoEnterprises Fund co-financed this investment with the project principals, Ecologic Finance, Conservation International, and a local bank.

Investing in companies. Investing in communities. Investing in conservation.

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