Background/Question/Methods
In a world facing climate change, biotic invasions and biodiversity loss, ecological knowledge and science dissemination are increasingly important factors in determining the planet’s course of action. Personal descriptions and photographic records of “exotic” destinations can be a strong tool in drawing people’s attention to important ecological concepts. The fauna and flora of the Galapagos Islands are especially appealing for their unique history and characteristics. Giant cacti and tortoises, tree-like daisies, blue-footed boobies, and flightless cormorants are likely to capture the eye of even the most distracted or reluctant passerby.

Results/Conclusions

In a year of special remembrance of Charles Darwin, we describe some outreach activities that start from a trip to the Galapagos and can be used in local communities to introduce concepts about evolution, invasion ecology, environmental change and conservation biology. Ultimately, one can transform a vacation journey into a tool for society’s awareness of global biodiversity and the need for sustainable actions.