Meet Ivonne Zumarraga, Managing Director at Golden Galapagos

From personal archive

Which expedition cruise company do you work for?

I’m the Managing Director of Golden Galapagos, a core brand under Golden Experiences & Travel. We offer luxury sustainable cruises in the Galapagos Islands, allowing travelers to experience the islands' extraordinary wildlife and landscapes.

What do you think sets your company apart from other expedition cruise operators?

Golden Galapagos is a women-led company. Our CEO and I are actively involved in shaping the company’s direction and maintaining close relationships with our clients. This approach ensures a personal connection, allowing us to always be in tune with their needs.

We combine luxury with sustainability, which has been our core focus since the beginning. By listening to feedback from stakeholders and guests, we've refined our premium hospitality while ensuring our commitment to the environment. As the only Ecuadorian operator with a carbon-neutral fleet in the Galapagos, we’re proud to lead the industry in this area. Moreover, a significant portion of our guests' payments goes towards supporting conservation projects and local community initiatives, making our guests agents of change committed to generating positive impacts during and after their travels.

Do you have a favourite destination that you always recommend to first-time expedition cruisers, and if so, which destination is it?

The Galapagos Islands are always my top recommendation. It’s a destination that perfectly combines wildlife encounters with unique landscapes, making it ideal for expedition cruising.

The islands offer a natural environment where wildlife roams freely in their ecosystems, creating unforgettable moments for our guests. Whether you’re snorkeling with sea lions or walking through volcanic landscapes, the Galapagos is a place that connects people to nature in a way few other destinations can.

If you could design your dream expedition cruise itinerary, what would it include?

Kicker Rock, Galapagos @Golden Galapagos

My dream expedition cruise itinerary includes a combination of Isabela and Fernandina Islands, some of the most pristine in the Galapagos, alongside Española, Genovesa, Bartolomé, or North Seymour.

These islands offer a range of ecosystems, from volcanic landscapes to marine life, and their combination gives guests a comprehensive experience of the archipelago’s beauty and diversity. The itinerary would vary depending on the catamaran, ensuring each guest experiences the dream destination in the most comfortable and enriching way possible.

What are your top three travel hacks for making the most out of an expedition cruise?

• Know before you go: Research the destination and make a list of what you hope to see. This makes your experience more fulfilling when you know what to look for in terms of wildlife or landscapes. Also, knowing a few key words in Spanish can make your trip smoother and enrich your experience.

  
  

• Be prepared: Make sure you pack the right gear for the environment. For example, in the Galapagos, certain islands have rocky terrains, so sturdy footwear is essential. You’ll also need UV-protective clothing for the sun and a windbreaker jacket.

  
  

• Ask questions: Reach out to your destination expert or account manager for anything you need to know—whether it’s about logistics, flight details, or any special recommendations.

Which lesser-known destination do you think deserves more attention from travelers?

While the Galapagos is globally renowned, Ecuador as a whole offers a wealth of diverse regions that are equally worth exploring. Beyond our famous islands, we offer travelers the opportunity to experience the unique ecosystems and cultures found across the country.

The Amazon Rainforest is a highlight, where guests can enjoy a luxury, sustainable experience at our La Selva Eco-Lodge, which upholds the same high standards as our Galapagos cruises. The highlands, just two hours from Quito, provide breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and access to iconic volcanoes like Cotopaxi. Guests can explore indigenous markets in Otavalo, rich in culture and handcrafts. We offer travelers the opportunity to visit these remarkable destinations with us.

If you could only visit one destination for the rest of your life, which would it be?

It would be the Galapagos Islands, which is why we focus on bringing awareness to this incredible destination. The islands offer it all—stunning landscapes, beaches, and wildlife.

But what makes the Galapagos truly special is the warmth of the people and the fresh, local produce—aspects of the destination we’re proud to support and promote. There’s something magical about the connection between the environment, the animals, and the local community.

The one thing you take with you wherever you travel:

I always carry a book with me. It’s a perfect companion during wait times or moments of quiet. A good book can transport you to different worlds while you’re still in the present, making the experience of travel even richer. Plus, it’s an ideal way to unwind and connect with yourself while on the go.