Quito.– An Australian tourist was injured after being attacked by a shark while engaging in water activities in the Galapagos Islands, one of Ecuador’s main tourist destinations and nature reserves, local authorities reported this Friday.
The incident occurred in an area frequented by visitors for snorkeling and marine wildlife observation. According to preliminary reports, the woman suffered injuries to one of her limbs after being bitten by the animal.
Following the attack, emergency personnel and tour guides who were at the scene provided first aid to the visitor, who was subsequently transported to a medical center to receive specialized care.
The authorities indicated that the tourist is out of danger and is recovering favorably, although she remains under medical observation due to the injuries sustained during the incident.
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The Galapagos National Park Directorate indicated that these types of attacks are infrequent in the archipelago, recognized worldwide for its biodiversity and for housing various species of sharks that are part of the protected marine ecosystem.
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Specialists explained that encounters between sharks and humans are usually unusual on the islands, where thousands of tourists participate in diving and snorkeling activities annually without any serious incidents being recorded.
Following the incident, authorities began an assessment of the conditions in the area where the attack occurred and reiterated to tour operators and visitors the importance of complying with the established safety protocols for aquatic activities.
The Galápagos Islands, declared a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, constitute one of the most important destinations for ecological tourism in Latin America and receive tens of thousands of visitors each year, drawn by the richness of their wildlife and unique ecosystems.
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As investigations continue to determine the exact circumstances of the event, authorities are maintaining surveillance in the area and assure that tourist activities continue to take place normally under strict security measures.
