Immerse yourself in the world of conservation and scientific discovery by visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station in the Galapagos Islands, where you can witness groundbreaking research and the preservation of unique wildlife species that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution. They even has a stuffed tortoise!
Located just outside of the Puerto Ayora’s city center is the Charles Darwin Research Station, a biological research station and home to the archipelago’s unique wildlife. The Charles Darwin Foundation runs this attraction and is suited for visitors of any age.
The research station is home to iguanas, tortoises, and other animals that only exist in the Galapagos Islands, nowhere else on Earth. The logically organized exhibits have marked paths and excellent documentation of each species making exploration of the facility a breeze.
Lonesome George is a popular area of the tortoise exhibit. Lonesome George was the last remaining Pinta Island tortoise that died in 2012, wiping that species from existence. He is taxidermied and on display in a climate controlled room to serve as an icon for the critically important conservation efforts that are ongoing.
Environmental conversation and sustainability are the research station’s primary objective along with organizing a fantastic destination to explore.
The researchers of the Charles Darwin Research Station are an incredibly passionate group focused on preservation of the Galapagos for future generations.
Through the viewfinder
Charles Darwin Research Station, Santa Cruz Island 
Giant tortoise at Darwin Research Station 
Giant tortoise on galapagos islands 
Santa Cruz island | Galapagos Islands 
Galapagos Island yellow iguana
Charles Darwin Research Station Uncensored
While some may consider this destination a zoo, it isn’t. The site’s core focus, an what sets this place apart is the dedication, research and conservation of the animals that exist throughout the volcanic archipelago and no where else on planet Earth. It’s up to the handful of scientists to preserve and conserve the habitat for these animals to exist for generations to come.
The private sanctuaries give visitors a great look at the many different types of tortoises and reptiles throughout the park. While similar in looks, they have evolved and adapted to the locality of their home island.
Everything you need to know before you visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
CURRENT WEATHER
scattered clouds
AIR QUALITY
Moderate
GPS COORDINATIONS
-0.7422, -90.3042
HIGH SEASON (MOST EXPENSIVE)
July – August
December
LOW SEASON (LEAST EXPENSIVE)
January – June
September – November
