Walk behind the scenes at the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora with a certified naturalist, meeting the giant Galápagos tortoises and the breeding programme that brought the species back from the brink.
What to expect
Enter the working research complex where the conservation of the Galápagos tortoise subspecies has been championed for over 60 years. Come face-to-face with giant tortoises that pre-date Darwin's own visit, watch hatchlings no larger than a fist in the breeding corrals, and explore the Van Straelen Exhibition Centre for context on volcanic geology and endemism. A certified naturalist guide connects every exhibit to the living ecosystem outside — making science viscerally personal. The station is a 10-minute taxi or water-taxi hop from Puerto Ayora dock.
Good to know
Puerto Ayora is the main town on Santa Cruz — a short water-taxi ride from Academy Bay anchorages. Aim for an early-morning visit before heat and day-trip groups arrive. Allow 2–2.5 hours. Pre-arrange a certified private guide via a licensed operator; walk-in access to the grounds is free but guided depth is transformative.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Dragon Hill (santa Cruz) — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.