Charles Darwin Research Station: A Living Laboratory
Explore Galapagos conservation efforts at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Witness giant tortoises, learn about the islands' unique ecosystem, and support vital research.
Located in Puerto Ayora, the Charles Darwin Research Station is a hub for Galapagos conservation, education, and scientific research. Visitors can observe giant tortoises, learn about conservation efforts, and explore exhibits detailing the unique Galapagos ecosystem.
A brief summary to Charles Darwin Research Station
- Ave Charles Darwin 854, Puerto Ayora, 200350, EC
- +5935-252-6146
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.
- Bring water and sun protection, as the Galapagos Islands can get quite hot.
- The tour of the tortoise breeding center costs $10 and can only be paid in cash.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main pier in Puerto Ayora, head northeast along Avenida Charles Darwin. The Charles Darwin Research Station is about a 15-20 minute walk (approximately 1.5 km). Follow the street signs; the entrance to the station will be on your left.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Puerto Ayora. A taxi ride to the Charles Darwin Research Station typically costs $2-$4, depending on your starting location. The journey takes approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Public Transport
From the main bus terminal on Avenida Baltra in Puerto Ayora, take a public bus towards the Charles Darwin Research Station. The bus fare is around $0.50. The ride takes approximately 10 minutes, and the bus will drop you off at a stop a short walk from the research station.
Discover more about Charles Darwin Research Station
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scuba Iguana
0.6 km
Explore the Galapagos underwater world with Scuba Iguana, the most experienced dive center in Puerto Ayora. Daily diving tours available!
Lancha El Galapago I
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Galapagos Islands with expert tours from Lancha El Galapago I, your gateway to adventure and natural beauty.
Blu Galapagos
0.7 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort, culinary delights, and adventurous tours at Blu Galapagos in Puerto Ayora, the heart of the Galápagos Islands.
Almar
0.7 km
Experience fresh seafood and local flavors at Almar in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos, with stunning ocean views and a commitment to sustainability.
La Fortaleza de Haro
0.7 km
Experience the enchanting La Fortaleza de Haro, your cozy retreat in Puerto Ayora, Ecuador, the gateway to the stunning Galápagos Islands.
Samay Latin Art
0.7 km
Discover vibrant Latin American art in the Galapagos: contemporary paintings, traditional crafts, and unique cultural expressions.
El Pinzón
0.8 km
Discover comfort and charm at El Pinzón in Puerto Ayora, your perfect base for exploring the wonders of the Galápagos Islands.
La Casa de Judy
0.8 km
Experience comfort and convenience at La Casa de Judy in Puerto Ayora, your ideal base for exploring the Galapagos Islands' wonders.
Midori
0.8 km
Experience exquisite sushi at Midori in Puerto Ayora – where local flavors meet Japanese culinary artistry in the heart of the Galapagos.
Hostal Sueños Silvestres
0.8 km
A peaceful hostal in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos, offering comfortable accommodations and a convenient location for exploring the islands' wonders.
Galarous island apartments
0.9 km
Comfortable apartments in Puerto Ayora, ideal for exploring the Galapagos Islands' unique wildlife and stunning landscapes.
El Muelle de Darwin
0.9 km
Experience Ecuadorian flavors with waterfront views at El Muelle de Darwin, a top dining destination in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos.
Galapagos Morning Glory
0.9 km
Experience the unique charm of Galapagos Morning Glory Hostel, where adventure meets comfort in the heart of Puerto Ayora, Galapagos Islands.
Bahía Mar
0.9 km
Experience fresh Ecuadorian seafood with stunning ocean views at Bahía Mar in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos. A culinary delight!
Maidith Galapagos Inn
0.9 km
Experience Galapagos hospitality at Maidith Inn: comfortable rooms, a refreshing pool, and personalized service in Puerto Ayora.
Unmissable attractions to see
Laboratorio de Invertebrados Terrestres
0.2 km
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Playa de la Estacion
0.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Playa de la Estacion, Puerto Ayora's hidden beach paradise perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.
Caamaño Islet
1.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Caamañó Islet, a hidden paradise in Ecuador perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Academy Bay
1.1 km
Explore Academy Bay, a serene coastal paradise in Ecuador, where stunning beaches meet vibrant marine life and unforgettable adventures await.
San Francisco boardwalk
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant marine life, stunning ocean views, and local culture at the San Francisco Boardwalk in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos.
Playa los alemanes
1.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Playa los Alemanes, a hidden beach gem in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Nymphs Lagoon
1.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Nymphs Lagoon in Puerto Ayora, a tranquil oasis perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers alike.
Galapagos Up las Grietas
1.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Las Grietas, a stunning natural wonder in the Galapagos, perfect for swimming and snorkeling amidst unique rock formations.
Castillo Galapagos
1.8 km
Experience the charm of Castillo Galapagos, a hotel that combines castle-like elegance with the adventure of the Galapagos Islands.
El Mirador de Los Tuneles
3.0 km
Experience the stunning geological formations and rich biodiversity at El Mirador de Los Tuneles in Puerto Ayora, Galápagos Islands.
Tortuga Bay Beach
3.8 km
Explore Tortuga Bay Beach in the Galápagos for stunning vistas, rich wildlife, and unforgettable experiences on this pristine paradise.
Tortuga Bay
4.2 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Tortuga Bay in the Galápagos Islands, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Playa Peninsula
5.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Playa Peninsula, a pristine beach in Ecuador, perfect for relaxation, swimming, and stunning sunsets.
Galapagos frontier
6.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife of Galapagos Frontier, a premier nature preserve in Santa Cruz, Ecuador, for unforgettable adventures.
El Trapiche Ecológico Galápagos
7.3 km
Immerse yourself in the sustainable beauty of Galápagos at El Trapiche Ecológico, where eco-farming meets delicious local cuisine.
Essential places to dine
Anca Restaurante Galapagos
0.7 km
Experience the essence of Ecuadorian cuisine at Anca Restaurante Galapagos - where every dish tells a story.
Fraileana Food Park
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Ecuador at Fraileana Food Park, where culinary delights await in the heart of Puerto Ayora.
La Cevicheria by Isla Grill
0.9 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian ceviche at La Cevicheria by Isla Grill in Puerto Ayora—where fresh seafood meets local flavor.
Isla Grill
1.0 km
Experience authentic Galapagos flavors at Isla Grill in Puerto Ayora - where fresh ingredients meet vibrant atmosphere.
Burger House
1.0 km
Savor gourmet burgers in the heart of Puerto Ayora at Burger House – where flavor meets fun in the Galapagos Islands.
PLAZA EL JARDÍN GALÁPAGOS
1.0 km
Experience vibrant dining at Plaza El Jardín Galápagos with fresh local flavors and tropical ambiance in Puerto Ayora.
Lemon & Coffee
1.0 km
Discover delicious local flavors at Lemon & Coffee in Puerto Ayora - where every meal is a taste of paradise.
Nazca Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience exquisite fusion cuisine at Nazca Restaurant - where Ecuadorian, Peruvian & Spanish flavors come together in Puerto Ayora.
TJ
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Puerto Ayora at TJ - where culinary excellence meets tropical charm.
Galapagos Steak & Wine
1.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Galapagos Steak & Wine, where every dish tells a story of freshness and flavor.
Los Moros
1.2 km
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Trattoria de Pippo
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria de Pippo in Puerto Ayora, where delicious flavors meet the breathtaking beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
Lo & Lo
1.2 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Lo & Lo in Puerto Ayora – where every dish tells a story of local tradition and flavor.
Rosy Mar
1.3 km
Experience the authentic taste of Ecuador at Rosy Mar in Puerto Ayora - where tradition meets flavor.
Playa Sol Y Mar
1.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Coffee Galápagos
0.6 km
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Chocolápagos
0.7 km
Discover the exquisite world of handcrafted chocolates at Chocolápagos, Puerto Ayora's premier chocolate shop, where flavors and aromas come to life.
Iguanas Bananas
0.7 km
Discover unique Galapagos crafts and souvenirs at Iguanas Bananas, a boutique treasure in Puerto Ayora, perfect for travelers seeking local artistry.
Galapagos Jewelry Official
0.8 km
Discover handcrafted jewelry inspired by the natural beauty and culture of the Galapagos Islands at Galapagos Jewelry in Puerto Ayora.
1835 Restaurant & Coffee
0.8 km
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Aymara Art & Jewelry
0.8 km
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Tatoo Adventure Gear Galápagos
0.9 km
Explore the Galápagos Islands with top-notch outdoor gear from Tatoo Adventure Gear, your go-to for biking and camping essentials.
Ferreteria Bodega Blanca S. A.
0.9 km
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I Go Gringo
0.9 km
Experience the flavors of the Galápagos Islands at I Go Gringo, your local grocery store in Puerto Ayora, offering unique local and international products.
593 Origins
0.9 km
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Galería Exótico Ecuador - Fair Trade
0.9 km
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DARWIN+WOLF
0.9 km
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Opuntia Ceramics
0.9 km
Explore Opuntia Ceramics in Puerto Ayora for unique handmade pottery inspired by the Galapagos' natural beauty.
Patas Azules Socks
1.0 km
Shop at Patas Azules Socks in Puerto Ayora for unique, vibrant, and comfortable socks inspired by the beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
Santeria Tattoo Shop Galapagos
1.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bugan Villa
0.7 km
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Darwin's Lounge
0.7 km
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AYORA Resto Wine
0.7 km
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Bowl Acai Bar
0.8 km
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Fernandina Lounge & Bar
0.9 km
Experience the flavors of the Galapagos at Fernandina Lounge & Bar, where grilled delights and refreshing cocktails await in Puerto Ayora.
bongo bar
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bongo Bar in Puerto Ayora, where refreshing cocktails and lively music bring the Galapagos spirit to life.
La discoteca de Wilfrido
1.0 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at La discoteca de Wilfrido, Puerto Ayora's premier karaoke bar, where unforgettable memories await every night.
Cervecería Artesanal Cactácea Drink
1.1 km
Experience the best of local craft beers in a vibrant setting at Cervecería Artesanal Cactácea Drink, Puerto Ayora's hidden gem.
Rincón del Alma
1.1 km
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Alessandro
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Galapagos at Alessandro Grill in Puerto Ayora, where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.
Al Paso
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Al Paso, a premier grill restaurant in Puerto Ayora, serving authentic Ecuadorian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Gelato Bar
1.2 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Gelato Bar in Puerto Ayora, where creamy gelato and rich espresso await amidst the beauty of the Galápagos Islands.
REPTILIA GALAPAGOS BEER STATION
1.2 km
Experience the unique flavors of Galapagos at Reptilia Beer Station, where craft beers and local culture meet in a cozy brewpub atmosphere.
booths and cyber
1.3 km
Discover Booths and Cyber, a vibrant bar in Puerto Ayora, offering a unique blend of local drinks and a lively atmosphere for travelers.
Galapagos Beer Company - Boobies Craft Beer
1.3 km
Discover the flavors of the Galapagos at Galapagos Beer Company, a brewpub offering unique craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere in Puerto Ayora.
