Charles Darwin Research Station
Charles Darwin Research Station
Charles Darwin Research Station
4
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Full view
About
Headed by a team of over 150 scientists, educators, research volunteers, and support staff, the Charles Darwin Research Station is dedicated to preserving the Galapagos ecosystems through science and conservation. Visitors can explore the "must-see" Exhibition Hall, where over 60 years of research in the archipelago is showcased, along with natural history collections, rotating exhibits, and a gift/donation point. Special "behind the scenes" tours of the scientific facilities and extensive Natural History Collections can be arranged in advance with the Station's scientists. Access to the Research Station is free and is located 500 meters beyond the Galapagos National Park's "Ruta de la Tortuga," which includes the Fausto Llerena tortoise breeding center and the display of Lonesome George. As an independent NGO, the Charles Darwin Research Station relies on donations to support its work.
Puerto Ayora, Ecuador
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Charles Darwin Research Station
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
3,393 reviews
Excellent
1,324
Very good
1,055
Average
744
Poor
207
Terrible
63
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Peter R
Dartford, UK1,382 contributions
Sep 2024 • Family
The research station is about a 15 minute walk from the harbour past the fish market. As a previous reviewer pointed out, if you want to look around the main area of the centre where the tortoises are you need to get a guide outside the centre before you will be allowed in, at a cost of $10. This seems such a strange way to operate and should be more clearly advertised. We had walked all the way to the research centre before discovering this and so had to walk all the way back to the entrance to get a guide. Our guide was very informative about the centre and showed us around explaining as we went. There is an airconditioned room where they keep the stuffed figure of Lonesome George. There is also a small onsite museum, shop and a small café. Once your guide leaves you there are a couple of self guided walks to a small beach area which are worth doing.
Written November 27, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Southendwesthamfan
Southend-on-Sea, UK1,087 contributions
Feb 2025 • Family
If you're staying in Puerto Ayora then you can walk here. As you approach the entrance gate there is a small 2 storey building with a gift shop and tour company based in it. It's here you will be approached by guides for a tour, however this is a tour to the the tortoise breeding centre. The visit to the research centre is actually free. As you walk up the road you wills a fork to the breeding centre , but just walk straight on. There is a small office on the way where a guard was sitting and you can get your passport stamped with some Galapagos stamps. There is also a similar stamp in the main exhibition centre when you enter.
The Exhibition Hall as the skeleton of a whale and various exhibits and reading material. There is also a souvenir shop where you can by some nice souvenirs labelled with the Darwin Research Centre. Attached to the research centre is a place to eat and cool down with some ice cream. There are two small beaches in the area which you will pass as you walk to the centre. Playa de La Estacion is a small sandy beach but was quite crowded when we went on a Sunday.
Given the significance. of Darwin t these islands it's worth a visit but just don't expect a lot of detailed information about Darwin, this is much more about the research the organisation is doing on the islands.
The Exhibition Hall as the skeleton of a whale and various exhibits and reading material. There is also a souvenir shop where you can by some nice souvenirs labelled with the Darwin Research Centre. Attached to the research centre is a place to eat and cool down with some ice cream. There are two small beaches in the area which you will pass as you walk to the centre. Playa de La Estacion is a small sandy beach but was quite crowded when we went on a Sunday.
Given the significance. of Darwin t these islands it's worth a visit but just don't expect a lot of detailed information about Darwin, this is much more about the research the organisation is doing on the islands.
Written March 2, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DANIEL CAIZACHANA
Quito, Ecuador18 contributions
Feb 2025 • Friends
The experience inside the charles darwin station teaches me a lot about the differences between different types of turtles and also the topics of how they try to take care of these animals during their growth so as not to have problems with their extinction. Our Guide also invited us to go to the room where is the lonely George a beautiful to be able to know this animal above all represents the history of a species that is already extinct in our country. But that is if I attach that different topics of changes must be made in the sense that we must improve a little what would be the information of the arch our guide knew how to say that many of this information was outdated but he could tell us many things that helped us understand about the subject of the life of the turtles
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Written February 5, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sara S
5 contributions
Sep 2024 • Couples
We are on a trip to the island at the end of a guided 14 day tour. We found this spot easily accessible but poorly advertised. It is a fascinating spot that is well maintained and worth the cost of the guided tour to see tortise hatchlings up to full grown tortoises. Museum, gift shop, canteen. 2 beach access areas. Could easily spend a couple of hours here.
Written September 21, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Margaret W
San Francisco, CA17 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
My partner and I stumbled upon this gem during a free day on the island, and I’m thrilled we did! Opting for the $10 tour turned out to be a fantastic decision. We got an up-close look at the turtle rehabilitation efforts, learned fascinating island trivia, and received a valuable reminder about the importance of ecological preservation. After the tour, we leisurely strolled along the beach, got iced tea from the café, and explored the museum. It was a serene and refreshing experience, offering a perfect respite from the island heat. Though we spent a few blissful hours there, it’s definitely doable in less time if you’re pressed for it. It also seemed great for kids!
Written March 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eileen108
Mount Shasta, CA5,982 contributions
Dec 2024 • Friends
Wonderful place! Perfect combo of outdoor sights, birds, tortoises from different islands, displays with interesting and new information about the islands, and even Lonesome George. Bring your passport and they will put a stamp in it, in the gift store!
Written March 1, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jessica Isabel
Quito, Ecuador22 contributions
Feb 2025 • Friends
The station serves as a base for scientists conducting research in the Galapagos for the exploration of endemic species of giant turtles. This turtle breeding center helps the preservation of these little animals. This is an enriching journey of information about the importance of conservation. The legendary body of the reclusive George is preserved in a cold chamber in the exhibition hall.
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Written February 4, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarahi Chiriboga
11 contributions
Jan 2025 • Friends
Charles Darwin Station is a place that struck me deeply. Not only because of the natural beauty that surrounds it, but also because of the important work that goes into it. From the moment I set foot on the station, I felt immersed in a science and conservation environment.
Closeness to the Giant Galapagos: It was amazing to be able to watch these majestic animals so closely! Its size and tranquility made me feel as if I were in the presence of prehistoric creatures.
Learning about evolution: The information presented at the interpretation centre was very clear and didactic. I learned a lot about Darwin’s theory of evolution and how it applies to the unique species of the Galapagos.
The passion of the guides: The station guides are very passionate about their work and the conservation of the islands. His explanations were very interesting and conveyed his enthusiasm for nature.
Connection with nature: Walking along the paths of the station and observing the native flora and fauna was a very relaxing and enriching experience. I felt connected to nature on a very deep level.
My visit to Charles Darwin Station was an unforgettable experience. It allowed me to learn a lot about science and conservation, and also connected me to the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands. I recommend everyone visiting the islands to take the time to visit the resort.
Closeness to the Giant Galapagos: It was amazing to be able to watch these majestic animals so closely! Its size and tranquility made me feel as if I were in the presence of prehistoric creatures.
Learning about evolution: The information presented at the interpretation centre was very clear and didactic. I learned a lot about Darwin’s theory of evolution and how it applies to the unique species of the Galapagos.
The passion of the guides: The station guides are very passionate about their work and the conservation of the islands. His explanations were very interesting and conveyed his enthusiasm for nature.
Connection with nature: Walking along the paths of the station and observing the native flora and fauna was a very relaxing and enriching experience. I felt connected to nature on a very deep level.
My visit to Charles Darwin Station was an unforgettable experience. It allowed me to learn a lot about science and conservation, and also connected me to the natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands. I recommend everyone visiting the islands to take the time to visit the resort.
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Written February 5, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shirley M
24 contributions
Jan 2025 • Friends
Visiting the Charles Darwin Science Station, located on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, is a fascinating experience for any nature and conservation lover. This research and preservation center is managed by the Charles Darwin Foundation and works in conjunction with the Galapagos National Park to protect the unique biodiversity of the archipelago. Charles Darwin Science Station is a must-see destination in the Galapagos. Not only does it allow you to get a close look at the extraordinary fauna of the islands, but it also raises awareness of the importance of conservation. If you visit Santa Cruz, you can’t stop including this tour in your itinerary.
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Written February 6, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Phillip Dettleff
Santiago, Chile3,773 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
Charles Darwin Station is a place of conservation and study of the island's animals. They have many turtles, both small and large, with the social ones repopulating the different islands. You can easily see the turtles, as well as a tour with information about the islands and animals. They also have a very interesting museum, and a shop that contributes to the operation of the station. Highly recommended.
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Written December 31, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Que precio tiene llegar a la estación Charles Darwin? Y que costo tiene la entrada por favor :)
Written March 12, 2022
I don’t speak Spanish but I think your asking about entrance cost
The guards told us it was 10$ per person this included a guide through the park
Written March 13, 2022
Hi. I am trying to find out if people visiting the Charles Darwin Research Center in the past month or so had to make a reservation to go there (or if you could decide when you get there whether you want to visit). Thank you!
Written May 30, 2021
You can go whenever you want. They say no entrance fee however you have to pay $10 per person for a guide before you can enter. It takes about 2 hours.
Written November 8, 2024
I arrive at 430pm to Puerto Ayora. Would I have enough time to visit the station? Or what other activities could we do to not waste the first day at santa cruz?
Written March 30, 2019
I’d leave it until tomorrow when you have more time. Walk along the waterfront because it’s Saturday night and there will surely be something to see. The big pier has lights into the water so that’s a pretty good time after dark.
Written March 30, 2019
You do not need to book. We simply showed up. Definitely worth visiting. Enjoy!
Written February 21, 2019
Hi -Are you open on Christmas Day? Thank-you.
Written September 6, 2017
No idea sorry. But if you do find it open explore every possible corner as things are tucked away. Particularly Diego and the taxidermed Lonesome George.
Written September 6, 2017
Trying to decide if we should hire a guide for visiting the center or do a self guided tour. Any recommendations?
Written August 10, 2017
We had a guide but realized that we probably didn't need one. There are enough displays with information that covered everything he said. The only thing the guide added was in identifying birds snd plants as we were walking around the center.
Written August 12, 2017
Hello, can you tell me if there is an entry fee to the research centre? Sure it would be worth it but simply trying to budget my activities
Written May 16, 2017
It's free and in my opinion, the best place to start your visit to the Galapagos. We went the day we arrived in Puerto Ayora
Written May 25, 2017
The Charles Darwin was on our holiday itinery and we were very disappointed that this was closed. There were a few tortoises about but not really worth the walk. When was the research centre closed and why did our travel company not tell of this I wonder.
Written April 15, 2016
I actually do not remember when they started closing down areas for the renovation (it was told to us when you group REACHED Galapagos so that we could make a decision then whether or not we wanted to take that part of the planned excursions), so I cannot honestly answer to that part of the question. However, IF it was on your group's itinerary, I would think that they should have at least apprised you of the situation so you could make alternate plans if necessary. As this was not the focal point of our hopes for the islands, we were not that disappointed (other than suffering the heat when we could have been doing other activities that WOULDN'T cause heat exhaustion). However, I can see that if you were looking forward to this particular group of exhibits how you might have been disappointed. I hope that you found something else that made the trip special for you (like those crazily friendly sea lions at the dock!) In light of the problems being suffered by the unfortunate events in the Guayaquil region, I am not in the position to complain much about anything right now :-( I am thankful that we have heard from the Ecuadorean guides that we have since friended that they are safe.
Written April 18, 2016
Hola ¿saben a qué hora se puede realizar la última visita?
Written March 23, 2016
Hola, cuando yo visité, los horarios de visita para todos los lugares pertenecientes al parque nacional cerraban a las 18:00 horas. Si te levantas temprano alcanzas a hacer varias cosas durante el día y creo que alcanzaras sin problemas a visitar la reserva. Saludos y disfruta el viaje!
Written March 23, 2016
Hola, ¿Sabes a qué hora abren más o menos por la mañana?
Written March 23, 2016
Hola que tal, buen dia. Disculpa la demora en responderte.
Si habre temprano, igual tienes todo el dia para ir, no concurre mucha gente ya que estaba en reparacion y la verdad no esta muy atractivo por esta causa. Se ven pocas tortugas y unas Iguanas anaranjadas en cautiverio tambien.
Las otras Islas tambien tienen sus reservas y muy lindas como la de Isla Isabella, alli hay muchas tortugas y el parque muy arreglado , te la recomiendo.
Espero haberte sido de utildad a las ordenes.
Written March 25, 2016
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