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Giant Tortise at Charles Darwin Research Centre, Santa Cruz

Charles Darwin Center Galapagos

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The Charles Darwin Research Station is a staple part of any Galapagos tour or cruise. Named for the renowned 19th century naturalist who first posited the theory of evolution & natural selection, breakthrough scientific discoveries are still being made here every year. It is located on Santa Cruz Island and serves as the headquarters for the Galapagos National Park. The most notable projects here are the iguana and tortoise breeding programs. In an effort to conserve and protect these unique, endemic animals, threatened iguana & tortoise species from various islands are bred in captivity and raised until adulthood when they are able to be repatriated into their natural environment. Visitors here can see them up close being raised from egg to maturity and interact with the scientists and volunteers who manage projects.

4 Best Explore Trips Visiting Charles Darwin Center for 2025-2026

6 Deals on Cruises to Charles Darwin Center for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
Eastern & Central Islands $4,795 7 Mar 31, 2025 Indulge in the unique beauty of the Galapagos Islands on this 7-day adventure aboard M/Y Monserrat. Learn about the history of this unique archipelago, rest on a white sand beach, view abundant wildlife, and take advantage of once-in-a-lifetime snorkel opportunities.
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Volcanic Wonders $10,250 8 Mar 30, 2025 On this comprehensive 8-day tour of the Galapagos Islands aboard the M/V Origin, see unusual wildlife such as marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, penguins, and giant Galapagos tortoises. By zodiac dinghy, trekking, or snorkeling, explore the Galapagos National Park.
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Northern Islands $4,200 5 Apr 10, 2025 Sail to one of the most unique archipelagos in the world on this 5-day Galapagos Islands cruise aboard the Alya catamaran. The Galapagos Islands are teeming with sea life including blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, land and marine iguanas, sea lions, and penguins.
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Southern Islands $6,195 4 Apr 14, 2025 Set sail on a 4-day Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise to the Eastern Galapagos Islands. Explore San Cristóbal, and visit Tijeretas Hill. Enjoy Gardner Bay and Punta Suárez on Española, then discover unique beaches, flamingos, and marine life at Punta Cormorant on Floreana. Conclude your journey at the Charles Darwin Research Station and fly back home.
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Western Islands $4,700 6 Apr 12, 2025 Enjoy the Galapagos Islands aboard EcoGalaxy in 6 days, where you explore magical landscapes with unique wildlife like giant tortoises, flamingos, iguanas, and sharks. There is an endless list of activities to do on the different islands: Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Rabida and Santiago.
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Private Charter - Beyond Darwin's Footsteps Aboard Grace $180,600 8 Apr 22, 2025 Close encounters with nature highlight this 8-day private Galapagos cruise onboard the Grace. The islands are teeming with animals that are eager to meet visitors. Explore Espanola, Floreana, Santa Cruz, and other nearby cities! Scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are all popular pastimes in this area.
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