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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

The beautiful colorful shores of the Galapagos.

Hiking Galapagos

Hotel-Based Tour
9 Days from $5,327
Sea lions and tortoises and iguanas -- oh my! Explore some of the Islands' most remarkable regions, including snorkeling at Leon Dormido, Tortuga Bay, Frigate Hill and a hike to the rim of Sierra Negra volcano. Spend nights on the Islands in comfortable hotels on this 9-day trip with the best hiking in Galapagos.
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Enjoy seeing the beauty of these islands on an exciting kayak trip.

Galapagos Multisport

Hotel-Based Tour
8 Days from $3,991
This 8-day multisport adventure to the Galapagos Islands is packed with thrilling and unique experiences. Begin your action-packed trip with a trek on San Cristobal Island, and then continue with kayaking, snorkeling, and biking around the Galapagos, where wildlife awaits at every turn, trailside, and shoreline!
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Sea lion coming in from a swim

Western Islands

San Cristobal Airport to Baltra
8 Days from $3,561
This cruise to the Western Islands of the Galapagos allows you to witness exciting and unique plants, animals, and landscapes. Swim, hike, and explore on this 8-day tour on the Aida Maria.
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What a life!

Eastern Islands

Baltra to San Cristobal Airport
8 Days from $3,561
Travel aboard the Aida Maria to the Galapagos Islands. Witness a sea turtle nesting area, swim with penguins, see a variety of birds and wildlife, and explore lava flows on this 8-day adventure.
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5 Deals on Cruises to Charles Darwin Center for 2025-2026

Trip NameSaveFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Eastern & Central Islands$47957Feb 3, 2025Indulge in the unique beauty of the Galapagos Islands on this 7-day adventure aboard M/Y Monserrat. Learn about the history of this unique …
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Central East & Southern Islands$53958Jan 30, 2025Onboard the M/Y Monserrat, embark on an 8-day fascinating trip that displays the Galapagos Islands' diverse landscapes and wildlife-rich beaches. …
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Southern IslandsSavings$61954Apr 14, 2025Set sail on a 4-day Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise to the Eastern Galapagos Islands. Explore San Cristóbal, and visit Tijeretas Hill. Enjoy Gardner Bay …
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Southern & Northern IslandsSavings$116957Apr 14, 2025Join the 7-Day Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise in the Eastern & Central Galapagos, beginning on San Cristóbal Island. Explore Tijeretas, Gardner Bay, …
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Central East & Southern IslandsSavings$129958Apr 10, 2025Explore Central East & Southern Islands on this 8-day cruise aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise. Visit Baltra and meet giant tortoises. Enjoy …
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TrustScore 4.8 | 443 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
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Based on 443 reviews on
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1 day ago
The cruise was amazing. The crew on Le Jacques Cartier were all the best. All the stops were interesting cities with great excursions. We kayaked Lake Rotiti and explored the glow worm caves. The leaders, Georgia and Aaron were the best. We would recommend this cruise to everyone.
Bob Tyk
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1 day ago
Adventure Life has been our go-to for two incredible trips over the past couple of years, and both experiences exceeded our expectations. The trip planners are exceptionally knowledgeable, dedicated to ensuring we have the best possible journey. Every detail was meticulously handled, making both trips absolutely seamless. We can't wait to plan our next adventure with them!
Andrew Jensen
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2 days ago
I’m very pleased with how prompt the service was.
Ms. JO STONE
review score
3 days ago
great communication
Marjorie Abrahams
review score
4 days ago
Professional and prompt service
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