Puerto Ayora is the Metropole the Galapagos archipelago. This is where the majority of the population is found, with around 15,000 inhabitants on the island of Santa Cruz. You will find an hospital, schools, a lot good restaurants and great places to do your shopping. The city is very busy and crowded and can be very hot with the sun. This is why it’s nice to escape to the highlands or at the beach to find some fresh air.

From Puerto Ayora, you can book many tours to go visit others islands around Santa Cruz such as Santa Fé, Bartolome, North Seymour and more.

This is also where you can find the Charles Darwin Scientific Station.

Bicycle parking on the waterfront in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos National Park, Ecuador. Puerto Ayora is the most populous town in the Galapagos Islands.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is the capital of the Galapagos and is home to over 6,000 residents, the second most populated town. A lot of beaches and interesting attractions are close to town and easy to walk to. This town is a great mix between tranquility and lively little village.

Located on Santa Cruz Island, the Charles Darwin Research Station is a world-renowned research and conservation center dedicated to preserving the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. Founded in 1964, the station works closely with the Galápagos National Park and various international organizations to protect and study the archipelago’s ecosystem.

The station is home to a multidisciplinary team of scientists, researchers and volunteers who carry out a wide range of conservation and restoration projects. Among its most notable initiatives are the breeding programs for the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises, which have played a crucial role in the recovery of several threatened subspecies.

In addition to its scientific work, the Charles Darwin Station offers visitors the opportunity to learn about conservation efforts through educational exhibits, interpretive trails and informative lectures. Visitors can get up close and personal with the giant tortoises breeding center’s, observe the daily work of scientists, and learn about the natural history of the islands and the environmental challenges they face.

The resort is also dedicated to educating and raising awareness among the local community and tourists, promoting sustainable tourism practices and the importance of conservation. Its educational programs and community workshops seek to engage local people in protecting their natural environment and adopting sustainable practices.

Visiting the Charles Darwin Scientific Station is an enriching experience that allows travelers to understand the importance of conservation and research in preserving one of the most unique and fragile ecosystems on the planet.