Puerto Ayora, Galapagos cruise port guide
Santa Cruz is the second-largest island in the Galapagos and home to Puerto Ayora (the largest town in the islands). In 1959, the Ecuadorian government declared all the islands, except areas already colonized, as a national park. In the same year, the Charles Darwin Foundation was founded to promote scientific research and ensure the conservation of the Galapagos. In 1992, the waters surrounding the Galapagos were declared a marine reserve. Here, you have the opportunity to visit a giant tortoise reserve in the lushly vegetated highlands, where the animals roam free in their natural habitat. On another excursion, a short drive through town brings you to the Galapagos Park Service giant tortoise breeding station and the Charles Darwin Research Station. Afterwards there is time to wander through the lovely streets of Puerto Ayora for some shopping.
About Puerto Ayora, Galapagos
Puerto Ayora is the largest town in the Galápagos Islands, located on Santa Cruz Island, and serves as the primary tourism hub for the archipelago. It is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station and provides access to giant tortoise sanctuaries and world-class wildlife encounters.
The Charles Darwin Research Station on Academy Bay is the obligatory first stop, offering close encounters with giant tortoises and insight into ongoing conservation work. Tortuga Bay—a 2.5 km walk from town—ranks among the finest beaches in the Galápagos, populated by marine iguanas, spotted eagle rays, and Galápagos sharks. Day excursions to Española Island, Fernandina, and other outer islands are organised through licensed agencies.
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