Puerto Ayora Highlights:
This is the main population center of the islands, home to the National Park Tortoise Breeding Center and the Charles Darwin
Research Station. After Darwin's studies and surveys, the Galapagos Archipelago remained untouched except for occasional landings for water and meager supplies mustered from the uninhabited islands. Many tortoises were taken for food and oil.

Unknowingly, these ships left behind non-indigenous animals like rats and cats. This, along with human settlement and the further introduction of non-indigenous animals like goats, pigs, and dogs, had a devastating effect on many native species. Once-domesticated animals escaped and became feral, and the islands suddenly were overrun with predators never seen before. They competed for available food, eating tortoise eggs, baby iguanas, and the plant base, which led to massive erosion and overall . The Galapagos tortoises are still in danger of extinction. Just ask "Lonesome George," the last of his particular species in the world, who's estimated to be 150 years old.

In 1930, an expedition from the US arrived to create a wildlife sanctuary for the entire archipelago, and finally, in 1935, the first laws were passed to protect these islands. In 1959, the Ecuadorian government declared the Galapagos a national park, the catalyst needed to promote scientific research, restoration, and preservation of the ecosystem. That year saw the creation of the Charles Darwin Foundation, which funds the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz. Eradication of all invading species, capping or reduction of human population, and perhaps even stronger limits on tourism may be the future of the Galapagos Archipelago as scientists work to save this spectacular place and return it to its pristine, natural beauty.

Excurions include a visit to the Tortoise Breeding Center, and hopefully to say hello to one of the island’s most famous residents,
Lonesome George, as well as walk through the Charles Darwin Station. You will also have the opportunity to take a bus ride to the
Highlands to observe giant tortoises in the wild and walk through a lava tunnel. There will also be free time available for shopping.