Most visitors to the Galápagos will pass through Puerto Ayora on Isla Santa Cruz, the largest hub in the islands. At the east end of traveller-friendly downtown, and offering the best primer to Galápagos Island history and context, is Charles Darwin Research Station. As its name suggests, this field station conducts scientific research and monitors Galápagos ecology, with dual aims of conservation and education. Taking the US$10 ranger-led walking tour is an hour-long crash course to the natural and human history of the islands, and well worth the intro.

Tours occur throughout the day between the hours of 8am and 5pm, conducted in Spanish and English. As you walk and birdwatch through the typical opuntia cactus and palo santo ecology, you’ll pause at various interpretive displays to learn about Galápagos geology, the evolution of its wildlife, human history and impact on the islands, and eventually the story of the iconic Galápagos tortoise.

When you finally arrive at the research station, you’ll encounter these animals at all stages of life. These individuals represent conservation efforts to repopulate the islands with these endangered tortoise subspecies, and they’re truly fascinating to see up close. Follow your tour with a visit to the interpretive centre, and you’ll leave with a solid context for the rest of your Galápagos travels.