For the first time, the Charles Darwin Foundation opens Galápagos’ largest scientific collections to the public. Housing over 137,000 specimens, this new facility offers a rare glimpse into the science shaping conservation decisions and safeguarding one of the planet’s most extraordinary ecosystems.

Microbiology arrived at the Galapagos Verde 2050 program

Being a volunteer at the Charles Darwin Foundation was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. For two months, I had the privilege of participating in various projects that allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible work being done to protect the natural environment of the Galápagos Islands. From guiding visitors in the Exhibition Hall, collaborating with the Communications and Marketing team, to joining scientists in the field, I experienced a full immersion in the CDF’s conservation efforts.

Being a volunteer at the Charles Darwin Foundation was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. For two months, I had the privilege of participating in various projects that allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible work being done to protect the natural environment of the Galápagos Islands. From guiding visitors in the Exhibition Hall, collaborating with the Communications and Marketing team, to joining scientists in the field, I experienced a full immersion in the CDF’s conservation efforts.

Scalesia plants in Galápagos illustrate adaptive radiation through variations in height, leaf size, and structure across environments. While these traits reflect their ability to adjust, rapid environmental changes may exceed their adaptive limits. Research identifies how these species respond, supporting monitoring and conservation efforts to protect vulnerable plant populations.

The population of the Galapagos pricky pear cactus declined during the 1960s and 1970s due to the impact of invasive species and human activities. By adopting a Galapagos prickly pear cactus you will support the Charles Darwin Foundation’s Galapagos Verde 2050 program, which works to restore the populations and enhance the conservation process of the Galapagos ecosystems by using ecological restoration tools.

Lessons from the Field: A Five-Day Expedition with Galapagos Waved Albatross on Española Island

Cristian Peñafiel, our field assistant for the giant tortoise conservation program, was interviewed by our donor, Galapagos Conservation Trust, to share his experience studying these iconic animals.

Travel to the Galapagos Islands and help protect these iconic places. Discover the Charles Darwin Foundation's essential travel tips for responsible tourism.

Scientists from the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) have, for the first time, assessed the conservation status of mangrove ecosystems in the Galápagos Islands using the Red List of Ecosystems methodology developed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The study concludes that this ecosystem is classified as Vulnerable, underscoring the urgency of its conservation. The full report is available in the EcoEvoRxiv repository.

Cristian Peñafiel, our field assistant for the giant tortoise conservation program, was interviewed by our donor, Galapagos Conservation Trust, to share his experience studying these iconic animals.