On February 11, we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day to recognize the importance of strengthening female participation in science, especially in places like the Galapagos Islands. This archipelago, iconic for global conservation, has become a living laboratory where women and men work together to protect this unique ecosystem. The women of Galapagos, with their talent and dedication, demonstrate that conservation is stronger when everyone joins forces.

On February 11, we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day to recognize the importance of strengthening female participation in science, especially in places like the Galapagos Islands. This archipelago, iconic for global conservation, has become a living laboratory where women and men work together to protect this unique ecosystem. The women of Galapagos, with their talent and dedication, demonstrate that conservation is stronger when everyone joins forces.

Join the Pristine Galapagos Society and become part of the history books of the Galapagos Islands

Dr. Syuzo Itow, a Japanese botanist and professor at Nagasaki University, was a key figure in the study of Galápagos. He researched the Scalesia forests, helped secure long-term support for botanical work at the Charles Darwin Foundation, and in 2005 founded the Japanese Association of Friends of Galápagos (JAGA), fostering scientific and cultural exchange between Japan, Galápagos, and the Ogasawara Islands.

A look back at the origins of the Charles Darwin Foundation and the key role of Cristóbal Bonifaz in shaping science and conservation in Galápagos, and how the recovery of his archives reconnects us with that shared legacy.

Since its inception in 1971, our Scholarship Program has enabled over 250 students from Galapagos to complete their education and pursue careers in conservation.

The world conservation movement and the Galapagos Islands lost a passionate supporter, pioneering conservationist, mentor and friend with the death of Dr. Craig George MacFarland in April 2025.

Scientists on a Schmidt Ocean Institute expedition have discovered a new hydrothermal vent field larger than a professional soccer field. The vent field found in the Pacific Ocean off the Western Galápagos Islands consists of five geyser-like chimneys and three hot springs, like those you might see in Yellowstone.

Today, I find myself here, by the sea, writing about my experience living on an island. It all started when I was searching for an opportunity, and I found a living dream instead: volunteering in the Galápagos. I applied to the Landbird Conservation Program of the Charles Darwin Foundation and had the privilege of becoming part of their team.Today, I find myself here, by the sea, writing about my experience living on an island. It all started when I was searching for an opportunity, and I found a living dream instead: volunteering in the Galápagos. I applied to the Landbird Conservation Program of the Charles Darwin Foundation and had the privilege of becoming part of their team.

Today, I find myself here, by the sea, writing about my experience living on an island. It all started when I was searching for an opportunity, and I found a living dream instead: volunteering in the Galápagos. I applied to the Landbird Conservation Program of the Charles Darwin Foundation and had the privilege of becoming part of their team.Today, I find myself here, by the sea, writing about my experience living on an island. It all started when I was searching for an opportunity, and I found a living dream instead: volunteering in the Galápagos. I applied to the Landbird Conservation Program of the Charles Darwin Foundation and had the privilege of becoming part of their team.

Floreana, the first inhabited island in Galapagos, faces significant environmental challenges due to both direct and indirect human impacts. However, thanks to the coordinated efforts of its community, research groups, local and international conservation organizations, authorities, protected area managers, and donors, it has become a symbol of collective action and hope for the restoration of the archipelago’s biodiversity.

Floreana, the first inhabited island in Galapagos, faces significant environmental challenges due to both direct and indirect human impacts. However, thanks to the coordinated efforts of its community, research groups, local and international conservation organizations, authorities, protected area managers, and donors, it has become a symbol of collective action and hope for the restoration of the archipelago’s biodiversity.

Discover the revival of Isabela Island’s historic Children’s Forest, a once-forgotten sanctuary of the endangered Scalesia cordata. From its origins with Don Jacinto to today’s community-led restoration, this story reconnects generations through conservation, memory, and hope. Click to explore how a beloved forest is coming back to life.