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Conservation center · Puerto Villamil, Galápagos
Centro de Crianza de Tortugas Arnaldo Tupiza
National Park center that raises hatchlings of giant tortoises from the southern populations of Isabela, reached by a trail among lagoons with flamingos.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Centro de Crianza de Tortugas Arnaldo Tupiza
The Centro de Crianza de Tortugas Arnaldo Tupiza is about 1.5 km from the center of Puerto Villamil and is run by the Parque Nacional Galápagos. There giant tortoises from the southern populations of Isla Isabela are raised, such as those from the Sierra Negra volcano and Cerro Azul, which greatly declined in the past.
Eggs are incubated at the center, and hatchlings grow in enclosures separated by age until they are large enough to be returned to the wild. Visitors walk along boardwalks between enclosures, seeing tortoises of various sizes, and panels explain the species from each volcano and the conservation work.
The walking route from the village is a boardwalk trail that crosses the brackish lagoons behind Puerto Villamil, where flamingos commonly feed, along with ducks, herons and other birds. It is one of the island's gentlest outings and can be done independently.
Do not touch or feed the tortoises, and keep the indicated distance.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1h30, including the lagoon trail.
Best time
In the morning, when the tortoises are usually more active and the flamingos appear in the lagoons. Confirm the center's opening hours beforehand.
How to get there
You walk from the center of Puerto Villamil along the boardwalk trail through the lagoons, about 1.5 km. It is also reachable by bicycle or taxi.
Tip
Go slowly along the lagoon trail and look for flamingos in the shallow waters. Bring water and a hat.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Centro de Crianza de Tortugas Arnaldo Tupiza
Why is there a tortoise breeding center on Isabela?
To restore the populations of giant tortoises in the southern part of the island, which declined greatly in the past. The hatchlings grow at the center and are later returned to the wild.
Where can you see flamingos in Puerto Villamil?
In the lagoons behind the village, on the way to the breeding center. Their presence varies depending on the season.
Is a guide required?
No. The center and the lagoon trail can be visited independently. Check the opening hours beforehand.