A Galápagos Islands visit is an unparalleled personal experience with the natural world. This world-famous archipelago boast the highest rate of endemic species in the world and is inhabited by a mind-blowing multitude of flora and wildlife. Though often explored by an expeditionary Galápagos cruise or private charter which offers a big-picture panorama of the archipelago and access to remote visitor sites on uninhabited islands that are only reachable by a vessel, a cruise-based way of exploring the islands may not be ideal for some travelers. Those who are sensitive to motion sickness or sensations like “sea legs”, or those whose cruise fixed departure dates may not fit within their vacation window, may find a hotel-based experience an ideal alternative. Hotel-based experiences allow you to spend more time on an island enjoying on-island inland activities such as kayaking, biking, hiking a volcano rim, or just relaxing and taking a leisurely walk. Since you’ll be staying on inhabited islands, you’ll also get a better idea of the human side of the Galapagos and what life is like for the people who live there.
Here are our top 4 picks for the best hotel-based experience during your visit to the Galapagos Islands. All hotels are located on Santa Cruz Island.
Pikaia Lodge
Hidden in a secluded location and nestled on top of an extinct volcano crater, Pikaia Lodge is a stunning alternative for exploring the “last paradise on Earth” in a truly sustainable, yet luxurious land based way. The Pikaia Lodge concept is designed for the environmentally conscious, eco-adventure traveler, who seeks intimate contact with the unique natural heritage of the Galapagos along with all the comforts of a highly evolved lifestyle. No lack of privacy, rigid timetables, seasickness nor confined spaces of the typical yachts or cruises. As a Pikaia Lodge guest, you will enjoy active, quality guided land and marine day programs in small groups. At night you’ll rest in spacious and quiet accommodations. Due to its central location in the Archipelago, the Santa Cruz Island provides you with the perfect opportunity to develop unique land based day tour concept, since the most interesting islands, secluded white sandy beaches and wildlife sites of the Galapagos National Park are nearby. All these can be reached within relatively short navigation times on board the lodge’s large, comfortable, safe and stable ocean going yacht Pikaia I. In fact, you will discover some of the finest beaches of the Galapagos near the lodge. Just by taking a stroll, you can come face to face with a wild giant tortoise. Pikaia Lodge has its own private Tortoise Reserve on the property. Learn more about Pikaia Lodge here.
Royal Palm Hotel
The Royal Palm is a secluded hide-a-way nestling in the lush Miconia highland forests of Santa Cruz in the heart of the Galapagos. The Royal Palm is a spacious and exclusive 190 hectare (480 acres) private estate, only 20 minutes-drive from the bustling port town of Puerto Ayora. With just 8 Casitas (Spanish for little house!) and 13 exclusive villas, guests can enjoy privacy, space and quiet seclusion. Designed and crafted to complement the natural environment, this is as close to nature as you can get! The native ferns and flora create a carpet of contrast and color that cover the gently sloping hills down to the coast and beyond. Resident birds include owls, Darwin Short Beak Finches, Garrapatero birds and Egrets and for more active guests, the longest lava tunnel on the Island is a few steps from the reception! Fully-inclusive 3, 4, 5 & 7 night packages allow you to choose your activities and design your own itinerary according to your interests. Packages include every excursion option on land and sea, offering you the best of both worlds! Learn more about Royal Palm here.
Galapagos Safari Camp
Galapagos Safari Camp provides guests a unique experience with its traditional African-styled tented camp, a creative alternative to exploring the archipelago and soak nature in all comfort. Nestled in the wild highlands of Santa Cruz Island with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the National Park, the stylish camp offers a panoramic lodge, nine charming tents, a family suite and an infinity pool under a canapé of endemic trees. The luxurious tents are raised on wooden platforms and supported by three layers: one to protect against the sun, another against the rain and an inner canvas shell. The Galapagos Safari Camp is located within a 55-hectare farm, rich in birdlife including finches, warblers, mockingbirds, Galapagos doves, egrets and owls. You will also be surprised by giant tortoises roaming next your tent! The Galapagos Safari Camp is an ideal family vacation getaway. During the summer and winter school vacations, the camp’s Kids Club offers a qualified coordinator to supervise screen printing, shoe painting, cooking classes, storytelling, crafts and more! Packages range from 3-7 nights and offer a combination of land activities with boat excursions to neighboring islands. Learn more about Galapagos Safari Camp here.
Finch Bay Hotel
Finch Bay Hotel lays just steps away from the beach in a secluded location, across the bay from Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz in the heart of the Galápagos Islands. The ecologically-orientated Finch Bay has 6 Suites and 21 Rooms all with bathrooms and air conditioning. Its infrastructure and activities are entirely orientated to a concept of true ecotourism – it has won numerous awards for its conservation efforts. Guests cherish the hotel’s privacy, natural surroundings, swimming pool, fine dining and superb service. The Finch Bay offers an alternative way of experiencing the Galápagos Islands from taking an expedition cruise. Finch Bay Hotel offers all-inclusive Naturalist Packages, which can range from 3 to 7 nights, exploring visitor sites within the National Park aboard the hotel’s own yacht. The staff can also organize daily yacht tours to stunning visitor sites with experienced naturalist guides and excellent service and a range of activities on Santa Cruz. Learn more about Finch Bay Hotel here.
Contact our Galapagos Destination Specialists at sales@alluringamericas.com or call 800-701-4278 to plan the perfect Galapagos Islands hotel-based getaway.