Hidden in a secluded giant tortoise reserve, nestled on the edge of an extinct volcanic crater, Pikaia Lodge provides the highest level of comfort and services and a fantastic alternative for exploring a “pristine paradise on Earth” in a truly sustainable yet luxurious, land-based stay. Pikaia is designed for the eco-adventure traveler, who seeks close contact with the incredible wildlife, stunning views, and natural beauty surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage site. Pikaia Lodge offers all-inclusive three- to seven-night packages, complemented by half- and full-day land and marine explorations aboard an exclusive private yacht.

Essential Info:

Property Size: 14 rooms

Room Style: Luxury Wilderness

Vibe: Sophisticated Families

Dress Code: Darwin Chic

Key Features: Wildlife (above and below water), Wellness,

Key Amenities: Pool, Spa

Restaurant Style: International Comfort

Best time to Go: Dec to Jun

Location: Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador

Price point: Remote luxury premium ($$$$)

Perfect For: Adventure-seekers with a passion for undersea life

HV Verdict: Stay here and skip the cabin fever (or worse) on the boats

What Works:

Pikaia is one of the newest, and most luxurious, of the options of where to stay on land in the Galapagos. The commanding location on top of an extinct volcano provides unparalleled views in every direction, the contemporary design feels surprisingly appropriate for the remote location, and the staff are warm and gracious.

What Doesn’t:

Being landlocked on the Galapagos is not for everyone, especially without easy access to a beach or the water. The remote location means that’s its hard to find good local staff and good local ingredients, and while the staff try hard on both fronts, the food is pretty average and the service is charmingly inept.

Insiders tip:

Everyone debates about whether to do the Galapagos by land or by boat, but staying at Pikaia allows you to do both. Reserve the lodge’s private yacht, Pikaia I, for your exclusive use in exploring the surrounding islands. This one-of-a-kind vessel has a private cabin for day tours and is fully equipped with air conditioning and showers.

The Terrain

Overview

Hidden in a secluded location and nestled on top of an extinct volcano crater. Pikaia Lodge is a stunning new alternative to explore the "Last paradise on Earth" in a comfortable and truly sustainable land based model.

The Pikaia Lodge concept is designed for the environmentally conscious, physically active eco-adventure traveler, who seeks close contact with the unique natural wonders of the Galapagos with the highest level of comfort and services.

While on property, our guests, will enjoy active, quality guided land and marine day programs in small groups during the day. On property they will enjoy the state-of-the-art facilities and outstanding gastronomy and at night, they will rest in spacious and quiet accommodations.

Due to its central location in the Archipelago, the Santa Cruz Island provided us with the perfect opportunity to develop a 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 our large, comfortable, safe and stable oceangoing yacht Pikaia I. 

In fact, guests will discover some of the most stunning wonders of the Galapagos right a the Lodge; just by taking a stroll guests can come face to face with a wild giant tortoise in from own private Tortoise Reserve!