Pikaia Lodge

The evolution of luxury eco-adventure in the Galapagos Islands EC. A new step in the evolution of luxury eco-adventure in the Galapagos Islands. The Pikaia Lodge concept is designed for the environmentally conscious, physically active, and adventurous traveler who seeks close contact with the Galapagos’ unique natural wonders, with the highest level of comfort and services that can be provided within the limitations of such a remote, restricted and eco-sensitive location. In contrast to traditional cruises, the land-based tour programs offer higher comfort, more privacy and personalized attention, a finer gastronomy, arrival & departure date flexibility, and, most importantly, the possibility to avoid seasickness common to live-aboard yacht cruises.

A Stunning Location with Breathtaking Views – Pikaia lodge is on Santa Cruz island, located in the center of the Galapagos archipelago. These islands belong to the Republic of Ecuador. The Galapagos and its surrounding marine reserve are UNESCO Natural World Heritage sites. The marine reserve is one of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the world and the second-largest protected marine reserve, after the Australian Great Barrier Reef. Pikaia Lodge is perched on the edge of an extinct volcanic crater. It offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Galapagos. The 31 hectares of property and private wild giant tortoise reserve are located 450 meters above sea level in the transition zone between the sunny, arid savanna and the volcanic highlands’ lush tropical mist forest. Given its unique location, the Lodge has a special microclimate: warm and sunny with fresh breezes for most of the year, and therefore, mosquito-free!

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, you will enjoy active, quality guided land and marine day programs in small groups during the day. On the 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, Santa Cruz Island provided us with the perfect opportunity to develop a unique and-based day tour concept since the most interesting islands, secluded white sandy beaches, and wildlife sites, the Galapagos National Park are nearby. All these can be reached within relatively short navigation times on board the 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!

Dining – The ”Evolution Restaurant” is situated on the edge of a crater. It offers an unrivaled view over the infinity edge pool to the pristine Galapagos National Park and other islands in the archipelago. It is furnished in a contemporary style decorated with casual elegance, with a subtle artistic touch inspired by humanity’s evolution. The Wine Cellar – Evolution restaurant has an air-conditioned walk-in wine cellar with a range of the finest South American wines. Guests can select their wines with the Maitre’s advice to enhance their gastronomic experiences. The executive chef Cristian Puente brings a wealth of experience in Ecuadorian fusion gastronomy.

”Breakfast” – In the morning, Evolution serves a variety of breakfast options, from full American style, hearty local traditional favorites, healthy treats as well as fresh-made natural detox juice blends to kick-start your day full of adventure.”Lunch” – Takes you on a journey from traditional Ecuadorian cuisine to the own spin of world-renowned dishes, as well as feel-good food, which everyone enjoys from time to time. Lunch can also be served outside on the shaded decks with splendid panoramic views behind the infinity-edge pool.” Dinner”. The menus are created with a unique fusion of Ecuadorian and international flavors, which change every two days to offer guests a wider variety to select from.

”Homo Sapiens Explorers Lounge” – The comfortable Homo Sapiens Explorers Lounge is located in the main building with a 24-person seating capacity. All programmed guest conferences and lectures are held here. It is equipped with a large 3D HD-TV screen, a special selection of DVDs, 3D goggles, wireless microphones, and an amplification system. The library is dedicated to the topics of science, evolution, and the Galapagos Islands. Temporary art and photography are exhibited here to promote local artists and scientific knowledge. For colder nights, there is a fireplace for a cozy, warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Wellness – The wellness center is an oasis of calm, perched on the craters’ rims at the eastern end of the main building with dramatic Pacific Ocean views. Sumaq Spa is decorated with Peruvian travertine marble in a minimalistic Japanese zen style to soothe the mind. The whirlpool provides the best ambiance to experience total peace and profound relaxation with its never-ending 270-degree view of the ocean. It is a serene place to spend well-deserved time releasing muscular tension and stress while traveling or to pamper and purify the body with a massage after a busy day of explorations. Also, having a massage room for parallel massage sessions for couples. Massage sessions can also be done in the guests’ rooms if requested.