Pikaia Lodge in the Galapagos Islands provides an intimate boutique experience through 29 rooms. The islands are famous for their remarkable biodiversity and their unique role in shaping Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. From the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises and iguanas to sea lions, cormorants, blue-footed boobies, and penguins, the islands offer incredible opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.
Pikaia Lodge has been designed with utmost environmental considerations, aiming to provide luxurious five-star accommodations while achieving carbon neutrality.
Their story
The location of Pikai Lodge was previously a cattle ranch, but it underwent an extensive restoration project after it was acquired in 2006. As a result, they replanted over 10,000 endemic trees to help the return of native wildlife, including tortoises and birds. Read more about them here.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The lodge’s construction prioritized minimizing the use of concrete by incorporating prefabricated steel columns and beams.
- Local Galapagos lava stone and tiles were sourced and cleaned without chemicals or paints that were later used in the construction.
- Peruvian Travertine and fossil marbles were used for bathroom fixtures and pool decks, highlighting Earth’s geological history.
- Sustainable teak and bamboo wood were utilized.
- They spent six years restoring the property to its original natural state including an extensive reforestation project of planting over 10,000 trees.
High level of energy efficiency
- Solar water heating collector panels for hot water and solar photovoltaic for energy production.
- Lodge’s orientation and window placement to minimize intense Equatorial sun.
- Passive cooling with cross-air ventilation and optimized natural air flows.
- Energy-efficient interior and exterior lighting using LED and fluorescent bulbs.
- Low exterior lighting to preserve the natural feeding habits of insects, birds, and bats.
- Solar luminescent materials for exterior signaling.
- The lodge uses clean LPG gas for kitchen, laundry, and spa equipment.
- Laminated UV-reflecting window glass with curtains and blackout for energy conservation.
- Ceiling ventilators and energy-saving air conditioners with “inverter technology” in guest rooms and offices for additional cooling, if needed.
Pioneer in waste management
- Water sourced from Pto. Ayora’s municipal wells and transported by reliable third-party transportation.
- Rainwater collection from roofs for kitchen use, purified through reverse osmosis, UV, or ozone treatment.
- High-quality water-saving devices, including toilets, shower heads, and taps.
- Three-stage aerobic wastewater treatment plant with UV treatment to prevent pollution.
- Organic waste is composted for greenhouse or collected by local farmers.
- Recycling of plastics, glass, paper, and cardboard at the Fabricio Valverde recycling center.
- Proper disposal of used oil through a privately operated recycling center financed by Pikaia Lodge.
Fully organic and chemical-free operation
- Use of biodegradable cleaning products, detergents, and soaps.
- Landscaping with native endemic trees and vegetation adapted to the terrain and dry climate.
Actively protects nature and community
- Pikaia Lodge has created over 60 jobs for Santa Cruz Island residents, contributing to the local economy.
- The lodge received approval from the Ministry of the Environment of Ecuador and the Ingala Counsel. Pikaia Lodge obtained its environmental license, being the first Galapagos entity to complete the rigorous approval process.
Most Popular Activities near Pikaia Lodge
- Encounters with Galapagos animals
- Snorkeling and scuba diving
- Volcano hiking
- Swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding
- Sunset cruises
- Visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station
READ ON our Galápagos Islands Guide on where to go and what to see in 2025
Best Time To Visit Pikaia Lodge
- The Galápagos Islands offer incredible experiences year-round, but the best time to visit is during the warm season from December to May. Expect clear skies, temperatures between 80-90°F, and occasional tropical showers that keep the landscape vibrant. Giant tortoises are especially active during this time, often seen roaming the area.
- From June to November, the cool season brings cooler temperatures (70-80°F) and misty conditions, along with fewer visitors. Wildlife viewing is excellent in both seasons, but water activities are more enjoyable in the warm season when the ocean is calmer and warmer.
HOW TO GET THERE – read our guide on Galapagos airports and how to get to each island