Positive impact
Island hotels, Galápagos
Montemar Eco Luxury Villas
One of the Galápagos’ most exclusive retreats
Walk among giant Galápagos tortoises
Set on the island of Santa Cruz, Montemar Eco Luxury Villas brings community and conservation together in the Galápagos. Fuelled by a deep respect for the natural world, owners Reyna Oleas and Roberto Plaza – both local biologists and naturalist guides – brought life back into an abandoned pasture with coffee plants and native trees, transforming it into a flourishing sanctuary for endemic tortoises. At the heart of this reserve where these ancient giants roam free, Montemar invites you to reconnect with nature and yourself.
Your days here are meticulously curated by Reyna and Roberto who tailor every activity to your interests. Uncover the story behind their dedication to help care for the Galápagos’ natural environment and those who call it home. Let their expert team guide you on boat excursions to marine habitats rich with life. Kayak and snorkel in clear waters or head onshore for guided hikes to learn about native plants and wildlife. You’re also offered a glimpse into local life. Step into the workshops of artisans and witness the mastery of their craft.
The property itself produces most of its own energy and collects rainwater to help minimise its environmental footprint. Here, just two luxury villas offer you the space to unwind in privacy or come together. Both blend minimalist modernity with the essence of the Galápagos, built from natural materials such as lava rock and bamboo. Villa Tortuga is perfect for families, featuring four bedrooms plus generous outdoor areas for lounging, dining and barbecues. Villa Lechuza lodges up to four guests and takes inspiration from the owls in the reserve. It also has an outdoor deck, from where you can watch the sunset on the horizon.
Mornings at Montemar begin with natural coffee grown onsite and continue with freshly-made meals crafted with ingredients from its farm. In between, you’re invited to slow down in the presence of nature. Wander alongside tortoises as they amble through the grassland. Or gaze out to the sway of the Pacific Ocean during restorative lava treatments, yoga and meditation classes.
The impact of your stay:
- Your stay at Montemar directly supports environmental stewardship in the Galápagos. As the first luxury villas owned and operated by Ecuadorians, Montemar is committed to protecting the environment, using 70% locally sourced materials, solar energy, rainwater and operating with zero single-use plastics.
- You’re helping to protect one of the Galápagos’ most iconic species: the giant tortoise. As part of a private reserve, Montemar supports conservation through the Galapagos Tortoise Movement Ecology Programme. Even their home-grown coffee funds research, connecting your visit to the preservation of this incredible species.
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