This is an example of our preferred hotel, though availability is not guaranteed. If a given hotel is not available for your tour date, we will reserve you a room at a hotel of similar appeal and quality in the same area.
The beautiful Finch Bay Hotel
<<
>>
The charming Finch Bay - named after the famous Darwin's Finches abundant in the surroundings - is just steps from the beach on a private seaside location, surrounded by mangroves. Here guests can cherish the privacy, natural surroundings and superb service offered by the Finch Bay on their land-based Galapagos tour.
Located on Santa Cruz Island at Punta Estrada, across the bay from the town of Puerto Ayora, it is situated in a quiet location, with only pedestrian and bicycle circulation - there are no cars in the neighborhood.
Finch Bay accommodates 42 guests with 21 twin-bedded rooms, each with private facilities, air conditioning and unlimited water supply, as the hotel has its own desalinization plant. This ecologically oriented hotel also boasts innovative garbage processing and recycling programs. The entire infrastructure as well as the activities are totally oriented to a concept of true ecotourism in a pristine natural environment.
Delicious healthy international and Galapagos inspired menus are prepared daily by our chef, using the freshest ingredients.
Finch Bay is easily accessible. After a two-hour flight from Ecuador's mainland, guests arrive to the airport of Baltra in the Galapagos and then take overland transportation to Puerto Ayora and the Finch Bay.
Finch Bay is the only full-service Galapagos Eco-Hotel situated directly on a beach.
- Eco-Hotel with International Service Standards
- 21 rooms with twin beds (one cot for child)
- 17 rooms at ground level, 4 rooms on second floor
- Modern design incorporating Galapagos' natural elements
- Each room has wooden blindsm, a black-out curtain, tile floors and a telephone.
- All rooms are nonsmoking
- Air conditioned rooms (via in-room remote control),
- Each room has a private bath with hot water, hair dryers and soap and shampoo dispensers.
- Beach towels available
- Unlimited water supply (own desalinization plant)
- Ice machine
- Laundry service
- Private Outdoor Pool (open 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM)
- Complimentary transfer to/from Baltra Island airport
- Mangrove-rich coastline
- Bar and Lounge
- Outdoor Jacuzzi
- Restaurant featuring International Cuisine (tastefully blended with local flavors). Buffet Breakfast. Lunch and dinner are a la carte
- Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can be accommodated
- Communications: telephone, fax, e-mail, Internet access.
- Beautiful grounds for strolling
- Beach-front access
- No motorized vehicles
- No paved roads
Finch Bay Excursions
Yacht Excursions:
North Seymour Island
A stroll on flat terrain allows for the observation of Palo Santo trees, colonies of blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls and magnificent frigate birds. Towards the other side of the island, the ocean crashes against the rocks and sea lions surf in the waves.
Plaza Island
This small island is full of fascinating wildlife, at sea side and along the cliffs: sea lions, land iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, and Opuntia cacti, a plant that changes colors with the seasons, await you.
Sante Fe
A short trek leads you through thickets of Opuntia cacti and Palo Santo trees. Land iguanas (endemic to Santa Fe), lava lizards, and colonies of sea lions can be observed. Swimming and snorkeling are a must on this stop.
Bartolome
The trail is a fairly steep climb on wooden steps to the summit, but worth the effort, as there is a spectacular view of the Galapagos scenery from above. Interesting lava formations and tuff cones can be observed, and sea lions and penguins swim in the vicinity of Pinnacle Rock. Enjoy snorkeling or swimming from the beach.
Land Excursions:
Tortuga Bay is considered the nicest spot in the archipelago, a peaceful corner for the nature lover. Its name comes from the sea turtles that go there to lay their eggs. Excellent bird watching can be found along the way to and at the Bay.
Mountain Biking Options
Route 1:
Paradise Downhill Road (14 kilometers/8 miles):
With an altitude of 250 meters (820 feet) above sea level this route ends at El Garrapatero, which is a newly opened visitor site in the Galapagos for recreational use. Most of the ride is downhill on moderate terrain (gravel and small rocks).
Route 2:
Quest for Giant Tortoises
From the highlands of Santa Cruz ride about 14 kilometers (8 miles) on paved and dirt roads of medium difficulty. Arrive at the El Chato Tortoise Reserve and then take a 45-minute hike within the reserve. In addition to the giant tortoises, look for flycatchers, gallinules, rails, and Darwin's finches. Previous biking experience is suggested. Return to Puerto Ayora by private transportation.
