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A charming boutique hotel in the heart of Galapagos Giant Tortoise territory, featuring Starlink high speed satellite internet throughout. Giant tortoises roam freely around the 12 acre estate, and birdsong resounds in the tree canopy above. Combine your stay with one of our Hotel & Island Tour Packages to complete the picture. Enjoy unparalleled peace and privacy alongside the Galapagos wildlife that you came so far to see. One-to-one personal service, traditional home cooking, panoramic views from private terraces and exclusive access to nature trails through twelve acres of private forest where both giant tortoises and native birds thrive. At night, relax in one of the lounges or in your hammock and gaze up into the unspoilt majesty of the milky way. The location is secluded but convenient for town visits and tours, and very safe. Nine comfortable en-suite bedrooms with AC, WiFi and Cable TV just 15 minutes taxi ride from Puerto Ayora town, costing just $7 e/w. All in all, an authentic and genuinely friendly land-base for your Galapagos adventure and an all encompassing alternative or add-on to a traditional cruise ship experience. Semilla Verde works with a local tour agency to offer semi inclusive or fully inclusive hotel & tour packages too. Visit the same outlying islands that cruise ships do, and must see local sites with qualified naturalist guides. Experience first hand the beauty of Galapagos and its unique flora and fauna - from giant tortoises and lava lizards to marine iguanas and playful sea lions, from volcanic landscapes to cloud forest. Return to the hotel at the end of an incomparable day and share your travel stories around the main dining table with other guests, whilst enjoying dinner freshly prepared in our kitchen. Indeed, we don't work from a menu rather we discuss the options with you and prepare one recipe that can be adjusted to individual preferences or dietary restrictions. Semilla Verde remains true to the philosophy on which it originally built for good friends and family, ensuring a level of intimacy, small number of employees offering very personal service and home cooking your will only find in a traditional guesthouse. Semilla Verde comprises two main hotel buildings about 30m/100ft apart - the Semilla Verde Hotel (Rooms 1-6) and the Finch Wing (Rooms 7-9). Conveniently positioned between the two, and next to the tortoise pond, there is a fully equipped yoga studio where you can enjoy individual or group practice. Plus, there is an independent suite for yoga teachers and group leaders. Galapagos is famous for its volcanic landscapes and unique wildlife, but it can also be somewhere for you to rediscover your true and unique nature, somewhere you can feel yourself again... Best Price Guarantee For Direct Room Bookings & Hotel-Tour Packages.
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The Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel garners high marks for its exceptional service, with guests frequently lauding the staff's warm and helpful demeanor, particularly when organizing tours or addressing dietary requests. Nestled in a tranquil location that offers close encounters with wildlife, the property is celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and lush surroundings.
Reviewers cite the spacious and pristine rooms as ideal for families, while the hotel's value is noted as favorable, with affordable taxis and comprehensive packages that enhance the overall Galapagos experience.
Location
Secluded
Atmosphere
Tranquil
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Affordable
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Relaxing
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Based on the reviews we read before booking, we expected this hotel to be very good. It was actually even better than expected! Located in a tranquil spot about 20 minutes from town by taxi ($7), the grounds are full of tortoises; the rooms are comfortable and quiet; the common areas (living and dining rooms, porches, pool) are inviting, and the hospitality is beyond belief. We purchased the 8 day, 7 night package that included 4 guided tours and a few days on Santa Cruz on our own. The tours that were chosen were excellent -- highland tour with a great guide and 3 boat tours to different islands and snorkeling locations. We purchased a 4th snorkeling outing for one of our free days with guidance from the hotel. All were memorable and very well organized; none of the tours felt crowded or rushed. We had all our breakfasts and half of the other meals at the hotel (included in the package). The food and service were excellent. Kudos to the chefs and servers. Lastly, the hotel is managed by Cattya, who made the experience exceptional. She was welcoming, warm, informative, and always helpful. We will always be grateful for her role in making this a memorable vacation. This is what 5 stars really means!
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Date of stay: December 2023
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Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Location away from town worked great for us. It is in a quiet spot and easy and inexpensive to...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so glad that we didn’t choose to stay in town! We loved being in the interior of the island. The grounds were beautiful and the atmosphere relaxing and exciting at the same time. The food was incredible—coconut curry shrimp dinner was the best meal we had on the island. Cattya was warm, welcoming, helpful and knowledgeable. The drive to town was a nonissue for my family and well worth staying in this unique hotel. Highly recommend!!! I hope to be able to return one day.
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Date of stay: August 2023
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Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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My spouse and I loved everything about our stay at this idyllic lodge during late March/early April. The overwhelmingly positive reviews we read prior to our visit were definitely spot on. We purchased the 9 day/8 night package and it went off without a hitch. We loved meeting Saba upon our arrival and she promptly took us on walk of the manicured grounds where we met at least 5 tortoises! The first of many walks with Saba! Our Room 9 was such a quiet retreat above the trees that we did not want to leave the room. All our breakfasts and dinners were delicious and allowed us to meet and chat with other guests. The day trips were carefully planned and we so enjoyed our guides Stefanie, Daniel and the crew of the Sea Finch, as well as our cloud forest guide Duncan who taught us so much about the geology and history of the Galapagos and its wildlife. Last, but not definitely not least, is the incomparable Cattya who took such good care of us (along with her "ladies")! Cattya is a gracious, attentive host and we felt like we were her only lodgers during our stay. We cannot say enough good things about Cattya, the ladies, and Isidro who picked us up and dropped us at the airport. I wanted this vacation to be one where we just had to show up and everything was done for us, and that is exactly what we got! Be sure to include Semilla Verde in any trip to the amazing and unforgettable Galapagos Islands.
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Date of stay: March 2024
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel on the edge of Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos is a stunning and serene retreat. The property is beautifully maintained, and it's a unique experience to see giant turtles wandering freely around the property. The hotel offers delicious local dishes that truly capture the flavors of the region. The staff were incredibly friendly and went above and beyond, arranging all transportation to and from the airport and the city, making the stay seamless. It was a wonderful experience, and I would highly recommend this hidden gem for anyone visiting the Galapagos.
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Date of stay: September 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I loved everything about my stay at Semilla Verde. In fact I loved it so much that after staying 4 days I decided to extend my stay once back from a boat trip 7 days later. The spacious and comfortable rooms are located in two large houses, with plenty of space for relaxing alone or making friends with other guests around a drink or a cup of tea. Fresh drinking water, juices and teas are available all the time. The lush garden of trees and bushes that surrounds the two houses has a small pond and a swimming pool. You can walk around the entire property in the company of giant tortoises and a variety of birds. You will feel like a guest staying at a friend's house thanks to the care and attention of Cattya, the manager, and her team. Cattya is very friendly and professional, she will make you feel looked after and pampered and she will provide excellent advice for your excursions and trips around the island/s. Fresh meals are cooked every day by the team and served in the main lounge room at large tables. I really enjoyed sitting with other guests and exchanging experiences and addresses! I stayed in two different rooms, they were both lovely, had very comfortable beds and facilities, in fact they both felt like small apartments with beautiful balcony / terrace with chairs and a hammock to enjoy the view and the breeze. But I loved room 1 for its views, so if you have the opportunity to select that room I really recommend it! Semilla Verde is on the hill around BellaVista, not by the beach / Puerto Ayora. It's about 15 mins drive by taxi to Puerto Ayora, but there is an abundance of taxis at all times and it is super safe in the island so that is not a problem. In fact, you can enjoy the cooler temperature, the sound of nature and the view at Semilla Verde and then go to the beach by taxi to Puerto Ayora (to catch a boat to go to Playa de los Alemanos or to Tortuga Bay) or to El Garrpatero which is a beautiful beach not too far from the lodge. You can agree with the taxi driver to pick you up at a given time, it is custom over here so not stress. I really recommend Semilla Verde, you will feel at home away from home and maybe it will make you feel like extending your stay as it happened to me!
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Date of stay: January 2023
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Trip type: Travelled solo
Room Tip:If you prefer to be in town this is not for you. This lodge is on the hills, about 15 mins drive...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Absolutely the greatest experience! From the moment we arrived to the moment we departed we where meet with kindness and warmth. Robert and his staff were an absolute treasure, the hospitality the advice on what to see all the details were there. Not only would I highly suggest this location when you visit this beauty of an Island but I would say it may be the best on Santa Cruz. I greatly enjoyed the meals, they where cooked with the hight and status of any great restaurant (also may be the best food on the Island), the dinning area was perfect to relax and take a breath while enjoying the tranquil nature of the property. Speaking on the property, so many benefits! You have the turtles right there around you Frank and Oscar where a pleasure to marvel at and sketch! All the birds especially if you're up early enough to check out the migrations back or late enough for the same reasons. There are hiking trails a yoga studio and a really nice pool to take a chill dip in and take a pause in your very busy exploring schedules. We also had the hotel book us a trip to one of the neighboring Islands and I could not have been happier with the choice. The rooms where fantastic I felt like I was staying in my own little escape and it inspired future writings and drawings with the most genuine ease. To say that my creative nature was reignited would be an understatement. The only tip I would have is make sure you have the address on you when coming back home in the evening or very late night, some of the drivers (it was only one driver for us) may not be sure where about it is, however the next evening we had absolutely no issues, but if your Spanish is great then you'll have none at all. The cost of a taxi into and out of town is about 6 dollars as for the current day. All in all I could not be more pleased with this booking, I did a good amount of research before making my choice and I think the stay is absolutely perfection. The only thing I would change is book this hotel for my whole time on the Island of Santa Cruz! Thanks so much for the good memories Semillla Verde! Cheers! - Lana Nonstop
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Date of stay: March 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This hotel deserves all of the 5-star reviews it has received! The property is beautiful, with walkways surrounding it, and a yoga studio/ workout room overlooking a serene pond. The location is up in the highlands, so it's perfect if you prefer a quieter location without the noise of Puerto Ayora down on the south side of the island. This also means the weather is cooler, which is nice after a long day out on the water. The hotel itself is very nice, well kept, and clean. Far and away the most appealing part of Semilla Verde is the service and ease to book. We wanted to visit surrounding islands, and all of our bookings were handled by Robert and Cattya. They also made recommendations for restaurants, diving schools, and other on-island excursions. Working with Robert for initial booking was incredibly easy, and handled all via emails. He was very patient, and the information provided was all accurate and helpful for our travel. Cattya was so helpful whilst at the hotel, and really wants all of her guests to enjoy their stay. She sets up the tours, makes sure you know what the plan for your day is, and handles anything should something unexpected occur. The meals at the hotel were always delicious, and if you need any food allergy accommodations, the chef is more than helpful with adjusting your menu accordingly. Cab rides are easy to get so you can go into town, and just as easy to get back.
All in all, I would 100% stay here again.
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Date of stay: June 2023
Value
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Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This a a real gem of a small hotel, amidst the lush surrounds of Santa Cruz highlands were the tortoises run free. We stayed in a lovely spacious room in the main house with a outdoor area for hanging a hammock or just hanging out. We did the 7 day package, a combination of excursions and free days on Santa Cruz, arranged by the owner Robert. This seemed to be an ideal itinerary, lined up with excellent tour operators. We felt extremely welcomed and cared for by our host Cattya, who could not have been any more helpful and gracious. It is an easy 15 to 20 minute cab ride into town, where we found plentiful restaurant choices and appreciated Cattya's recommendations.
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Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We had an amazing week at Semilla Verde! The property is stunning, with walking paths throughout where we enjoyed encounters with local birds and giant tortoises. Incredible views from the room and the yoga space helped us feel completely immersed in nature. We felt completely supported throughout our stay: attentive staff prepared and served delicious meals, arranged massages, transportation & guided tours, and took great care to ensure our room was always clean & comfortable. It was really difficult to leave after such an incredible week. If you're considering a stay, don't hesitate -- just book it!
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Date of stay: February 2025
Value
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Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Semilla Verde exceeded our every expectation. We had the best time in the Galapagos and honestly I think most of the reason was the stellar service we had with Kat and her team. She made us feel so welcome and took care of all of our questions regarding logistics of tours and taxis. The rooms were beautiful and clean with gorgeous views. The food was simple yet elegant and delicious. I loved the fresh fruit juices and the meats were always cooked perfectly. The entire property was peaceful and quiet. We loved having happy hour on the patio and watching the giant tortoises munch on grass. After a long hot day of island tours we really enjoyed coming back to the quiet misty cloud forest. It was very easy to come and go into town and all of the taxi drivers were friendly and honest. We felt very safe at Semilla and really in all of the Galapagos and we can’t wait to go back!!
- I recommend requesting the highest rooms available for the views and signing up for as many tours as possible through Semilla. My personal favorite tour was to Bartolome Island. Jorge was our guide for our snorkeling tours and we loved him! Duncan did our highlands tour and he was also stellar, really knowledgeable about the Galapagos, and an excellent bird guide.
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Date of stay: July 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Personally we felt like July was a great time to go as it was warm enough to snorkel w wetsuit...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Robert Grimstone, Owner at Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel
Responded 21 Jul 2024
Thank you so much for your enthusiastic review of Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel. We're so glad to hear that you enjoyed the whole experience. Of course, with 5 hectares (12 acres) of private cloud forest with nature trails, roaming giant tortoises, native birdlife, swimming pool, yoga studio and swing set, there's always something to do whatever your age, adults or children! And, as you noted, our hotel-tour packages are perfectly balanced to offer you maximum exposure to Galapagos whilst also offering quality down time to relax and enjoy the sights at your own pace and on your own time. The packages obviously include the very best visits to nearby islands via full day boat tours and the must dos of Santa Cruz via half day guided tours, but also our own recommendations for self guided activities, such as beach visits. For larger groups such as family reunions, kosher or special interest groups such as yoga we provide fully inclusive packages with a full itinerary of tours and activities and all the meals included, all tweaked to your exact requirements. We can provide for all diets including vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, kosher, gluten free, dairy free, etc. We pride ourselves in being flexible to meet everyone's requirements and thereby give you the most comfortable, enjoyable and tailored Galapagos experience possible. We very much look forward to welcoming you all back very soon. Our very warmest regards, Robert, Cattya & the SV Team.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dear Steven,
Thank you for choosing Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel.
The hotel can organize a private transfer for up to four people for $60- e/w. That includes a driver who will be doing an almost 100km round trip from Puerto Ayora to pick you up at the airport. He will personally escort and will take charge of your bags from the airport, transferring them between the bus, ferry and taxi to the hotel.
This whole process takes just over an hour from when you leave the airport. However, if you are happy to negotiate it yourselves (beware, it can be rather overwhelming with so many other people doing the same), then you can do so for about half the price.
After passing through customs you will need to wait about 30 minutes in the airport whilst the bags are offloaded, then take a 15 minute free bus ride from the airport to ‘Itabaca Canal’ that will take you to Santa Cruz Island via ferry. This crossing takes 10 minutes and will cost $1 per person. Once on the other side of the canal, take a taxi or bus to “Hotel Semilla Verde”.
There is a small signpost outside the property on the main road. Take a right turn down the track and the entrance is 200 metres down on the right hand side. The taxi will cost you $25 and drop you directly at the hotel (highly recommended). The bus will cost around $3- per person but will leave you on the main road and you will have to lug your bags down the driveway.
There is no car hire on the islands. Rather, the taxis are the usual mode of transport and cost just $1.50/trip within the town limits / $7 e/w from the hotel to Puerto Ayora.
I hope this information is of use. Please let me know if you have any further questions.
Warm regards,
Robert.
There are more places to choose from in the Puerto Ayora area.
PRICE RANGE
₹14,753 - ₹19,213 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
semilla verde galapagos hotel puerto ayora
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Semilla Verde Galapagos Lodge
LOCATION
EcuadorGalapagos IslandsSanta CruzPuerto Ayora
NUMBER OF ROOMS
10
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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