At the heart of the Giant Tortoise land,
find the coziest tailor-made
experience of refined and sustainable
hospitality in the Galápagos
Archipelago.

 
 
 
 
  EXCELLENT  
  
 Based on 192 reviews 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Craig W 
 
2 November 2026
 
 
 Verified 
Best Villa & Staff Ever!
My daughter, husband and I spent glorious days at Montemar! The owners and hosts Reyna and Roberto were world class; every detail was perfect and every need anticipated. The food was absolutely delicious, and the staff was so kind and welcoming it was truly like being with loved ones. Their recommendations were creative and provided exactly the experience we were dreaming of. I simply cannot rate this luxury villa highly enough and their commitment to the environment, all the creatures (especially the tortoises) was evident. They all LOVE what they do, love the Galapagos and Ecuador and have extraordinary pride, history and stories. If you have the opportunity to go, do it. This is a once in a lifetime experience. - Carol
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Tommy A 
 
26 October 2026
 
 
 Verified 
Best Place I Have Ever Stayed
My wife and I had wanted to go to the Galapagos for a very long time. We did not want to tour by cruise boat but wanted to stay on one island and explore other islands as day trips. I cannot recommend Montemar enough. I did a lot of research and was very impressed with Roberto, Reyna and their team's vision and focus on sustainability and local ingredients. I had very high expectations and the Montemar team surpassed everyone of them. The cost includes everything, VIP access, all meals (Juanito is an amazing chef, all the meals were incredible) and lodging at one of two villas on a 43-acre tortoise reserve (Carolina and Tiffany were awesome and made us feel at home). We went at the end of October and saw a ton of tortoises! The cost also includes day trips with a world class guide! Our guide was also named Carolina and was amazing and we had wildlife encounters that made us feel like we were in a nature documentary! Roberto welcomed us and took us on a tour of the property to see the tortoises, their impressive garden and the coffee farm, the coffee is great as well. Roberto also came every afternoon/evening and would chat with us about our experience that day and let us know what the itinerary for the following day was! They treated us like friends and family, and this was the BEST place that I have ever stayed! Thank you, Tommy and Kim
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Craig S 
 
20 October 2026
 
 
 Verified 
Very special...nothing like it.
Giant tortoises everywhere in an unbelievable environment filled with surprises. There is nothing that compares anywhere to the magic of Montemar where every detail is thoughtfully planned and expertly delivered with care and the personal touch of Reyna & Roberto in a place that is beyond description. A wonderful experience.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 tls5446 
 
16 October 2026
 
 
 Verified 
I would definitely go back and have recommended to friends
It’s hard to believe it’s been two weeks since we left Montemar! Our stay was the perfect end to an action packed vacation. Hearing the story of how Reyna and Robert have restored the land to such a special place for migrating tortoise and are willing to share it with guests was so special. We saw the chef in the garden picking out what you’ll have for dinner. The staff were so attentive to your needs. Sitting on the back porch, watching the tortoise, listening to the sounds of the birds, horses, and all the wildlife was so relaxing. If you want a place to decompress, relax, with hosts that want you to have the best experience … Montemar is for you!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Jack N 
 
27 August 2026
 
 
 Verified 
Best for families and exclusive travel to Galápagos
We were at Montemar in April 2026. There's lots of ways to see Galápagos. Cruise ships, yachts, day trips. But you may want a quiet, private, family oriented trip, away from the noise and bustle of regular tours. Montemar is exclusive. Montemar Villas is superb. Small scale, perfect for families. Smooth graveled paths lead among the sights where the main attraction is the iconic giant Galápagos tortoises. The manicured paths made a big difference for me, hobbling on a cane. We enjoyed outstanding meals served family style direct from the chef's station. Can't get any fresher than organic fruits and vegetables direct from the kitchen garden, and eggs from their own chickens. We had fresh ocean fish perfectly cooked and seasoned. The chef really loves his work and it shows. This is a genuinely low-impact operation. Their monolithic construction technique uses minimal cement and suits beautiful architecture. They even run their own composting and many other environmental details. The rooms are spacious, well ventilated, all with broad views of the green lands. The facilities are modern, the beds big and comfortable, and everything spotless. Service is impeccable and warm, including by your hosts who both are experienced Galápagos National Park naturalist guides. They have a special way with the children in your group, leading them through the meaning of places like Galápagos and the importance of wildlife. And Roberto plays acoustic guitar and sings mellow.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 80801 
 
18 August 2026
 
 
 Verified 
Thanks for the wonderful time!
Thank you (Roberto & Reyna) for the great time. Montemar is a place where quietude, experiences and wonderful hospitality mix perfectly well. It is one the best places we have been to when traveling. Send our best regards to the giant turtles in the garden.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Soyeon Y 
 
13 August 2026
 
 
 Verified 
Amazing Experience and Stay. Just Book It.
Montemar is actually magical! This place deserves 10,000 stars for the experience, location, lodging, views, grounds, hospitality, food, and etc...and then another 20,000 stars for the people, mission, and heart that they have. Favorite parts: - The grounds and the villa itself - stunning design and even more beautiful with its green eco design/intentionality - Seeing the full breadth of stars during night time - Walking around the grounds and sharing the path with giant tortoises - Amazing excursions and Carolina was an amazing, patient, and knowledgeable guide - Trips to local artisans - THE FOOD. My only complaint was that they didn't sell the hot sauce and mushroom sauce they made. Shoutout to Juanito. - Waking up to sounds and sights of birds, horses, tortoises, the ocean, and the grounds In addition to that, the villa and rooms are so lovely, clean, well designed, and felt like home. Run (after your flight to the mainland, layover, flight to Baltra, bus to the marina, boat to Santa Cruz, and bus to Montemar) don't walk to Montemar!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Katya P 
 
13 August 2026
 
 
 Verified 
A truly exceptional stay
If I could give Montemar more than five stars, I would. I stayed in 5 hotels across the Galápagos with my family this summer and Montemar was our firm favourite! This was so much more than a stay in the Galápagos, it was an immersive, deeply personal experience that left us feeling genuinely connected to the islands, their wildlife, their people and the community that Montemar works so hard to support. From the moment we arrived, the attention to detail was exceptional. The VIP arrival experience by passing all queues at the airport was wonderful, the beautiful property, the incredible food and, above all, the warmth of the people made us feel like family rather than guests. Reyna and Roberto, the owners, have created something incredibly special. Their passion for the Galápagos is infectious, and every experience felt thoughtful, authentic and meaningful. Our farm visit with Reyna was a highlight. We learnt about companion planting, natural pest control, herbs, composting with microorganisms and the fascinating way the property works with the natural environment. We tasted herbs straight from the garden, learnt about the architecture of the buildings and even heard the story of the daily rooster who arrives on a motorbike to fertilise the hens’ eggs before heading off to a neighbour for the night so he doesn’t disturb guests! The food deserves a special mention. Juanito is an amazing cook, creating beautiful meals using ingredients grown around the property. Mari Mari fish, kitchen-garden salads and flambé bananas with chocolate were unforgettable. The children loved making mocktails with Juanito using lemons, lemongrass and flowers from the garden and pizza night was a favourite! But what really sets Montemar apart is the connection to the wider community and the incredible conservation work behind the scenes. Through their support or Fuente Insular, we met Alberto and local volunteers who collect microplastics from the coastline. We turned some of the collected plastic into art and jewellery while hearing extraordinary stories about conservation, community resilience and life in the Galápagos. We also learnt how Montemar and its partners helped provide food packages to around 5,000 people during the pandemic, including how their avocado tree on the property became an unexpected lifeline when food was scarce. We cycled through the beautiful dry forest towards Puerto Ayora with our fantastic guide Federico who our boys adored, visited Tortuga Bay, saw tortoises, sea lions, rays, herons and so much incredible birdlife, and learnt about the delicate ecosystems that make the Galápagos so special. We explored volcanic landscapes, saw marine iguanas, penguins, sharks, turtles and jumping manta rays, and finished each day with Reyna’s wonderful review of what we’d experience the following day. Even the little things were extraordinary. When Tiffany noticed we’d caught a little too much sun, she collected aloe vera from around the property and Juanito turned it into an ointment for us. We were also offered electrolytes without ever asking. Those tiny, instinctive acts of care made us feel genuinely looked after. Montemar has a wonderful philosophy of sustainable, environmentally sympathetic architecture and uses local materials wherever possible, lava rock, wood, bamboo and natural techniques that help reduce humidity and work with the island’s climate rather than against it. And then there’s Monty, the resident tortoise, who likes to nest by the front door every day. We were sad to say goodbye to him! What stayed with us most was the sense that every experience had a purpose. Whether it was learning about endemic species, collecting microplastics, supporting local artisans, understanding traditional practices, exploring the farm, making art from waste or simply sharing a meal together, we never felt like passive tourists. We felt connected. Montemar is a place that allows you to understand the islands ecology, history, people, challenges and extraordinary beauty and wildlife in a way that a conventional hotel simply cannot. A huge thank you to Reyna, Roberto, Pico, Juanito, Carolina, Tiffany and everyone at Montemar for making our stay so unforgettable. We arrived as guests and left feeling like part of the family. Absolutely exceptional. We couldn’t recommend Montemar highly enough. Five stars doesn’t feel like enough. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Andy R 
 
12 August 2026
 
 
 Verified 
A Place That Heals You
I honestly had no idea what I was in for when I arrived at Montemar. And then I discovered something magical. Montemar heals you. Every detail feels intentional, created with love, care, and purpose. The cleanliness, the beauty, and the genuine care of the entire staff are evident everywhere you look. Nothing feels accidental. And then there is the silence. Not an empty silence, but a living one—punctuated by crickets, birds, the occasional neigh of wild horses, and even the gentle sounds of tortoises making their way through the property. You find yourself slowing down. Breathing differently. Becoming present. There is so much I could say, and so much to thank and praise. But somehow, words don’t quite capture what this place does to you. I am actually tearing up as I write this. My mind and body are already saying, “Take me back.” There is a healthy, and somehow addictive, sense of belonging that the Plaza family and everyone at Montemar create. You don’t simply feel like a guest. You feel welcomed, cared for, and somehow part of something bigger. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Roberto, Reyna, Caro, Tiff, and the entire team. You have created something truly special. I WILL BE BACK. And honestly… I might not leave. :)
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
  
 
 
 Juan Sio Guie 
 
10 August 2026
 
 
 Verified 
Everything about Montemar exceeded expectations!
Everything, including accomodations, service and hospitality exceeded expectations! We will definitely be back! Great place for all ages and interests.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
  EXCELLENT  
  
 Based on 34 reviews 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Tommy Adkins 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
My wife and I had wanted to go to the Galapagos for a very long time.  We did not want to tour by cruise boat but wanted to stay on one island and explore other islands as day trips.  I cannot recommend Montemar enough.  I did a lot of research and was very impressed with Roberto, Reyna and their team's vision and focus on sustainability and local ingredients.  I had very high expectations and the Montemar team surpassed everyone of them.  The cost includes everything, VIP access, all meals (Juanito is an amazing chef, all the meals were incredible) and lodging at one of two villas on a 43-acre tortoise reserve (Carolina and Tiffany were awesome and made us feel at home).  We went at the end of October and saw a ton of tortoises!  The cost also includes day trips with a world class guide!  Our guide was also named Carolina and was amazing and we had wildlife encounters that made us feel like we were in a nature documentary!  Roberto welcomed us and took us on a tour of the property to see the tortoises, their impressive garden and the coffee farm, the coffee is great as well.  Roberto also came every afternoon/evening and would chat with us about our experience that day and let us know what the itinerary for the following day was!  They treated us like friends and family, and this was the BEST place that I have ever stayed!  Thank you, Tommy and Kim
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Francesco Pucci 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Montemar private villas are situated on a tortoise reserve and organic coffee farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz, owned by Reyna and Roberto. Their passion for conservation and their generous spirit make each day on the islands special. They will plan a full inclusive itinerary including national park guides for you according to your desired activity levels and preferences -- boat trips to neighboring islands including Bartolome and Plaza; snorkeling with fish, sea lions, sea turtles, and small reef sharks; land hikes on Santa Cruz to Tortuga bay and Las Grietas; trips into Puerta Ayora and work with local artisans; relaxing and renewing options like yoga at a private studio on the property, massages, coffee and chocolate tasting, and bike rides through the highlands. The villas include a private chef creating a culinary tour of Ecuador--the meals are truly a highlight featuring produce from the property's own organic garden. A private driver takes you throughout the island, to and from the airport. Returning to the cooler highlands after days out in the sun, and being surrounded by many dozens of tortoises, was a special experience every afternoon! There is a two- and four-bedroom villa, could be an excellent location for both couples and families.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Ines Gabaldon 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Once-in-a-lifetime experience!

I just returned from Montemar with my partner. We're both well traveled and, between us, have explored much of the world. Our week at Montemar now sits at the very top of the list of the most extraordinary travel experiences we've ever had.

Waking up surrounded by Giant Tortoises roaming the property is a daily reminder that this is an experience unique to Galápagos, and one that makes Montemar truly unforgettable.

The staff, starting with Reyna and Roberto, the owners, and including the incredible Juan, Tiffani, Carolina, and many others, make sure you feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for. Their attention to detail and personalized service are unlike any hospitality experience I've had.

Every meal is prepared to the highest standard, which is saying a lot coming from a self-declared foodie who has had Lima's world-class gastronomy as her daily benchmark for more than a decade.

Swimming in Las Grietas early in the morning, spending time at Tortuga Bay or Garrapatero beaches, and snorkeling near Bartolomé while playful sea lions chose to swim with our group, are just some of the highlights. As a Master Scuba Diver, I'd never experienced sea lions choosing to play with me like this, making eye contact so naturally. Another reminder of the experiences that exist only in Galápagos.

Yet the most special part of this trip was the connections with the people and with all the unique elements that make Montemar such an extraordinary place. It helped me understand these islands through the eyes of the people who not only protect them, but also inspire the fortunate travelers they welcome to deepen their relationship with nature.

We're already counting the days until we can come back.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 C C 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
My family of 5(3 teenagers) just returned from a week at Montemar with Roberto and Reyna. It was a splendid, unique vacation for many reasons.  First, Roberto and Reyna are incredible gracious hosts who opened their lives to us. They are two inspiring citizens of the world who arranged conversations with the conservationists and scientists, who in turn shared so much firsthand knowledge with our family. Reyna and Robert also    took great care of us … even arranging an unprompted late doctor’s visit for my husband for a fall he experienced in Quito.  Reyna led our entire family in multiple yoga sessions, led a coffee and chocolate tasting and uniquely curated our experience.  Now the property and grounds: the Garden of Eden.  Giant tortoises walking the land among horses, birds, a coffee plantation, and organic farm. Waking up to the sounds of nature and closing out each day from the deck on hammocks under the stars was a cleansing ritual for us.  Villa Tortuga was incredible - so beautiful and comfortable for all.  The food - to die for! We knew meals were included but we didn’t realize we had a private chef - Juan - cooking every meal for us in the villa.  Each meal and appetizer was beautiful curated and absolutely delicious.  Every culinary item was divine and presentation, art.  Craft cocktails available to order, wine and beer.  Each and every staff member of Montemar was delightful and kind.  Logistics were 100% taken care of, we didn’t have to think about anything. All the excursions were very well run, professional companies - best scuba diving experience we have ever had.  And our naturalist guide, Luis, who accompanied us for the week, was a joy to be with and so informative.  Despite each day being filled with activities, we left feeling so rested and centered.  It was hard to leave paradise with Reyna and Roberto, but we will return.   Absolutely a life changing experience.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Noura El Eid 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I have traveled a fair bit in my life, but the Galapagos and Monte Mar stand out as the most inspiring and wondrous trip to date.

The owners of Monte Mar, Reyna and Roberto, are gracious and kind hosts and have accomplished something beautiful and special in this place.  They are true stewards of the earth and strive not only to make guests feel like family, but to be teachers of the local culture, history, and ecology.

This trip was as much educational as it was relaxing and inspiring.  I learned so much about sustainable (and luxurious!) living, living in harmony with nature and its creatures, organic coffee farming :), among other things.

The Galapagos is like no other place on earth and I could write a book about our adventures outside the Monte Mar grounds.  However, even if we had never left the grounds of Monte Mar, the week long trip would have been well worth it!

The Monte Mar house staff were exceptional - Juanito, our gifted chef, and all the members of the household team - Tiffany, Carolina and Alonso - made each of our meal times and evenings so comfortable and restorative after the days hikes, boat trips, snorkeling, and visits to town to take in the work of local environmentalists and artisans.

I am full of gratitude and hope to return again some day - this time, with even more of the family!  Thank you!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Dan Devers 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Montemar is truly exceptional. The food was remarkably good, the accommodations are top notch and the curated experiences are authentic and memorable. The owners and staff are warm and inviting. Couldn’t recommend this more.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Andrea Grant 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Montemar is one of those rare places that quietly exceeds every expectation. The setting alone is extraordinary. The property (which is actually two villas—one larger and one smaller) is perched above the coast, surrounded by nature, with sweeping views and frequent wildlife encounters that make you feel fully immersed in the Galápagos rather than simply visiting.
Giant tortoises roam freely all over the property, often wandering (very, very slowly) past rooms or resting along the paths, making it feel less like a hotel and more like a living ecosystem.

The property was originally designed as a fully sustainable farm and tortoise sanctuary, and that philosophy still shapes everything—from how the land is cared for to how guests are welcomed into the space.

What truly sets Montemar apart is the heart behind it. Reyna and Roberto, the owners, are the soul of the place. From the moment you arrive, they make you feel less like a guest and more like family. Their warmth, generosity, and pride in what they’ve built create an atmosphere that is deeply personal and genuinely special.

That care extends well beyond the property. Reyna and Roberto thoughtfully design personalized, private daily excursion itineraries tailored to your interests and pace, each led by an exceptionally knowledgeable naturalist. These days feel curated rather than packaged, and are rich in learning, wildlife encounters, and insight, without ever feeling rushed or generic.

Back at Montemar, that same sense of connection continues. Whether it’s being invited into their garden to pick fresh ingredients for your salad, or learning about their coffee on a plantation tour (and subsequent super fun coffee tasting), these experiences feel shared rather than staged and deepen your connection to the land and the people who steward it.

The staff are kind and intuitive, the food, prepared by Chef Juan, is outstanding—authentic, fresh, thoughtful, and rooted in what’s grown on the property. The rooms themselves are airy, spacious, spotless, and incredibly peaceful.

Despite its focus on sustainability and nature, Montemar somehow feels simultaneously like an understated five-star luxury resort and a warm, welcoming family home: elegant and comfortable, deeply personal, and completely unpretentious.

Montemar isn’t just where you stay in the Galápagos—it becomes part of how you remember it. We cannot wait to return someday.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 rachel hudman 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
It’s hard to express how wonderful this place is! Roberto and the team at Montemar provided an EXCEPTIONAL stay and made us feel like family. Unfortunately, Rayna was out of town for a family matter, so we did not get to meet her, which just means we will have to return for another stay. The attention to detail from the property management, experiences, wildlife, sustainability, conservation, coffee, farm to table food, and hospitality are unmatched. The property is the perfect place to take in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands and relax. Additionally, Luis provided such amazing excursions, which was even better due to his expertise about the islands.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Shane Witnov 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I can’t say enough good things about Montemar, but most especially Reyna and Roberto who built it.  Montemar is a project of love and that comes through in everything about it.  They had a dream about supporting the local community, the environment, and the giant tortoises and built Montemar to do that.  You get to stay in a beautiful house, with expansive views across Santa Cruz, crafted from local materials and surrounded by Giant Tortoises.  Reyna will lead you in morning yoga.  They will bring in local experts and experts to join your dinner.  They grow most of their produce in a garden a stone’s throw from the house.  The staff cater to everything you need and make the most amazing food.  Our days were customized to exactly what we wanted better than we could have articulated.  One member of our group had some trouble walking and they went above and beyond to enable him to see as much of the Galapagos as possible and be included and comfortable.  We had the trip of a lifetime.  I cannot recommend Montemar highly enough.  It is a truly special place.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Kristin Kender 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
There aren't sufficient words to describe the magnificence of Montemar.  Reyna & Roberto's commitment to sustainability is inspirational and one we should all strive to achieve.  I was able to enjoy the luxury of my stay even more, knowing that Montemar provides it through environmentally-friendly means.

The hospitality and attention to detail of all of the staff is extraordinary.  Juan's culinary creations are spectacular and give you a taste of Ecuadorian cuisine from all of the country's different regions.

If you are fortunate enough to travel to the Galapagos Islands, I would HIGHLY recommend staying at Montemar.  You will truly be in awe!