Galapagos Magic Camp

Highlands accommodation with no frills but plenty of thrills...

Three hearts from 4 votes

Facilities tabs

Review

With countless, free-roaming Giant Tortoises and sweeping views across the south-west corner of Santa Cruz Island to the Pacific ocean,it is easy to look past the somewhat basic accommodation and facilities. The Galapagos Magic Camp is a very different entity compared to the islands’ other properties; and is more about local creatures rather than creature comforts. This is very much a place for those looking to connect with nature rather than Wi-Fi. Stunning sunset views, underground dining and a high chance of tripping over (literally) a Giant Tortoise on the way to your treehouse are all in a days work here…just be prepared for the occasional cold shower!

Location

Be prepared: The Galapagos Magic Camp is not easy to access. Once across the Itabaca channel from Baltra airport, the drive south is around 30 minutes. The dirt road turning that descends down to the property is long, steep and bumpy. The main town of Puerto Ayora is a further 20 minutes to the south (once back up the track!).

Layout

Once down the access road, it opens onto a huge plot of land with sweeping views of Santa Cruz’s coast. The Meadow Bar is central, with the cabanas (tents) behind and the treehouses further down the slope. The grassy meadow is littered with Giant Tortoise! On the opposite side of the plot are the 3 bungalows and the wonderfully atmospheric, subterranean D’Cave Restaurant.

Rooms

There are six Cabanas, essentially large tents on raised decking, all of which feature an en-suite and front porch with views to the ocean. The four treehouses are a more simple affair, with beds, a basin and a toilet. A facility block with showers is a short walk from the treehouses. The property also includes 3 adobe-style bungalows, which overlook the whole property. These are more spacious and luxurious, but not always available to guests.

Features

The Galapagos Magic Camp relies more on natural features rather than additional facilities. This is epitomised by the truly unique D’Cave Restaurant, serving delicious meals inside a natural cave on the property. Simple furniture and low lighting really add to the experience; and there is also the Lava Lounge bar in there, should you wish to have a nightcap a la Batman. Above ground, the Meadow Bar is a bright, open-sided social area overlooking the land and offers an idyllic location to watch the spectacular sunsets. And did we mention the roaming tortoises?!

Facilities