Lodge with a view
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Scalesia Lodge

Safari-style tented resort situated on the slopes of a shield volcano in Isabela Island's highlands.

Overview

Scalesia Lodge, situated on the slopes of a volcano in Isabela Island’s highlands, is a safari-style tent resort. A total of sixteen luxuriously comfortable tents are nestled in nearly 40 acres of private forest on the island’s south side.

Life At Scalesia Lodge Galapagos

An unforgettable experience awaits you at Scalesia Lodge, which opened in 2015. The innovative lodge allows you to fully connect with nature while also cocooning you in peace and comfort. Just nine miles and a 20-minute journey from the town of Puerto Villamil, the lodge is easy to access yet feels a world away from civilization.

In addition to your private tent, with either a king-size bed or two full-size beds, you will have access to three social areas where you can relax, read, bird watch, and soak in the unique landscape spilling out before you. Wrap-around decks, including a private one at your tent, put the forest front-and-center, so you will never miss a wildlife moment.

While the exterior of your tent may look rustic, the interior is chic and modern. The modern styling continues to the main lodge, with features a restaurant and conference room. You will also enjoy first-class service throughout your stay.

Excursions From Scalesia Lodge Isabela Island Ecuador

Though it may be tempting to observe Isabela Island’s wildlife from the comfort of the lodge, there is a full range of activities to help you explore the island on a deeper island. Tintoreras, an islet formed by lava flows, is reached via a 10-minute dinghy ride. Once there, slip on your snorkel and take a swim with penguins, marine iguanas, and sea lions.

Take another snorkeling trip to The Tunnels to swim beneath natural lava bridges that arch over the water and, hopefully, see white-tipped reef sharks. You may also visit Sucre’s Cave, hike to the summit of the Sierra Negra volcano, kayak to see penguins, bike to a flamingo breeding center, and visit the historic Wall of Tears.

In-Depth Exploration Of Isabela Island

While many explorations of the Galapagos Islands sample from many different islands, a stay at Scalesia Lodge encourages you to get to know Isabela Island on a deeper level. The island, which is home to six volcanoes, is the most pristine of the four inhabited islands in the archipelago. Endemic wildlife, including famed blue-footed boobies, herons, flamingoes, and tropical birds, fill every corner of the island, making it one of the planet’s most ecologically diverse places.

A stay at Scalesia Lodge offers opportunities for unexpected animal encounters, and you are sure to return home with tales of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From surfing to birdwatching, Scalesia Lodge provides near-endless ways to experience Isabela Island. For guest that wish to discover other areas of the Galapagos, island-hopping tours allow you to mix and match experiences to create your dream holiday.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

1 / 2
4-Day
5-Day

4 Day - Amazing Isabela

itinerary map

Arrival, Tintoreras, Los Humedales & Tortoise Breeding Station

AM: Morning visit to the Tintoreras, an islet formed by lava flows located 10 minutes by dinghy from Puerto Villamil. Its name comes from the white tip reef sharks called in Spanish “Tintoreras” which are frequently seen in this area. Different species of animals can be seen in the area as sea lions, marine iguanas, and penguins. This is a perfect place to practice snorkeling. Return to the hotel by lunchtime.

PM: In the afternoon visit Los Humedales, a complex with various trails where you can find the four species of mangroves existing in Galapagos. This area is characterized by solitary beaches, lava tunnels, natural pools, and estuaries where you can see flamingos and other birds. You will also visit the Turtle breeding center where the National Park is breeding turtles in danger of extinction. Some of these giant turtles have been released by the park and can be found on the trails. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge.

Scalesia Lodge's 4-Day Amazing Isabela Program Day One - Treetop Views.
Location
Puerto Villamil - Scalesia Lodge
Day
1 / 4

Los Tuneles & Beach Activities

AM: A 40-minute ride on a small fast boat will take us to a unique place where lava flow has been impacted for many years by the ocean waves. This has formed the unique tubes and bridges of Los Tuneles. This visiting site is a marine paradise for white-tipped reef sharks, Galápagos green sea turtle, the Galápagos sea lions, manta rays, parrotfish, yellowtail surgeonfish among many others. One of the best places to snorkel in Isabela and the Galapagos, the water is very calmed, clear, and shallow. Besides being a marine sanctuary it is characterized by its unique geologic formations, a series of lava flows have produced many arches and tunnels both under and above water, where you find several animal species that have taken up residence in these magnificent formations. Many birds, such as bobbies can also be found. Return to Scalesia Lodge for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon free time to enjoy the magical beach of Puerto Villamil or enjoy one of the following activities for extra cost: biking, surfing, or kayaking. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge.

Scalesia Lodge's 4-Day Amazing Isabela Program Day Two - Out on Excursion.
Location
Scalesia Lodge
Day
2 / 4

Volcan Chico, Sierra Negra, Cueva de Sucre, Mirador & Beach

AM: Today you will visit some of Isabela´s best attractions, the Sierra Negra and Chico Volcano. Sierra Negra is one of the most active volcanoes of the archipelago, its recent eruption took place in 2005. The volcano’s crater is considered the second largest in the world with a diameter of 10kms. Volcan Chico is also an active volcano, sulfur vents can be seen in this area. This is an approximately 6-hour walk tour to appreciate all the splendor of the volcanoes. You will enjoy a snack in the area. Return to Scalesia Lodge for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon visit to Sucre´s cave, located 14km of Villamil Port, placed in the agricultural area of the Island. Enjoy a short walk to appreciate the typical vegetation and endemic plants. Continue to Mirador de Mango from where you have panoramic views of southern Isabela and the agricultural area. This is also a place for finch birds’ observation. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge.

Scalesia Lodge's 4-Day Amazing Isabela Program Day Three - Hike to Viewpoint.
Location
Scalesia Lodge
Day
3 / 4

Tintoreras & Departing

AM: Tintoreras: Morning visit to the Tintoreras, an islet formed by lava flows located 10 minutes by dinghy from Puerto Villamil. Its name comes from the white tip reef sharks called in Spanish “Tintoreras” which are frequently seen in this area. Different species of animals can be seen in the area as sea lions, marine iguanas, and penguins. This is a perfect place to practice snorkeling. Return to the hotel by lunchtime.

PM: In the afternoon prep yourself for your transfer to the airport as you wave goodbye to the beautiful Scalesia Lodge.

Scalesia Lodge's 4-Day Amazing Isabela Program Day Four - Marine Iguana Sighting.
Location
Scalesia Lodge - Puerto Villamil
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

5 Day - Amazing Isabela

itinerary map

Arrival, Tintoreras, Los Humedales & Tortoise Breeding Station

AM: Morning visit to the Tintoreras, an islet formed by lava flows located 10 minutes by dinghy from Puerto Villamil. Its name comes from the white tip reef sharks called in Spanish “Tintoreras” which are frequently seen in this area. Different species of animals can be seen in the area as sea lions, marine iguanas, and penguins. This is a perfect place to practice snorkeling. Return to the hotel by lunchtime.

PM: In the afternoon visit Los Humedales, a complex with various trails where you can find the four species of mangroves existing in Galapagos. This area is characterized by solitary beaches, lava tunnels, natural pools, and estuaries where you can see flamingos and other birds. You will also visit the Turtle breeding center where the National Park is breeding turtles in danger of extinction. Some of these giant turtles have been released by the park and can be found on the trails. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge.

Scalesia Lodge's 5-Day Amazing Isabela Program Day One -  Treetop Views.
Location
Puerto Villamil - Scalesia Lodge
Day
1 / 5

Los Tuneles & Beach Activities

AM: A 40-minute ride on a small fast boat will take us to a unique place where lava flow has been impacted for many years by the ocean waves. This has formed the unique tubes and bridges of Los Tuneles. This visiting site is a marine paradise for white-tipped reef sharks, Galápagos green sea turtle, the Galápagos sea lions, manta rays, parrotfish, yellowtail surgeonfish among many others. One of the best places to snorkel in Isabela and the Galapagos, the water is very calmed, clear, and shallow. Besides being a marine sanctuary it is characterized by its unique geologic formations, a series of lava flows have produced many arches and tunnels both under and above water, where you find several animal species that have taken up residence in these magnificent formations. Many birds, such as bobbies can also be found. Return to Scalesia Lodge for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon free time to enjoy the magical beach of Puerto Villamil or enjoy one of the following activities for extra cost: biking, surfing, or kayaking. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge.

Scalesia Lodge's 5-Day Amazing Isabela Program Day Two - Out on Excursion.
Location
Scalesia Lodge
Day
2 / 5

Volcan Chico, Sierra Negra, Cueva de Sucre, Mirador & Beach

AM: Today you will visit some of Isabela´s best attractions, the Sierra Negra and Chico Volcano. Sierra Negra is one of the most active volcanoes of the archipelago, its recent eruption took place in 2005. The volcano’s crater is considered the second largest in the world with a diameter of 10kms. Volcan Chico is also an active volcano, sulfur vents can be seen in this area. This is an approximately 6-hour walk tour to appreciate all the splendor of the volcanoes. You will enjoy a snack in the area. Return to Scalesia Lodge for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon visit to Sucre´s cave, located 14km of Villamil Port, placed in the agricultural area of the Island. Enjoy a short walk to appreciate the typical vegetation and endemic plants. Continue to Mirador de Mango from where you have panoramic views of southern Isabela and the agricultural area. This is also a place for finch birds’ observation. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge.

Scalesia Lodge's 5-Day Amazing Isabela Program Day Three - Hike to Viewpoint.
Location
Scalesia Lodge
Day
3 / 5

Tintoreras, Los Humedales and Tortoise Breeding Station

AM: Morning visit to the Tintoreras, an islet formed by lava flows located 10 minutes by dinghy from Puerto Villamil. Its name comes from the white tip reef sharks called in Spanish “Tintoreras” which are frequently seen in this area. Different species of animals can be seen in the area as sea lions, marine iguanas, and penguins. This is a perfect place to practice snorkeling. Return to the hotel by lunchtime.

PM: In the afternoon visit Los Humedales, a complex with various trails where you can find the four species of mangroves existing in Galapagos. This area is characterized by solitary beaches, lava tunnels, natural pools, and estuaries where you can see flamingos and other birds. You will also visit the Turtle breeding center where the National park is breeding turtles in danger of extinction. Some of these giant turtles have been released by the park and can be found on the trails. Overnight at Scalesia Lodge.

Scalesia Lodge's 5-Day Amazing Isabela Program Day Four - Marine Iguana Sighting.
Location
Scalesia Lodge
Day
4 / 5

Departing

AM: In the morning prep yourself for your transfer to the airport as you wave goodbye to the beautiful Scalesia Lodge. If you have time in your schedule, we can organise an additional optional excursion in the morning, taking you to the port after lunch.

Scalesia Lodge's 5-Day Amazing Isabela Program Day Five - Walking Excursion.
Location
Scalesia Lodge - Puerto Villam
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

Accommodations

Social Areas

Tents Bathroom
Outdoor Breakfast
Dining Room
Glamping
Indoor Lounge
Main Hall
Observation Area
Outdoor Lounge
Reception
Tent Interior
Indoor Lounge
Main Building Bath
Meal Time
Social Area
Bathroom interior
Breakfast table outdoors
Tables at the Dining Room
Exterior
Indoor Lounge table and armchairs
Interior
Outdoors space
Armchairs outdoors
table on sofa
Interior of a luxury tent
Indoor Lounge sitting area
Bathroom
People at tables
Sofa and table

Suites & Cabins

Scalesia Lodge - Standard Tent Scalesia Lodge - Standard Tent Scalesia Lodge - Standard Tent Scalesia Lodge - Standard Tent Scalesia Lodge - Standard Tent Scalesia Lodge - Standard Tent Scalesia Lodge - Standard Tent Scalesia Lodge - Standard Tent
12 Cabins

Standard Tent

Guests
2 - 3
Size
30 m² / 323 ft²
Beds
Double/Twin

Located in the most pristine Archipelago Islands, these tents spell peace and comfort. The interiors are chic and modern, where you can relax. The tent also features French doors that open to a unique landscape where you can see wildlife.

Scalesia Lodge - Suite Scalesia Lodge - Suite Scalesia Lodge - Suite Scalesia Lodge - Suite
4 Cabins

Suite

Guests
2
Size
30 m² / 323 ft²
Beds
King

Enjoy first-class service in these tents surrounded by nature. The tent's exterior appears rustic, but the interiors are beautifully designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The tent features a modern bathroom fully equipped with the amenities you need to say refreshed.

Technical Information

Property Layout

Features

  • Cabins with balconies
  • Air conditioning
  • Onsite tour desk
  • Hot showers
  • Family Room (Triple or Quadruple)

Equipment

  • Diving gear
  • Snorkeling gear
  • Wetsuits
  • Kayaks / Canoes
  • Surf boards
  • Bicycles
** Use of certain equipment at additional cost, ask for details
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