The Royal Palm Galapagos Hotel on Santa Cruz Island in Ecuador’s Galápagos National Park is undergoing renovations and will soon reopen as a Curio Collection by Hilton property, the brand’s first hotel in the region. Located in the lush Miconia Highland Forest, it lies within a valley between two extinct volcanoes with interesting geological features including craters and lava tunnels. The hotel’s surroundings include 463 acres of natural habitat for guests to explore.
The renovation, planned for completion in July 2022, is focused on sustainable architecture and design with a commitment to local sourcing and reducing environmental impact.
Royal Palm Galapagos is a boutique hotel featuring 21 casitas and villas, all designed as traditional Ecuadorian haciendas. Some of the casitas can be interconnected, making them especially ideal for families. All guestrooms and common areas are undergoing renovations to offer upgraded luxury amenities.
Here, guests can embark on an exploration of the natural wonders of the Galapagos and see the region’s iconic green turtles and stunning birds, before returning to the comfort of a pool, spa, and fitness center.
The property’s most unique offering is a fine dining restaurant located within a cavern inside one of the lava tunnels. Guests can feast on cuisine showcasing locally sourced ingredients and inspired by regional culture.
The Hilton Effect Foundation philanthropic arm seeks to advance Hilton’s Travel with Purpose programs. The organization has partnered with The Nature Conservancy to protect native Ecuador fish species and with the Galapagos Conservancy to feed and protect the endangered Floreana Giant Tortoise.This special destination allows guests to see firsthand the tremendous forces of nature that formed this archipelago. Santa Cruz is home to Tortuga Bay, the Charles Darwin Research Station, and is the only destination in the Galapagos with a Miconia and Escalesia Reforestation Program and a Rain Harvesting program, both designed to promote long term sustainability.
