Personally, I am keen on boats of all kinds, but I freely concede that not everyone shares my enthusiasm, especially not for relatively small ones bobbing up and down in the mid-Pacific. For aquaphobes, or more specifically, ochophobes (those in fear of vehicles), the Galápagos Islands have always represented a quandary. Their dilemma was partially solved by the opening of the Galapagos Safari Camp — which I continue to recommend — on the island of Santa Cruz.
The new Pikaia Lodge, also on Santa Cruz, now meets the unresolved needs of tisantaphobes (those in fear of tents). Spectacularly located at an elevation of 1,500 feet next to two extinct volcanoes and surrounded by a private giant tortoise reserve, the lodge provides all the comforts of home — air-conditioning, sleek furniture, generous marble baths, direct-dial telephones and satellite television — plus a sophisticated restaurant for Ecuadorian and Peruvian cuisine, and an infinity pool. Local guides take guests on hikes and lengthier “expeditions.” Oh, and for landlubbers who pluck up their courage, the lodge even has two yachts for day trips.
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
1 (800) 375-4685
Open M-F 8:30AM-5:30PM CT
