New Year – New Visit!
We’ve added an exciting new coffee-tasting experience to our Itinerary B – Volcanic Wonders “Volcanic Wonders” to Montemar located in the highlands of Santa Cruz. This biodynamic farm uses profits from its Arabica coffee cultivation to support the recovery and rehabilitation of the Galápagos giant tortoise—the largest living turtle on the planet.
Montemar – Where Conservation Meets Coffee
Nestled on privately-owned 43-acre land, Montemar is a sanctuary for giant tortoises. The property has been reclaimed to restore native vegetation vital for the well-being of these majestic creatures, making it a notable habitat. Furthermore, Montemar actively participates in the ‘Galapagos Tortoise Movement Ecology Programme,’ contributing to the research and conservation efforts for Giant Tortoises.
Savoring the Aroma of Galapagos Coffee
Picture this: as you sip on locally grown coffee, giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat under the shade of tropical fruits and native trees as you savor the sweet tones of dry red fruits, chocolate, and nuts. During our visit, you’ll not only enjoy the coffee but also learn about the organic coffee growing and harvesting process through a guided hike. Additionally, the farm showcases a colorful display of local art, and you can explore handcrafted items offered by skilled artisans. “The coffee tasting was excellent. The guide who explained it had a very good level of English, and it was very interesting. The setup was lovely, with every detail well taken care of,” says Alan S., a guest who visited the farm onboard the Theory.
Meet Reyna Oleas: The Heart Behind Montemar
Reyna Oleas, the visionary owner of Montemar, is passionate about creating a biodynamic farm that goes beyond coffee cultivation. The farm, powered by the solar panels and rainwater, leverages profits from coffee, bananas, and guava to finance the recovery of giant tortoises. As you wander through the grounds, you’ll witness the farm’s transformation from an abandoned pasture to a thriving ecosystem dedicated to turtle habitat.
Local Brew Only
Aboard our luxury expedition yachts, we only serve premium quality Ecuadorian coffee, Huma, sourced directly from Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador. Following our visit to Montemar, the coffee journey continues with a special treat – an espresso martini demonstration held on the sundeck, featuring the rich flavors of local Galapagos grown coffee. We proudly use Islander coffee, a brand originating from Santa Cruz, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and the distinct qualities of volcanic-origin beans. Each cup tells a story of a dedicated community engaged in the complete coffee-making process – from planting and harvesting to post-harvesting and roasting.
Coffee in the Galapagos isn’t just about flavors; it signifies a journey dedicated to conservation, sustainable practices, and the unique ecosystem. We’re excited to experience this new adventure with you and, above all, to share a cup of Galapagos coffee with you amidst the company of giant tortoises!
