At Pikaia Lodge, we believe that true luxury extends beyond our guests' experience and must create a lasting positive impact on the community that surrounds us. As a land-based tourism model, our responsibility is not only to preserve the natural heritage of the Galápagos but also to contribute to the social and economic wellbeing of its people.
SOCIAL RESPONSABILITY
Empowering the Local Community
Pikaia Lodge is proud to generate 50+ permanent jobs, with the vast majority of our team coming from Santa Cruz Island, particularly from the neighboring agricultural community of El Cascajo. Through continuous training and professional development, we have helped local residents build long-term careers in hospitality, creating sustainable opportunities in a region where responsible tourism is the principal economic driver.
Supporting Education and Community Development
Our commitment to the El Cascajo community goes far beyond employment. For several years, Pikaia has funded an additional teacher for the local school, helping reduce classroom sizes, provide more individual attention and improve the access to quality education for local children.
By strengthening the school's teaching capacity, we help create a more supportive learning environment where students have greater opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills that will benefit them through their lives.
Our support also extends to the improvement of community infrastructure and contributed materials for projects such as road maintenance and the restoration of the village church. We also promote environmental awareness by welcoming local schoolchildren aboard our private yacht for educational excursions into the Galápagos National Park.
These experiences provide students with the opportunity to learn firsthand about the islands' extraordinary ecosystems, conservation initiatives, and the vital role of the Galápagos National Park in protecting this unique natural heritage. By connecting children directly with their environment, we hope to inspire a lifelong appreciation for conservation and encourage the next generation to become active stewards of the Galápagos.
Preserving Local Culture and Economy
We believe that tourism should benefit the people who call the Galápagos home. For this reason, we source local agricultural products, including organic Galápagos coffee, seasonal fruits, and vegetables from nearby farmers, which are then used in our restaurant and incorporated into our guests' culinary experience.
Travel with a Purpose
