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Hotel Mainao

  • Hotel Mainao
  • Hotel Mainao
  • Hotel Mainao
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Mainao is a cheerful Moorish-style mid-range hotel in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island.

This striking white, Moorish style property started life as a family home.  The owners, enthusiastic to welcoming visitors to the Galápagos, have developed the property into a cheerful, family friendly property of 22 guest rooms – some with balcony access -and patios dotted with palms.

The décor is bright and modern, and rooms have shiny tiled floors, air-conditioning and a TV. There’s Wifi, but it is weak and patchy. Upper floors are reached by winding staircases and there is no lift, so if you have an issue with stairs please ask for a ground floor room.

 If you are looking for a place in the lively town of Puerto Ayora the hotel is very well located, just a few minutes’ walk from the centre, with its bars, shops and restaurants, and the waterfront.  There’s a lovely beach in walkable distance too. 

Bartolome, Galápagos

What our clients say

  • The Galápagos were above expectation – the best thing we have done.

    DL, Dulwich Feb 2010

  • The trip around the Galápagos was spectacular and I have never experienced anything like it before.

    LB, Enfield Oct 2012

  • The trip to to the Galapagos was the highlight undoubtedly - and the memories will remain with us for a long time -along with the huge photographic archive taken!

    CG, Stratchcarron Feb 2015

  • The Galápagos Islands were something else- quite outstanding for the wonderful wildlife and abundant sea life while snorkelling.

    CP Feb 2011

  • We loved snorkelling with marine iguanas, turtles, and the lovely playful sealions.

    FM, Manchester Dec 2025

  • The Galápagos offer amazing access to stunning wild-life and a great week living on a boat.

    PJ, London Apr 2010
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Our Expert's Opinion

Kathryn
Kathryn Rhodes - Travel Expert

Kathryn backpacked across Argentina, Chile, Bolivia and Peru before joining us. She has a degree in Philosophy and French and is a keen netball player.

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Bartolome, Galápagos

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    After graduating in Computer Science, Paul spent seven months travelling from Colombia to Argentina and came home hooked on Latin America.

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    During a career break, Rosie embarked on an unforgettable year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. Now back in the UK, she is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others, helping them discover her favourite place in the world.

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    A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.

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    Sophie lived in Chile before joining us and has travelled extensively across Latin America, from Mexico to the furthest tip of Patagonia and beyond to Antarctica.

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    Kathryn backpacked across Argentina, Chile, Bolivia and Peru before joining us. She has a degree in Philosophy and French and is a keen netball player.

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