Ninfa — Hotel in Parroquia Bella Vista

This hotel was part of a one week vacation in the Galapagos, located in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island. The only reason why it doesn't get a 5 star review is because I think there is still room for improvement.

First of all, if you are new to the Galapagos idea or Island travel try to plan your schedule before arriving to the Island. I would strongly recommend staying at least two nights in the island that you arrive since most of the tours start early and transportation between islands is going to get you there too late, having that said, let's talk about the hotel.

The hotel, I think, it has about 30 rooms, it has GREAT location, is just by the pier, you can walk literally three blocks and you are at the pier. When arriving from another island to the hotel I wouldn't recommend taking a cab (taxi/camioneta) unless you have massive amounts of luggage. It has a pool and a hottub with a small bar next to it that you can get some drinks at decent price (everything on the island is like 150% more in price anywhere you go so don't be amazed for prices). It has a small restaurant, I just at the breakfast at it, it was really good, buffet type and it was included in my rate. Family friendly and you can even used the bikes that they have, no extra cost. There is also three ATMs a block away from the hotel and a convenience store right next to them.

The room was very clean, you are on an island so you will see an ant or two somewhere but no big deal. The rooms itself are very big and they A/C and TV with cable, if you like to have your TV portion everyday of your stay. We stayed in room 119, the only problem with that room is that it was located just underneath the wifi access point so it was hard getting good internet while inside the room, if you need internet while in the room this room is not for you, however you can still get internet at the pool or restaurant. Bathroom was in good condition, hot water, if you needed and it has a small fridge where you can get store the water to be cold for your next day on tour.

If you are looking for tours, the hotel can setup some tour, they own one of the boats so those tours are for sure guarantee, they usually go to Pinzon and Santa Fe, we went to Pinzon and it cost 130 per person, really decent price and it was a great tour.

The only recommendations that I would make is that the shower in my room was not that well maintained, it could be better, just making sure the holes are not closed by small rocks, I do have to say that they were remodeling a couple of rooms while we were there so maybe they are in the works of changing everything, and the bikes also need maintenance, they don't have flat tires but the seats can be changed and the bikes itself adjusted properly.

I would...

Honestly better than expected and left wanting nothing. The highlights: breakfast buffet, a bar, a pool, a jacuzzi, and billiards. Plus, downtown! I could spend all day there, and I did. The "suites" are super comfortable but in a separate building that doesn't offer wifi (the only downside of an otherwise 5-star experience). However, wifi is generally available in the common areas. The breakfast, despite pandemic, exceeded expectations. I'd factor that into the price of the room ($15+ value). The staff are top-notch. One of the "jefes" (Fernando) invited me over and introduced me to his friends. Traveled gentlemen. Speaks English. The manager, Marco, also speaks English. Super helpful. The bar manager, Jesus, is a young, friendly guy. Happy to help too. The breakfast staff over-accommodate. I basically had the place to myself -- a hidden gem. I almost feel guilty publicly exposing this place for how much value it offers but I wanna see these guys survive the pandemic because I'd recommend...

Hola!! 😎 We had a lovely stay at Hotel Ninfa. Location was right off the main pier but quiet and away from the main street. The room was large with three beds, lots of clothes storage and a great bathroom with rain shower head. Best part was a separate mirror and seating area for ladies in the main room to get ready when gents are using the bathroom!

Pool area was a nice place to cool off with a cocktail after a hot day in the sun. Jacuzzi hot tub hit the spot for a late night soak.

Tasty omelettes with toast, fruit, yogurt, bacon and all the breakfast extras. Great fresh juice every morning too!

Staff was very kind and helpful. We needed new sheets after a sandy day at Tortuga beach and they replaced them immediately.

Super great spot. Went for a bike ride one day as well. We even came back and stayed an extra night after our flight cancellation instead of staying at the airlines provided hotel.

Thank you...