A family-run Galápagos cruise agency with its own lodge in Mindo Cloud Forest

Our story

From a first trip to Ecuador to a lodge of our own

David was born in the Canary Islands, Spain. While studying for an MBA in Salamanca he made friends with three Ecuadorian classmates, and in April 2006 he flew out to visit them. He came back in 2007 and again in 2008, and in 2010 he moved to Ecuador for good.

He chose Mindo, in the Chocó Andean region: one of the best places in the world for birdwatching and nature photography, and only two hours from Quito’s airport. Work on the lodge began in 2013, and Las Terrazas de Dana Boutique Lodge & Spa opened on 14 February 2015.

Guests kept asking us to plan the rest of their trip, starting with the Galápagos. So we opened Dana Tours, a family-run agency that now books Galápagos cruises and Ecuador tours, and still welcomes many of its travelers at our own lodge.

1. 2006First trip to Ecuador
2. 2010David moves to Ecuador
3. 2013Work starts on the lodge in Mindo
4. 2015Las Terrazas de Dana opens
5. TodayCruises on more than 40 Galápagos boats

What we do

Three things, done properly

Galápagos and Mindo Cloud Forest

Before or after your cruise, we look after the details

We have partnered with most of the major cruise operators in the Galápagos, so simply share your approximate travel dates. Whether you already have a cruise in mind or would like us to recommend alternatives, we are here to help, and you can stay with us before or after your cruise.

Pairing the two gives you the world’s premier wildlife destination and one of South America’s most extraordinary cloud forests in one trip. See cruises with complimentary Mindo nights.

Why travelers book with us

Independent advice, and someone on the ground

• We sell many boats, not oneWe book cruises on more than 40 boats, so we can tell you honestly which one suits your dates, your budget and what you most want to see.
• Live dates and faresOur availability pages are updated from the operators, including last-minute departures, so you see what is really open.
• A real stay in Mindo Cloud ForestComplimentary nights at our own lodge, usually 2–3 and more on request, with all meals and private transfers. How it works.
• Answers within 24 hoursUsually the same day, from people who know the boats and the islands, not from a call center.
• Everything in writingYour fare, cabin, route and conditions are confirmed by email before you pay. Read our terms.
• Looked after in EcuadorWe arrange your airport transfers, coordinate with your cruise operator and are a phone call away during your trip.

How it works

From your first question to the airport

1. Tell us your plansApproximate dates, number of travelers and what matters most to you. A boat already in mind is welcome too.
2. Get a shortlistWithin 24 hours: the boats and departures that fit, with live fares and our honest opinion.
3. Book with confidenceWe hold your cabin, confirm everything in writing and send the payment details. No surprises.
4. We take it from thereFlight advice, transfers, your Mindo Cloud Forest nights and the Galápagos entry requirements.

Questions

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