CASA FRAGATA GALÁPAGOS
A private and cozy accommodation located in El Edén, a residential neighborhood of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, just 5 blocks from the entrance to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the waterfront with its picturesque Fishermen’s Pier; close to souvenir shops, restaurants, pharmacies, and bakeries.
At CASA FRAGATA we are environmentally responsible. Always concerned about minimizing our impact on the islands, we follow strict recycling policies, use biodegradable products, and promote the saving of electricity and water.
Managed by its owners, residents and Naturalist Guides of the Galápagos National Park with extensive experience in tourism and hospitality, and a deep commitment to the natural environment of the islands and their community.
OWNERS
Miss Mónica María Plaza Mejía
Mónica Plaza Mejía, born in Guayaquil, is a pedagogue, therapist, and English teacher. She arrived in the Galápagos Islands in 1990 with a vision to promote bilingual education. She founded preschools, an English academy for school-aged children, and served as a professor in the English Department at the Faculty of Tourism and Social Communication in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island.
In 1993, she obtained her license as a Naturalist Guide for the Galápagos National Park, integrating education with environmental conservation. Since then, she has dedicated her life to sharing the islands’ natural history with visitors from around the world, working with renowned companies and tour operators on yachts and boats that can accommodate up to 100 guests. Between 1998 and 2012, in agreement with the Ministry of Education and responding to the needs of the local community, she founded the María Montessori Private Bilingual Educational Center, where she developed an innovative pedagogical model focused on the flora, fauna, and conservation of the Galápagos.
From 2012 to the present, Mónica continues her work as a Naturalist Guide and Expedition Leader, consolidating a career that unites education, conservation and sustainable tourism, always with the purpose of reminding us that the Galapagos Islands are not only a destination, but a legacy that deserves to be cared for with love and deep respect.
Juan Carlos Lamilla Mejía
Juan Carlos Lamilla Mejía, born in Guayaquil and passionate about nature, arrived in the Galapagos in 1990 to join the staff of the Colegio Nacional Galápagos, where he taught English and National History.
His love for the sea led him to study at the Merchant Marine School in Puerto Ayora, first obtaining his license as a Sailor and later as a Helmsman. For six years, he navigated the Galapagos Marine Reserve in dinghies and yachts, an experience that strengthened his vocation for service and guest relations.
In 1996, he joined the Galapagos National Park Naturalist Course, obtaining his license to guide groups on yachts and vessels for up to 100 guests.
In 2020, together with his wife, he founded the tour operator GENTRAILS – Galapagos & Ecuador Nature Trails, consolidating his commitment to responsible tourism and conservation by offering authentic experiences that connect visitors with the natural and cultural richness of the islands and mainland Ecuador.
Today, Juan Carlos combines his vast experience as a naturalist guide with a close and professional business management style; he seeks not only to showcase the country’s biodiversity but also to educate travelers on the fragility of these ecosystems. His career is a testament to a life dedicated to nature, ensuring that every expedition is an adventure that honors the legacy of the Galapagos.
His love for the sea led him to study at the Merchant Marine School in Puerto Ayora, first obtaining his license as a Sailor and later as a Helmsman. For six years, he navigated the Galapagos Marine Reserve in dinghies and yachts, an experience that strengthened his vocation for service and guest relations.
In 1996, he joined the Galapagos National Park Naturalist Course, obtaining his license to guide groups on yachts and vessels for up to 100 guests.
In 2020, together with his wife, he founded the tour operator GENTRAILS – Galapagos & Ecuador Nature Trails, consolidating his commitment to responsible tourism and conservation by offering authentic experiences that connect visitors with the natural and cultural richness of the islands and mainland Ecuador.
Today, Juan Carlos combines his vast experience as a naturalist guide with a close and professional business management style; he seeks not only to showcase the country’s biodiversity but also to educate travelers on the fragility of these ecosystems. His career is a testament to a life dedicated to nature, ensuring that every expedition is an adventure that honors the legacy of the Galapagos.