After 40 years of sharing the Galapagos with the world, you could say we’ve seen it all. But what still amazes us—what always has—is not just the landscapes, the wildlife, or the waters that shimmer like glass. It’s the people. The connections formed across decades. The stories we continue to uncover through the lives of those who call these enchanted islands home.
Stories like that of Juan Daniel Navarro.
If the Galapagos brings to mind brilliant blue waters, volcanic islands, and creatures that seem pulled from the pages of a fairytale, you wouldn’t be wrong. But what do you taste as you soak it all in?
If you’re lucky: chocolate. Locally made, shaped like a Galapagos tortoise, and crafted with care by the archipelago’s first and only chocolatier.
It's the makers who define our adventures. Meet Juan Navarro, the first—and only—chocolatier in the Galapagos Islands. As the son of Polo Navarro, one of the archipelago's most experienced Naturalist Guides, Juan embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that keeps the Galapagos community vibrant.
A Sweet Legacy, Ecuador-Born
Founded by Juan Daniel Navarro, the archipelago's first and only chocolatier, Chocolapagos offers handcrafted, turtle-shaped chocolates that encapsulate both the premium flavors of Ecuadorian cacao and the spirit of the Galapagos Islands. Chocolapagos offers a unique opportunity not only to indulge your sweet tooth, but also to learn more about Ecuador’s underrated chocolate, and how the craft of chocolate making is providing job opportunities to local communities in the remote archipelago of the Galapagos Islands.
Both chocolate making and cacao cultivation are deeply embedded in Ecuador’s cultural heritage—traces of cacao have been found on 5,000-year-old pottery in the Ecuadorian Amazon, showing Indigenous people in the area consumed some form of the plant even longer ago than was originally thought.
By the 19th century, Ecuador produced more cacao than anywhere else in the world, and remains one of the big players in the chocolate industry to this day. As a family-owned, Ecuadorian company, Quasar is proud to contribute to the country’s continuing legacy of cacao production by supporting small businesses like Chocolapagos.
The Birth of Chocolapagos
Juan's connection to the Galapagos runs deep. As the son of Polo Navarro, one of the archipelago's most experienced Naturalist Guides, Juan grew up immersed in the unique biodiversity and cultural heritage of the islands. This upbringing instilled in him a profound appreciation for his homeland, inspiring him to give back through his passion for chocolate making. By using locally sourced ingredients and offering Galapagos residents a job opportunity that isn’t directly tied to tourism, Chocolapagos gives back to the community that shaped him.
In 2014, Juan established Chocolapagos, combining his entrepreneurial spirit with a commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. His creations are made with 100% Ecuadorian Arriba Cacao, renowned for its exceptional quality and rich flavor profile.
As a fun reminder of the magic of this archipelago, each chocolate is shaped like a Galapagos tortoise, one of the most iconic and memorable examples of local wildlife. What better treat for visitors who are both adventure enthusiasts and chocolate lovers?
Chocolapagos Onboard
At Quasar, we’re dedicated to using responsible tourism as a way to preserve the islands for generations of locals and visitors to come—a commitment Chocolapagos shares. That’s why it’s an honor to support local artisans like Juan who rely on sustainable practices to run their small businesses.
By sourcing over 50% of our onboard ingredients locally (including Chocolapagos’ edible tortoises!), we provide our Guests with both fresh produce and local flavors while also contributing to the local economy and the preservation of the islands’ ecosystems. Don’t be surprised if you spot Chef David himself sneaking a chocolate or two.
An Immersive Experience for Galapagos Guests
During a stop in the port town of Puerto Ayora, travelers are welcome to visit Juan’s Chocolapagos gourmet shop to sample a variety of chocolates made from locally sourced ingredients—everything from original raw dark chocolate to orange, caramel and even passion fruit.
Throughout the experience, Juan’s enthusiasm is infectious as he shares the history of cacao in Ecuador and demonstrates the tempering process, allowing Guests to create their own chocolate tortoises filled with the ganache of their choice. This interactive experience offers a deeper connection to the local culture, insight into the art of chocolate-making, and an excuse to indulge those chocolate cravings! A win-win-win.
The truly chocolate-obsessed can also participate in a chocolate-making tour as part of a trip extension before or after their Galapagos luxury adventure, just off the cobblestone streets of the colonial city of Quito. There’s nothing like a hands-on chocolate-making experience to give you a fuller appreciation for your favorite treat, especially when you know that cacao has played an important role in the rich biodiversity of mainland Ecuador’s cloud forest just a few hours outside the city.
Supporting Sustainable Tourism
Juan’s work is just one example of the positive impact sustainable tourism makes in the Galapagos. By prioritizing locally sourced ingredients, Chocolapagos helps preserve the delicate balance of the islands’ ecosystems while also giving visitors a hands-on immersion in local culture and gastronomy.
This local business is a celebration of the unique heritage of the Galapagos and a way to continue the islands’ legacy while also ensuring the area’s natural wonders are around for explorers in the future.
Take Home a Taste of Galapagos
Chocolapagos chocolates also make ideal souvenirs. Each turtle-shaped treat embodies the essence of the islands, representing the dedication to quality, the love for the Galapagos, and the commitment to sustainable practices that define both Juan Navarro's creations and Quasar’s missions.
With each bite, you’re not just satisfying a craving but also physically consuming the cultural and natural legacy of the Galapagos—what makes this part of the world truly extraordinary.
Go Deeper Than the Map
At Quasar, we’ve always believed that true exploration begins where the guidebooks end: in stories shared over chocolate, in laughter exchanged with locals, and in quiet moments that linger long after the journey ends.
Whether you're walking the lava fields of the Galapagos with a Naturalist who grew up among the islands, or eating Ecuadorian chocolate alongside the chocolatier himself, our expeditions are rooted in connection. They’re crafted to help you feel the soul of a place—not just see it.
Come with us. Travel slowly. Adventure meaningfully. Discover what it feels like to truly know the Galapagos because you’ve tasted its essence.
