The Origins of Finca Gaia’s Vision
Finca Gaia is a family-owned farm encompassing approximately 35 acres of natural forest in the karst region of Barrio Maguayo, Dorado, Puerto Rico. The property features two sinkholes surrounded by mogotes (limestone hills) and dense woodland. The farm’s primary focus is on conservation, education, and well-being, aiming to preserve the natural environment while educating current and future generations about the importance of respecting and coexisting with nature.
Under the canopy of native trees such as Marías, Espino Rubiales, Ceboruquillos, Ucares, Guayabos, Almacigos, and Robles, Finca Gaia has established trails designed to enhance visitors’ connection with nature, offering health benefits through forest bathing experiences.
The farm’s history dates back to the 1970s when Alfonso and Carmen acquired the land among the mogotes of Barrio Maguayo. In 2013, the family began developing the area, leading to the planting of over 300 floral, fruit-bearing, exotic, native, and endemic trees by 2015, guided by Ana Pérez’s vision and with assistance from Sadhu of Govardhan Gardens. What started as a weekend family hobby has evolved into a full-time commitment to ecological agriculture, practicing organic and sustainable farming methods to minimize environmental impact on the karst ecosystem.
Tree by Tree: Expanding Puerto Rico’s Green Footprint
Finca Gaia’s mission is to share activities and experiences within a family-friendly environment rich in Puerto Rico’s native flora and fauna. The vision is to serve as a natural oasis, preserving environmental balance and providing visitors with genuine experiences infused with the family’s love and passion for nature.
The farm boasts a diverse array of over 20 endemic species (some endangered), 60 native species, 35 fruit-bearing, and 15 exotic species, contributing to the region’s biodiversity. Finca Gaia emphasizes conservation, education, and agroforestry—the intentional integration of trees and shrubs with crops—to achieve environmentally sustainable benefits. Finca Gaia has undertaken the task of identifying as many species of native and endemic trees as possible within the mogotes.
“At Finca Gaia we work our land organically and ecologically, always taking care of our natural environment to cause the least possible impact on the karst ecosystem.”-Finca Gaia
Innovative Programs: Tree Identification and Education
To achieve this, they are creating trails where each species of native tree will be marked with an aluminum plate. Each plate, costing $10, includes the tree’s scientific name, common name, and a QR code that links to a page with its profile and detailed information. Through their adopt-a-tree program, every $10 donation funds the creation of a plate, contributing to their mission of education and conservation. The team at Finca Gaia deeply values the support of contributors in helping bring this initiative to life.
Donate.
Your Role in Sustaining the Karst’s Biodiversity
Finca Gaia invites everyone to be part of its mission to preserve and celebrate Puerto Rico’s natural beauty. Whether you choose to volunteer your time, make a donation to support their conservation efforts, or sign up for one of their immersive nature experiences, your contribution helps sustain this vital oasis. Protect the unique karst ecosystem and inspire future generations to cherish and respect the environment. Visit
Finca Gaia’s website to learn more, get involved, and make a lasting impact today. Join Finca Gaia’s monthly
membership and make a meaningful impact while enjoying exclusive perks.
CONTACT FICA GAIA 
Telephone: (787) 404 – 4520
Email: fincagaiapr@gmail.com | cangrejoarboreo@gmail.com
Facebook: @Finca Gaia
Address: Carretera PR-2 Km.25.6, Dorado, Puerto Rico
Website: https://www.fincagaia.com
Photo Credits: Finca Gaia
The farm’s history dates back to the 1970s when Alfonso and Carmen acquired the land among the mogotes of Barrio Maguayo. In 2013, the family began developing the area, leading to the planting of over 300 floral, fruit-bearing, exotic, native, and endemic trees by 2015, guided by Ana Pérez’s vision and with assistance from Sadhu of Govardhan Gardens. What started as a weekend family hobby has evolved into a full-time commitment to ecological agriculture, practicing organic and sustainable farming methods to minimize environmental impact on the karst ecosystem.
