Bartolomé Island Tour
The most famous postcard in Galápagos
The experience
Bartolomé is a small island — barely 1.2 km² — yet it holds the most photographed volcanic landscape in the archipelago. Its cinder cones blend reds, blacks, oranges and greens, and from the summit viewpoint the iconic view opens up: Pinnacle Rock flanked by two turquoise bays.
The day pairs a climb up a 372-step wooden boardwalk (114 m) to the viewpoint with a snorkelling session at the foot of Pinnacle Rock, where it is common to swim alongside sea turtles, white-tipped reef sharks and — between June and December — the famous Galápagos penguins.
The Pinnacle Rock viewpoint
Climb the 372 steps of the built trail and take in the most iconic view in Galápagos: solidified lava, volcanic cones and twin bays of turquoise water.
Snorkelling with penguins
The waters around Pinnacle Rock gather sea turtles, rays, harmless reef sharks and — in season — Galápagos penguins fishing right beside you.
Small groups
Sailing on yachts for 16 to 20 passengers with a certified naturalist guide, lunch on board and all equipment included.
How is the day spent?
A day on this tour
Indicative itinerary — it may change with the tide, the weather and National Park rules.
Departure from Puerto Ayora
Bus transfer (±40 min) to the Itabaca Channel, in the north of Santa Cruz, where we board.
Sailing to Bartolomé
About 2 hours of sailing along the channel between Santa Cruz and Baltra. Light breakfast on board.
Climb to the viewpoint
Guided walk up the 372-step boardwalk between cinder cones and lava. Photo stop at the top with Pinnacle Rock behind you.
Snorkelling by Pinnacle Rock
Around 60 minutes of snorkelling in crystal-clear water: turtles, rays, reef sharks and, with luck, penguins.
Lunch on board
Lunch served on the yacht as we begin the return with views over Sullivan Bay.
Back to Puerto Ayora
Landing at the Itabaca Channel and land transfer back to town.
What's included?
- Certified naturalist guide (Spanish/English)
- Lunch on board and snacks
- Snorkelling gear
- Towels provided
- Transfer to the boarding point
Not included
- Soft drinks and extras on board
- Galápagos National Park entrance fee and TCT card (current rates on request)
- Tips (optional)
What to pack
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Cap and sunglasses
- Swimwear and a change of clothes
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or phone in a waterproof case
- Seasickness tablets (strongly recommended)
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