Service Description

A journey to Bartolomé Island feels like stepping into another world. Located off the eastern coast of Santiago Island, this volcanic islet is one of the youngest in the Galápagos and home to dramatic, Mars-like landscapes, sweeping panoramic views, and one of the archipelago’s most iconic photo ops: Pinnacle Rock. Your adventure begins early in the morning with hotel pickup between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., followed by a 40-minute bus ride across Santa Cruz Island to the Itabaca Channel. There, you’ll board a comfortable yacht equipped with restrooms and lounge areas for a 2-hour cruise to Bartolomé. Guests departing at 6:00 a.m. enjoy a hot breakfast served on board. Upon arrival, your certified naturalist guide will lead you on a scenic, 40-minute hike to the summit of the island (114 meters above sea level). The trail follows a wooden boardwalk through surreal lava fields in vibrant hues of red, orange, green, and black—evidence of the island’s volcanic origins. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of volcanic cones, turquoise coves, and the legendary Pinnacle Rock. After the hike, relax with a hot lunch on board before heading to a calm sandy cove for snorkeling. This area offers a rare chance to swim alongside Galápagos penguins—the only penguin species found north of the equator—as well as green sea turtles, reef fish, and rays gliding through crystal-clear waters. To cap off the day, enjoy a panga ride (dinghy excursion) around Pinnacle Rock for an up-close view of penguins sunbathing on the lava rocks—often just a few meters away. It’s a fantastic opportunity for wildlife photography in a setting that feels truly untouched. Tour Includes: Round-trip hotel transport Yacht with restrooms and shaded areas Hot breakfast (only on 6:00 a.m. departures) Full onboard lunch and drinks Certified bilingual naturalist guide Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) Wetsuits available for rent Estimated return to Puerto Ayora: ~5:00 p.m. This full-day tour is a perfect mix of volcanic geology, wildlife encounters, and natural beauty—ideal for adventurers, photographers, and first-time Galápagos explorers alike.