Step onboard a boat bound for Bartolomé Island (Isla Bartolomé), one of the most photographed islands of the Galápagos archipelago. Walk across the island’s volcanic rock formations to a spectacular viewpoint. Swim in the crystalline water alongside marine life, such as penguins and turtles. Bartolomé Island takes its name from Sir Bartholomew James Sullivan, who sailed with Charles Darwin on the HMS Beagle’s voyage around South America in the 1830s.
Once you land, set out along the wooden trail that takes you up a volcanic cone to the island summit. Gaze at the moon-like black, red and orange rock formations, formed by lava flows, volcanic ash and erupted spatter. See colorful lava cactus and tequila plants. A staircase leads to the peak and uninterrupted panoramic views. View golden sand beaches and the lush highlands of Santiago Island.
Also visible from the lookout is Pinnacle Rock. This towering black tuff cone formed naturally after a subterranean volcano expelled magma. After being cooled by the seawater, the lava exploded and created a multilayered rock. Pinnacle Rock featured in a scene from the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World, starring Russell Crowe.
Return to your boat and then cruise around the island’s north shore to its two beaches. Swim and snorkel at the northern beach, where green sea turtles nest from January to March. Enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share the water with Galápagos penguins and sea lions. Watch crabs, iguanas, flamingos and red-lipped batfish in their natural habitats.
Walk along a short path to the southern beach the waters here are not accessible. See spotted eagle rays, stingrays and both black- and white-tipped reef sharks from the shore.
Bartolomé Island sits off the eastern coast of Santiago Island. It’s about a 2.5-hour boat journey from Santa Cruz Island. Tours depart frequently from Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Most include pickup from your accommodations, a knowledgeable guide, breakfast and lunch.
