Bartolomé is an uninhabited island just off Santiago Island. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. It is extremely scenic due to its famous "Pinnacle Rock" making it popular with tour boats. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. On both sides of the pinnacle is a sandy beach which makes a popular wet landing. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises.
A highlight of this island is the scenic hike to the top of the highest point. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. The landscape is riddled with different formations of volcanic origin including lava flows and lava tubes. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. Once you reach the summit, you'll enjoy the scenic panoramic view of this and the neighboring islands. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. The hike starts at a dry landing and the walk is easy (340 feet high). Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. There are steps and a wooden walkway that have been built by the park to guide the way. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises.
During the surface interval you might have the opportunity to snorkel around the pinnacle to see the Galapagos penguins. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. This is the northernmost range of pengiuns and is the only penguin in the Galapagos Islands. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. They are small compared to other penguins, only up to 14 inches tall (the second smallest in the world). Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. They make their home along the rocky ledges and feed on juvenile fish by dive bombing to depths of up to 40 feet. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. This penquin is endemic to the area and the total population is only around 2500 pairs. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises.
Wear good walking shoes. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. One of the most photographed sites in Galapagos is Pinnicle rock, an eroded tuff cone. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. A 30 minute climb to a summit of a once active volcano offers a panoramic view of Sullivan Bay. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. The view is educational as well as inspiring featuring lava formation-spatter cones and lava tubes. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. Landing: Wet Notes: Swimsuit, towel, snorkeling equipment- Afterward, there is time for snorkeling on the beach that lines the northern shore. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. Frequently, penguins are spotted in this area. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. Take a walk through mangroves to the southern beach. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises. Here, you may see mating sea turtles and white tipped sharks close to shore. Bartolome Island, Galapagos Gay Cruises.
