Bartolome Island offers a captivating day trip from Puerto Ayora in the Galapagos. Visitors can hike to the summit of the island’s iconic volcanic cone, taking in breathtaking panoramic views. The real highlight, though, is the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, teeming with tropical fish and playful sea lions. With convenient transportation, a provided lunch, and all necessary snorkeling equipment, this tour provides a seamless way to explore the island’s natural wonders. But what makes Bartolome truly unique is the chance to witness the island’s remarkable geological formations and diverse marine life up close.
Good To Know
- A full-day tour to Bartolome Island, featuring guided hiking to a volcanic summit and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters with diverse marine life.
- Complimentary pickup from accommodations in Santa Cruz Island, transportation, lunch, and snorkeling equipment included in the tour package.
- No prior snorkeling experience required, but a strong swimming ability is essential to fully enjoy the underwater adventure.
- Witness the island’s unique volcanic landscape, including lava formations, spatter cones, and tuff cones, during the guided hike.
- Tour not wheelchair accessible, and all bookings are non-refundable, so it’s important to plan accordingly and make informed decisions.
About Bartolome Island
Bartolome Island is a small, volcanic island located in the Galapagos archipelago.
It’s known for its distinctive volcanic cone, which offers stunning views from the top. The island’s landscape is dominated by lava formations, spatter cones, and tuff cones, providing a unique and otherworldly environment.
Bartolome is home to a variety of wildlife, including Galapagos penguins, sea lions, and marine iguanas, which can be observed during the trip.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island offer excellent snorkeling opportunities, where visitors can spot a diverse array of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and perhaps even the elusive Galapagos shark.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Santa Cruz.
Tour Highlights
Sailing to Bartolome Island, guests will marvel at the otherworldly landscape dotted with volcanic cones and lava formations.
The day trip includes:
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Guided snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, allowing up-close encounters with vibrant marine life such as sea turtles, rays, and schools of tropical fish.
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A hike to the top of Bartolome’s famous volcanic cone, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the iconic Pinnacle Rock.
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A visit to the white-sand beach, where guests can soak up the sun or explore the unique volcanic terrain.
The tour’s inclusion of transportation, lunch, and top-notch snorkeling equipment ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a thrilling day filled with exploration and discovery on the Bartolome Island Day Trip. The tour includes transportation from Santa Cruz Island to the Baltra Canal, where travelers will take a boat to the iconic Bartolome Island.
Once there, a bilingual guide will lead the group on a hike up the volcanic island’s summit, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After the hike, travelers will have the opportunity to snorkel in the clear waters, spotting a variety of marine life.
The tour includes all necessary snorkeling equipment, as well as a lunch. Throughout the day, tea and coffee will be available, and towels are provided for the convenience of your.
Snorkeling Experience
The snorkeling experience on the Bartolome Island Day Trip is designed to immerse visitors in the vibrant underwater world. No prior snorkeling experience is required, but a basic ability to swim is essential. The water temperature is comfortable for snorkeling year-round, eliminating the need for a wetsuit.
The snorkeling highlights include:
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Observing a diverse array of tropical marine life, such as schools of colorful reef fish, playful sea lions, and perhaps even a curious penguin or two.
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Exploring the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island, which offer excellent visibility for an up-close look at the captivating underwater scenery.
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Gaining a deeper appreciation for the unique ecosystem that thrives in this protected marine environment.
Pickup and Logistics
For the Bartolome Island Day Trip, convenient pickup arrangements streamline the start of the excursion. Guests are picked up from their lodging in Santa Cruz Island, with the first pickup occurring at 6:00 AM. During booking, travelers can select their preferred pickup point. This service ensures a seamless transition to the day’s adventures.
Pickup Information | |
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Location | Santa Cruz Island |
Start Time | 6:00 AM |
Pickup Options | Select during booking |
Accessibility | Not wheelchair accessible |
The tour’s logistics are designed with efficiency in mind, allowing participants to focus on the captivating snorkeling experience that awaits them at Bartolome Island.
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Additional Information
Beyond the seamless pickup arrangements, the Bartolome Island Day Trip offers several additional considerations for prospective travelers.
No previous snorkeling experience is required, but a strong swimming ability is essential to fully enjoy the underwater adventure. The water temperature allows snorkeling without a wetsuit year-round, ensuring comfort and convenience.
Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and all bookings are non-refundable, so cancellations won’t receive a refund.
These key details can help ensure travelers plan accordingly and make an informed decision about this exciting Galapagos excursion.
- No previous snorkeling experience required, but strong swimming ability is essential
- Water temperature allows snorkeling without a wetsuit year-round
- Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and all bookings are non-refundable
Booking and Cancellation
Travelers can book the Bartolome Island Day Trip through the operator, Howlanders. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Cancellations don’t receive refunds, as the tour is non-refundable. Those interested should book promptly, as the tour has a maximum of 16 travelers.
Pickup from lodging in Santa Cruz Island starts at 6:00 AM, and a pickup point must be selected during booking.
With inclusions such as a bilingual guide, land transportation, lunch, snorkeling equipment, and more, this day trip offers a comprehensive Galapagos experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
You can bring your own snorkeling equipment, but the tour includes snorkeling gear, so it’s not necessary. Using the provided equipment ensures it’s properly fitted and in good condition for the snorkeling activity.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
There’s no minimum age requirement for the Bartolome Island day trip. Children of all ages are welcome, though they must be able to swim proficiently to participate in the snorkeling activities.
Can I Customize the Pickup Time?
While you can’t customize the pickup time, you can select a pickup point during booking. The tour starts with pickup from lodging in Santa Cruz Island at 6:00 AM, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.
What Type of Lunch Is Provided?
The lunch provided on the tour is not specified, but it’s likely a light and fresh meal to fuel participants for their snorkeling adventure. The tour operator aims to offer a satisfying lunch as part of the inclusive experience.
Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour Package?
There doesn’t appear to be an option to upgrade the tour package based on the information provided. The package includes standard amenities like a bilingual guide, lunch, and snorkeling equipment. No additional upgrades are mentioned.
The Sum Up
Bartolome Island’s day trip from Puerto Ayora offers an unforgettable experience. Explore the island’s volcanic landscapes, hike to the summit, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters with tropical fish and sea lions. This tour includes transportation, lunch, and snorkeling equipment, making it a convenient and exciting way to discover the wonders of the Galapagos archipelago. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
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