Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay

Exploring the stunning landscapes of Bartolome Island and Sullivan Bay in the Galapagos is a remarkable opportunity. This full-day tour offers an immersive experience, taking visitors on a hike to the volcanic summit for breathtaking views and snorkeling at the vibrant Playa Dorada. Led by a professional guide, the small group of 10 participants can discover unique geological formations, encounter diverse wildlife, and savor a quality lunch as they uncover the enchanting environments of these remarkable islands. With limited availability, this personalized adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into the remarkable Galapagos ecosystem.

Good To Know

• The tour offers a full-day excursion to Bartolome Island and Sullivan Bay, providing opportunities to hike volcanic landscapes and go snorkeling.
• The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience with a professional guide.
• Inclusions cover transportation, lunch, and snorkeling equipment, while wetsuits are available for rent at an additional cost.
• The tour starts at 6:00 am with pickups from hotels in Puerto Ayora, and includes wildlife sightings of Galapagos penguins, marine iguanas, and seabirds.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult, with positive reviews highlighting the knowledgeable crew and quality of the experience.

Tour Overview

The Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay tour from Puerto Ayora includes hiking to the volcanic top for scenic views and snorkeling at Playa Dorada, home to resident penguins.

This full-day excursion is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a personal experience. During the tour, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the volcanic landscape and witness the natural wonders of the Galapagos.

The group size is kept small to provide a more intimate and immersive experience for guests.

Inclusions and Amenities

Included in the tour are a professional guide, lunch, and snorkeling equipment (mask and fins). Plus, round-trip transportation is provided from hotels within the urban perimeter of Puerto Ayora. However, breakfast is not included, and wet suits are available for rent at $5.

Feature	Included	Not Included
Guide	✓
Lunch	✓
Snorkel Equipment	✓
Breakfast		✓
Wetsuit Rental		✓ ($5)
Transportation	✓ (within Puerto Ayora)

The tour offers a personal experience, with group sizes limited to 10 participants.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour starts at 06:00 am, with pickup from the hotel lobby or a designated meeting point (7M2P+VF6, Puerto Ayora).

Transportation is provided for the roundtrip journey, with the activity ending back at the original meeting location. Participants must be ready on time, as the group sizes are limited to 10 people for a more personal experience.

This full-day tour includes visits to Bartolome Island and Sullivan Bay, allowing travelers to explore the volcanic landscapes and spot local wildlife like resident penguins.

Snorkeling equipment is provided, though wetsuits are available for rent at an additional $5 fee.

Participant Guidelines

Participants should be aware that this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can partake in the activities.

Some key participant guidelines to consider:

1. Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.
2. Participants are advised to bring swimwear and other essential items for the day’s activities.
3. Wet suits are available for rent at an additional cost of $5.
4. The tour is limited to groups of 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Reviews and Feedback

The tour has received 5 reviews with an overall rating of 4.0.

Positive comments mention the knowledgeable crew, quality of the provided lunch, and the abundance of wildlife sightings.

However, some travelers have criticized the pricing, finding it overpriced compared to in-person booking options.

Despite this, the feedback suggests the tour generally provides a satisfactory experience, with the crew, food, and wildlife encounters being particular highlights.

Feedback indicates the tour offers a personal experience, with group sizes limited to 10 participants.

Exploring Bartolome Island

Towering volcanic spires and pristine white-sand beaches characterize the breathtaking Bartolome Island, a jewel in the Galapagos archipelago.

Visitors can embark on a hike to the island’s 600-foot summit, offering panoramic views of the lunar-like landscape and surrounding islands. The trail’s diverse flora and fauna include Galapagos penguins, marine iguanas, and vibrant lava cactus.

Following the hike, guests can snorkel at Playa Dorada, encountering a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and possibly even the resident penguins.

The island’s unique geological features, coupled with its abundant wildlife, make Bartolome a must-visit destination for any Galapagos explorer.

The key highlights of Bartolome Island include:

1. Volcanic Spires and Lunar Landscape
2. Hiking Trail to 600-Foot Summit
3. Galapagos Penguins, Marine Iguanas, and Lava Cactus
4. Snorkeling at Playa Dorada

Discovering Sullivan Bay

Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island offers a unique geological experience for visitors to the Galapagos. The area is known for its stark, lunar-like landscape, formed by a recent lava flow.

Travelers can explore the solidified lava, which forms fascinating patterns and shapes. The hike through the lava field provides a chance to witness the power of nature and the ongoing geological processes shaping the islands.

Visitors may also spot marine iguanas, Galapagos hawks, and other wildlife adapted to the harsh environment. The tour includes time for snorkeling in the nearby waters, offering a chance to see the diverse marine life of the Galapagos.

This excursion provides a captivating contrast to the lush vegetation and beaches of other islands.

Wildlife Encounters

Along With the dramatic volcanic landscapes, Bartolome Island is renowned for its diverse wildlife.

The island is home to a variety of species, including:

1. Galapagos penguins, the only penguin species found north of the equator, which can often be spotted swimming or sunbathing on the island’s shores.

2. Marine iguanas, the islands’ native lizards, which feed on algae in the surrounding waters.

3. Sea lions, playful and curious creatures that can be observed frolicking in the waves or lounging on the beach.

4. A range of seabirds, such as frigatebirds, boobies, and herons, which can be seen soaring overhead or nesting on the island’s cliffs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Typically Like on the Tour?

The weather is typically warm and sunny. Temperatures are mild, averaging around 75°F (24°C). Participants should be prepared for some wind and potential for overcast conditions, as the islands can experience variable weather patterns throughout the day.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

You can bring your own snorkeling equipment, but the tour includes mask and fins. The guide recommends using the provided gear to ensure proper fit and safety during the snorkeling activity at Playa Dorada.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Participants?

The tour has a limited group size of 10 participants to provide a more personal experience. The small group size allows for a more intimate and interactive tour of the island.

Will There Be Any Breaks or Rest Stops During the Tour?

The tour provides breaks and rest stops throughout the day. Participants will have the opportunity to rest and refuel as they explore the volcanic landscapes and snorkel at Playa Dorada. The schedule is designed to ensure a comfortable and engaging experience.

Can I Take Pictures During the Snorkeling Portion?

Yes, participants can take pictures during the snorkeling portion of the tour. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, including masks, which allow for easy underwater photography to capture the marine life and scenic views.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay tour offers an unforgettable Galapagos experience. Guests can hike to volcanic summits, snorkel in vibrant waters, and encounter unique wildlife, all while enjoying a personalized adventure led by a professional guide. With limited group sizes, this tour provides an immersive and enriching exploration of the islands’ stunning natural wonders.