02 Bartolome Island

Bartolomé

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Bartolomé Island was named after Sir Bartholomew James Sullivan, a friend of Charles Darwin who worked as a surveyor aboard the ship that brought them to the archipelago. Bartolome is an uninhabited islet dwarfed by Santiago Island to the east.

This tiny island is the most visited island in Galápagos, its iconic scenery making for great photos, and is home to the distinctive and recognizable site of Pinnacle Rock.

Highlights

Chaski 4.25 Pinguinos

Wildlife

  • Galápagos Penguins, the second smallest penguin species in the world, have a breeding colony on Bartolome
  • In the waters, spotted eagle rays, sea lions, black-tipped sharks can be seen
  • Blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds are amongst some of the iconic birdlife on Bartolomé
02 Bartolome Island

Visitor Sites

  • Pinnacle Rock - a prominent dagger-like rock formed when magma was expelled from an underwater volcano. This iconic site is one of the most visited in the archipelago and reveals the incredible nature of how the the Galápagos Islands were formed
  • North beach - landing point for boats, visitors can relax here, swim and see green sea turtles nesting
Chaski 03.25 Diving 1 Generic

Activities

  • Snorkeling around Pinnacle Rock, where penguins dart past
  • Diving at the dive site that encircles most of the island - expect to see sea turtles, sharks, rays and red-lipped batfish 
  • Relax on the north beach, a calm sandy beach with stunning views of Pinnacle Rock
  • Walk up to the panoramic viewing spot to witness the islands' breathtaking scenery

Best time to visit

Green sea turtles hatch on the beach between April and May. From December through to May the climate is warm, the waters are clear and the conditions are more comfortable for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Accessibility

You can either join a cruise that includes Bartolomé Island or book a day trip from Santa Cruz Island, which takes two hours to reach from the Itabaca Channel. We recommend booking a cruise as it offers maximum time exploring and includes naturalist guides so you can make the most of your time on the island.

FAQs

Is Bartolomé suitable for families?

Yes, the island is suitable for families, with the panoramic view of the island making it a perfect spot for family photos. With curious penguins and sea lion pups, children will love witnessing the wildlife close up.

Is Bartolomé suitable for seniors?

While there's a hike to the summit for panoramic views, there are also options for less strenuous activities like snorkeling and relaxing on the beach. Bartolomé also offers both dry and wet landing sites, allowing for a more accessible experience for those who prefer not to walk over rocks or in the water.

Are there shops on Bartolomé?

There aren't any shops directly on Bartolomé Island because it's an uninhabited island. However, you can find souvenirs related to the island on the other inhabited islands.