Bartolomé Island | Galapagos Islands

Bartolomé Island: A Stunning, Volcanic Paradise in the Galápagos

Bartolomé Island is one of the most iconic and visually striking islands in the Galápagos Archipelago. Known for its unique volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and breathtaking viewpoints, Bartolomé offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most dramatic scenery in the entire Galápagos. The island is located just off the eastern coast of Santiago Island, and while it's relatively small, its landscape is diverse and filled with geological features that highlight the island's volcanic origins.

Geography and Features of Bartolomé Island

• Location: Bartolomé Island is located approximately 24 kilometers (15 miles) northeast of Santiago Island in the central part of the Galápagos Archipelago. The island is easily accessible by boat, and it is typically included in tours that visit neighboring islands, such as Santiago or Santa Cruz.
• Size and Terrain: At only about 1.2 square kilometers (0.5 square miles), Bartolomé is a small island. Despite its size, it features striking volcanic landscapes that include tuff cones, lava fields, and pahoehoe lava formations. It has a high central peak that offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Volcanic Features

Bartolomé Island is largely uninhabited and is considered a geological wonder. Its landscape consists of various volcanic formations:

• Tuff Cones: The island is known for its tuff cones, which are formed from the eruption of volcanic ash and lava. These cone-shaped features are particularly prominent and create dramatic contrasts against the otherwise barren volcanic terrain.
• Pahoehoe Lava: The island features stretches of pahoehoe lava, a type of smooth, ropy lava that flows in patterns that resemble folded and twisted ropes.
• Bartholomew Peak: The highest point on the island is Bartholomew Peak, which stands at 114 meters (374 feet) above sea level. The hike to the summit of this peak is one of the main attractions of the island, providing visitors with unparalleled views of the island's volcanic landscape, as well as nearby islands like Santiago and Sombrero Chino.

Wildlife on Bartolomé Island

Despite its volcanic, barren appearance, Bartolomé Island is home to several species of wildlife that have adapted to the island’s harsh conditions. The wildlife here is a mix of marine and land species, with opportunities for spotting both endemic and migratory animals.

1. Marine Life

• Sea Lions: Galápagos sea lions can often be seen lounging on the beaches of Bartolomé. These playful animals are a major attraction for visitors and are frequently spotted both on the land and in the waters surrounding the island.
• Marine Turtles: The waters off Bartolomé are also frequented by marine turtles, which often come to the island’s beaches to lay their eggs.
• Fish and Marine Life: Snorkeling around Bartolomé’s waters is a highlight of the visit. The clear waters are home to a wide variety of fish species, including tropical fish, manta rays, and reef sharks. The marine reserve around the island is teeming with underwater life, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving.

2. Land Species

• Galápagos Penguins: Bartolomé is home to a small population of Galápagos penguins, the only penguin species found north of the Equator. These penguins are small and well-adapted to the tropical climate of the Galápagos, and they can often be seen swimming in the waters around the island or resting on the rocks.
• Lava Lizards: The island is also home to Galápagos lava lizards, which are small reptiles commonly found on the islands' rocky and volcanic terrain.
• Birdlife: While Bartolomé does not have the same variety of bird species as some other islands in the Galápagos, it is still home to several seabirds, including frigatebirds, boobies, and herons.

Things to Do and Explore on Bartolomé Island

Bartolomé Island is primarily visited for its spectacular natural beauty and the variety of outdoor activities available to visitors. The island is one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting the Galápagos due to its exceptional landscapes and opportunities for adventure.

1. Hiking to the Summit of Bartholomew Peak

The hike to the summit of Bartholomew Peak is one of the most rewarding activities on the island. The moderate hike takes about 20-30 minutes and leads visitors up a well-maintained path that offers stunning views of the island's tuff cones, lava formations, and the surrounding islands. From the summit, visitors are treated to an incredible panoramic view of the Galápagos, including Santiago Island, Sombrero Chino, and the surrounding turquoise waters. This view is often regarded as one of the most photographed in the archipelago.

2. Snorkeling and Swimming

Bartolomé Island is a fantastic spot for snorkeling and swimming. The waters around the island are crystal clear, and visitors can expect to see a variety of marine life. The snorkeling site off Gardner Bay (just to the west of the island) is particularly popular, where you can see sea lions, marine turtles, and tropical fish. The island’s protected waters also attract stingrays, eels, and manta rays, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.

3. Relax on the Beach

While Bartolomé is famous for its dramatic landscapes and geological features, it also has pristine beaches. The island’s main beach, located near the visitor center, is a great spot to relax and observe the local wildlife, including sea lions basking in the sun. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the shore or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

4. Wildlife Watching

Bartolomé Island offers several opportunities for wildlife watching, particularly for those interested in seeing the Galápagos penguins in their natural habitat. Visitors can often spot these penguins swimming or resting on the rocks near the shoreline. Marine iguanas, lava lizards, and various species of birds are also commonly seen on the island.

Why Visit Bartolomé Island?

Bartolomé Island is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Galápagos Archipelago, and here’s why:

• Breathtaking Views: The hike to the summit of Bartholomew Peak offers one of the most spectacular views in the entire Galápagos, showcasing the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes and neighboring islands.
• Unique Wildlife: The chance to see Galápagos penguins, sea lions, and marine iguanas in such close proximity makes Bartolomé a memorable stop for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Snorkeling and Diving: The island’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and offer the opportunity to see a wide variety of marine life, from tropical fish to manta rays.
• Geological Wonders: The island’s volcanic features, including tuff cones and lava fields, make it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in geology and the natural world.
• Pristine Beaches: Bartolomé’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the Galápagos, providing the perfect setting for relaxation after a day of exploring.

For its striking scenic beauty, incredible wildlife, and variety of activities, Bartolomé Island is a highlight of the Galápagos Islands and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors.