Tour to Bartolome Island + Bahia Sulivan

Experience the Best of Galápagos on a Full-Day Tour to Bartolomé Island and Bahia Sulivan

If you’re dreaming of visiting one of the most iconic destinations in the world for wildlife and scenery, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Galápagos. For around $450 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring Bartolomé Island, famous for its Pinnacle Rock, and enjoying a boat ride that makes the journey as memorable as the destination. Led by knowledgeable guides like Diego or others praised for their professionalism, this tour combines scenic hikes, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters in a way that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances spectacular views with close encounters with wildlife, from swimming alongside penguins and sea turtles to spotting blue-footed boobies. The second highlight is the well-organized logistics, including a timely pickup and all necessary equipment for snorkeling—saving us the hassle of renting gear on the spot. A potential drawback is that the price is non-refundable, so it’s best suited for travelers who are confident about their plans. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive Galápagos day with plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife surprises, especially if you’re comfortable with a moderate physical effort.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Bartolomé Island, including the famous Pinnacle Rock and volcanic landscapes.
• Wildlife encounters like swimming with penguins, sea turtles, and seeing blue-footed boobies.
• Deeply knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and safety.
• All-inclusive equipment for snorkeling is provided, making the activity accessible and enjoyable.
• Efficient logistics with hotel pickup and a well-paced itinerary.
• Value for money is high, especially if booked directly with the operator.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Early Morning Pickup and Transport

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup at 6:15 am. You’ll be whisked away to the Itabaca Canal, a scenic waterway that marks the start of your journey. From there, a comfortable yacht departs for Bartolomé Island, with the boat ride lasting about 2.5 hours. As you cruise across the waters, keep your eyes peeled for seabirds and maybe even a glimpse of marine life; reviews highlight the enjoyable, relaxed boat ride as a highlight itself.

Arrival at Bartolomé Island

Once docked, you’ll step onto a wooden walkway that leads to a fairly gentle hike up to the island’s top viewpoints. The climb involves roughly 365 easy stairs—perfect for those with moderate fitness. The effort is more than rewarded: you’ll be greeted with spectacular panoramic views of the volcanic landscape, the iconic Pinnacle Rock, and the surrounding islands. Reviewers like Juan Diego praise the breathtaking vistas that make the climb worthwhile.

Pinnacle Rock and Beaches

The main star of the island is Pinnacle Rock, a massive lava formation that’s become a symbol of Galápagos. You’ll get close enough for fantastic photos, and the surrounding golden beaches are ideal for sunbathing or snorkeling. The shallow waters are often teeming with sea turtles, penguins, and other marine animals, making it a favorite snorkel spot.

Snorkeling and Wildlife Encounters

Many reviews rave about snorkeling here, noting encounters with penguins, sharks, octopus, rays, starfish, and a variety of colorful fish. The provided gear—wetsuits, masks, fins—comes in handy, especially since some travelers, like those with recent hip replacements, find the moderate activity manageable and enjoyable. Swimmers often return with tales of swimming alongside penguins and sea lions—a truly unforgettable experience.

Bahia Sulivan and Santiago Island

After exploring Bartolomé, the tour continues with a stop at Santiago Island, where you’ll see more volcanic landscapes and compare the different formations of extinct volcanoes. The reviews describe this as “the most famous landscape of Galápagos”—a fitting description for the otherworldly scenery. This stop offers a chance for more wildlife spotting and photography, often with the chance to see blue-footed boobies or other endemic species.

Duration and Flexibility

While the entire trip lasts about 8 hours, the itinerary is well-paced. The organized nature means you spend ample time on each site without feeling rushed, yet you get to see the highlights. The trip is exclusive to your group, providing a more personalized experience.

What Travelers Love and What to Consider

Wildlife and Landscape: Many reviews highlight how stunning the scenery is, with some calling it “probably the most beautiful island in Galápagos.” Snorkeling with penguins and sharks is described as “next level”, and the views from the top of the volcano are often compared to “you will feel it was worth the climb.” Guides like Diego and others are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding a personal touch to the adventure.

Value for Money: Booking directly through GalápagosBKtours often results in better prices, according to reviews. The equipment provided is good quality, and the entire experience is considered cost-effective for what’s included—transportation, snorkel gear, park fees, and guided commentary.

Logistics and Booking: Many travelers appreciate the smooth organization and punctual pickups, but some caution that booking through third-party sites like TripAdvisor might lead to overpaying. Reviews suggest waiting to book locally could save money and give you more flexibility.

Possible Drawbacks: The non-refundable policy is a point to remember—if your plans change, you might not get a refund. Plus, the moderate physical activity involved in the hike and snorkeling might be a consideration for some travelers, especially those with mobility issues.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone craving breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes. It’s perfect if you want a full-day adventure with opportunities for both hiking and snorkeling, and you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity. If you’re traveling with a group or family that enjoys authentic experiences and wildlife, this tour offers a great balance of activity and relaxation.

The Sum Up

Choosing this tour means stepping into the heart of the Galápagos—getting close to extraordinary wildlife, standing atop volcanic craters with sweeping views, and snorkeling in waters bustling with marine life. The knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics help make the day seamless and memorable. The value is solid, especially if you book directly, and the experience offers plenty of photo-worthy moments.

If wildlife, scenic landscapes, and authentic adventure appeal to you, this is a highly recommended option. It’s especially suited for those who are prepared for a moderate hike and are eager to capture the essence of Galápagos in a single day. For anyone seeking a well-organized, wildlife-rich, scenic excursion, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your accommodation, starting early at 6:15 am, for a smooth start to your day.

How long is the boat ride to Bartolomé Island?
The boat trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours, offering a relaxed cruise across the water with chances for birdwatching.

What should I expect in terms of physical activity?
The hike up to the viewpoint involves about 365 stairs, which are considered easy, but moderate fitness is recommended. The snorkeling is also described as “next level”, but equipment is provided.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, the tour provides quality wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins, making snorkeling accessible and comfortable.

Can I see wildlife during the tour?
Absolutely. Travelers often swim with penguins, sea turtles, and spot blue-footed boobies and other endemic birds. Marine life encounters are frequently praised.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the physical activity is moderate, families with children comfortable with walking and snorkeling should enjoy it. Always check the child’s comfort level with the activities.

What about booking and prices?
Booking directly through GalápagosBKtours via WhatsApp may offer better prices than third-party sites like TripAdvisor, which some reviews have criticized for overcharging.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Be sure of your plans before booking.

How do reviews describe the guides?
Guides like Diego are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism, which greatly enhances the overall experience.

Is the experience worth the price?
Most reviewers agree that the scenery, wildlife, and organization make it a solid value, especially considering the all-included snorkeling gear and park fees.

This well-rounded, detailed tour offers a fantastic way to experience some of the most stunning sights and wildlife in the Galápagos. Whether you’re snapping photos of Pinnacle Rock, swimming with penguins, or simply taking in the volcanic landscapes, it’s a day packed with memorable moments—one that will leave you with stories to tell long after you’ve returned home.