The Perfect Postcard from the Galapagos
If you have one image of the Galápagos burned into your mind, this is probably it.
You know the one: the sweeping wooden boardwalk climbing a volcanic cone, the twin crescent beaches divided by a sliver of land, and the towering, spear-shaped obelisk of Pinnacle Rock.
It’s the postcard. It’s the cover of the travel magazine. It’s the view.
From Alien Worlds to Underwater Wonders: The Two Sides of Bartolomé
The magic of Bartolomé is that it gives you two completely different, world-class experiences in one tiny spot.
The Climb to a Lunar Landscape
First, you’ll take a “panga” (a small zodiac boat) to a dry landing. The main event here is the climb to the viewpoint.
Don’t worry, it’s not a grueling hike. The park service has built an incredible 374-step wooden boardwalk that protects the fragile volcanic soil and makes the climb accessible. As you ascend, you are walking on another planet. The ground is a canvas of reds, blacks, and oranges—lava fields so new and raw that almost nothing grows. It’s called a “lunar” landscape, and it truly feels like it.
Then, you reach the top. You see the view. You take the picture. And you just… soak it in.
The Snorkel at Pinnacle Rock
Then, you trade the dry, alien world for a vibrant, underwater one.
You’ll head down to one of the beaches and get your snorkel gear on. The water is clear, and as you swim out towards the base of Pinnacle Rock, the show begins. This is, without a doubt, one of the best places to see the Galápagos Penguin.
Yes, penguins! On the equator! It’s bizarre and wonderful. You’ll see them on the rocks, but the real thrill is when they zip past you in the water like tiny torpedoes. They are fast. Alongside them, you’ll likely swim with playful sea lions, grazing marine iguanas, and graceful sea turtles. It’s a flurry of life against the backdrop of the volcanic rock.
When Should You Go? A Guide to Bartolomé’s Seasons
This is the number one question I get. And here’s the great secret of Galápagos: there is no “bad” time to go. The animals are there all year long.
However, the experience does change a bit. The islands have two main “seasons,” and the one you choose depends on what you prioritize: warm water for snorkeling, or more active animals?
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide:
Choosing Your Bartolomé Adventure
| Season | Months (Approx.) | The Vibe & Water | Animal Spotlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warm & Wet | January – May | Sunny & Tropical. Water is warm (74-80°F / 23-27°C) and very clear. Occasional rain showers. | Best for Snorkeling: Amazing visibility. You’ll see lots of sea turtles and rays. |
| Cool & Dry | June – December | Cool & Fresh. Misty mornings (“garúa”). Water is colder (68-73°F / 20-23°C). | Best for Active Fauna: The cold water brings more food. Penguins are much more active. |
My personal take:
- If you get cold easily and want that “tropical paradise” snorkel, go between January and May.
- If your absolute #1 goal is to see super-active penguins hunting, go between June and December (and maybe wear a shorty wetsuit for the snorkel!).
How to Make It Happen: My Practical Tips & Packing List
Okay, so you’re convinced. How do you actually get there?
How to Get There
You can’t just show up. Bartolomé is a protected national park site and access is strictly controlled. You have two main options:
- As a Day Tour: This is the most common way. You’ll take a tour from the town of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Be warned: it’s a long day. It involves a bus ride to the Itabaca Channel and then a boat ride (about 2 hours) to the island. But it’s 100% worth it.
- On a Live-Aboard Cruise: If you’re doing a multi-day cruise, many “North Loop” or “Central” itineraries include Bartolomé as a main stop. This is the most comfortable way, as you often arrive before the day-trippers.
Your “Don’t-You-Dare-Forget-It” Packing List
- Sunscreen (Reef Safe!). The equatorial sun is no joke. Apply it. Then apply it again.
- A Hat & Sunglasses.
- Good Walking Shoes. Sneakers or trail runners are perfect for the boardwalk.
- Swimsuit. (Pro-tip: wear it under your clothes to save time).
- A Reusable Water Bottle.
- Your Camera. You will take hundreds of photos. I promise.
- A Light Towel (like a travel or microfiber towel).
Bartolomé Island isn’t just a place you see; it’s a place you feel. It’s a highlight reel of everything that makes Galápagos the most special place on Earth. Enjoy every second!
