This morning we woke up at Bartolome, a volcanic islet known for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. The island is relatively small, covering an area of just 1.2 square kilometers (0.5 square miles). It is famous for its iconic landmark, Pinnacle Rock, which is a distinctive volcanic formation rising from the ocean. In the afternoon we visited Chinese Hat where we had the chance to snorkel and ride the Zodiacs along the coast.
The Galápagos Islands were formed through volcanic activity millions of years ago. The islands are located on the Nazca Plate, a tectonic plate in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The volcanic eruptions that occurred over time shaped the islands, creating a diverse range of landscapes and geological features. The islands offer a unique opportunity to witness volcanic formations, such as lava flows and volcanic cones.
One of the main goals of the day was to spot the Galápagos penguin, which is the only penguin species to be found in the Northern Hemisphere. These penguins are adapted to the warm climate of the islands and are the second smallest penguin species in the world. They primarily inhabit the western parts of the archipelago, including Bartolome Island. Observing these penguins in their natural habitat is a popular activity for visitors to the Galápagos Islands.
After an early hike we came back on board, enjoyed breakfast, and got ready for the day’s water activities: glass-bottom boat rides, snorkeling from the beach, and deep-water snorkeling. The Galápagos Marine Reserve holds 50% of the main attractions in the islands; because the islands are situated at the convergence of several oceanic currents, a unique marine environment teeming with diverse species is created here. Snorkelers can encounter a variety of marine creatures, including sea turtles, penguins, sea lions, colorful fish, and even sharks. The waters around Bartolome Island offer excellent snorkeling opportunities, allowing our guests to explore the vibrant underwater world.
Later, from the Zodiacs we watched the penguins come back home, against the beautiful colors of a stunning sunset. What a great day we had!
