Plan your visit
Plan your Visit
A day trip to Bartolome requires 8 to 10 hours. Prepare for a 2-hour boat ride, a steep wooden staircase, and open-water snorkeling.
Getting there
Tours depart from Puerto Ayora and require both a bus and a yacht transfer.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: All-inclusive guided day tour from Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island). Includes an early morning 45-minute bus ride to the Itabaca Channel, followed by a 2-hour yacht ride to Bartolome. | 8-10 hours | $250 - $375 | Must be booked well in advance as daily visitor spots are heavily restricted. Lunch and snorkel gear are usually included. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The island is open year-round. From January to May, the water is warmer and calmer. From June to November, the water is cooler, but marine life like penguins are highly active. Bring a wetsuit during these cooler months.
What to bring
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The yacht ride from Itabaca Channel takes 2 hours each way.
Bring seasickness medication if you are prone to motion sickness.
How the day runs
Most tours follow a similar schedule due to strict park regulations.
The standard itinerary for an 8 to 10 hour day trip from Puerto Ayora.
- Hotel Pickup
Depart Puerto Ayora by bus to the Itabaca Channel (45 minutes).
- Yacht Departure
Board the yacht for a 2-hour navigation to Bartolome Island.
- Summit Hike
Climb the 400-step wooden boardwalk to the 114-meter summit.
- Lunch
Return to the yacht for a prepared lunch.
- Snorkeling
Swim at Pinnacle Rock or Sullivan Bay for 45 to 60 minutes.
- Return Journey
Navigate 2 hours back to Itabaca Channel and return to Puerto Ayora.
Packing for the Day
You need comfortable walking shoes for the 400-step climb to Summit Viewpoint. Wear your swimwear under your clothes so you can easily transition to snorkeling later. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a sun hat with a chin strap to protect against the wind.
The yacht ride back in the afternoon can be breezy, so pack a light windbreaker jacket. Check Galapagos Packing Guide for a complete list of essentials.
Easiest way to do it
Day Trip to Bartolome Island from Puerto Ayora
8 h 4.9 (39)
- Water Refill
- Towel
- Lunch
- Snorkel Gear
From$384per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Is the Bartolome Island hike difficult?
The hike requires climbing nearly 400 steps on a wooden staircase. It takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Pace yourself and bring water, as there is no shade on the ascent.
What animals can you see on Bartolome Island?
You can see Galapagos penguins, sea turtles, and whitetip reef sharks while snorkeling. On land, you might spot lava lizards.
Do you need a wetsuit to snorkel at Bartolome Island?
A wetsuit is highly recommended between June and November during the garua season. The water gets quite chilly during these months.