In short
- Tours start from Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.
- Includes a 45-minute bus ride to the Itabaca Channel.
- A 2-hour yacht ride completes the journey to Bartolome.
In this article
Because the island is heavily protected, you cannot travel there independently. All visitors must book an authorized guided day tour. Operators follow strict schedules mandated by the Galapagos National Park to manage the limit of 16 passengers per yacht. Full-day tours last 8 to 10 hours.
Where do tours to Bartolome Island depart from?
Almost all day tours depart from Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.
Tour operators typically pick you up directly from your hotel early in the morning. If you stay in a private rental, you will meet at a central landmark in town. From there, you board a private bus with your guide.
How long is the bus ride to the Itabaca Channel?
The bus ride from Puerto Ayora to the Itabaca Channel takes exactly 45 minutes.
You travel across Santa Cruz Island from south to north. The bus drops you off right at the docks. At the channel, you transfer to a small water taxi that ferries you to your waiting yacht.
How long is the boat ride to Bartolome Island?
The yacht navigation from the Itabaca Channel to Bartolome Island takes about 2 hours each way.
The ride covers open water. It can be choppy, especially from June to November. Bring seasickness medication if you are sensitive to motion. Most yachts serve drinks or a snack during this morning crossing.
| Leg of Journey | Transport | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Puerto Ayora to Itabaca | Bus | 45 minutes |
| Itabaca to Yacht | Water Taxi | 5 minutes |
| Itabaca to Bartolome | Yacht | 2 hours |
What happens when you arrive at Bartolome?
You disembark via a dry landing to begin the summit hike.
The yacht anchors near the island, and a water taxi takes you to a dock. From there, you immediately start climbing the wooden boardwalk. Summit Viewpoint requires navigating nearly 400 steps to reach the 114-meter highest elevation.
When does the snorkeling happen?
Snorkeling typically takes place after the hike, near Pinnacle Rock.
Following the descent, the yacht moves to the golden sand beach. You spend 45 to 60 minutes in the water. Snorkelers often spot Galapagos penguins, sea turtles, and whitetip reef sharks.
What time do you return to Puerto Ayora?
Most tours return to Puerto Ayora in the late afternoon.
After snorkeling, you board the yacht for lunch while cruising back to the Itabaca Channel. Once docked, the same bus transports you 45 minutes back to your hotel.
Questions travellers ask
Can you visit Bartolome Island without a guide?
No. You must be accompanied by an authorized Galapagos National Park naturalist guide at all times. Independent travel to the island is strictly prohibited.
How much does a Bartolome Island day tour cost?
Day tours cost between $250 and $375 per person. Prices change based on the yacht and operator. Read Tour Price Breakdown for a full breakdown.
Can you stay overnight on Bartolome Island?
No. The island is completely uninhabited by humans. Visitors are only allowed during the day on authorized tours.
