BARTOLOME + SOMBRERO CHINO
A DAILY CRUISE EXPERIENCE!
Experience the best of Galápagos in a single, action-packed day with the Bartolomé and Sombrero Chino tour—an unforgettable blend of dramatic landscapes and vibrant marine life!
Begin your journey on Bartolomé Island, where a scenic hike takes you to the summit for panoramic views of Pinnacle Rock, volcanic formations, and striking coastal views. Then, head to Sombrero Chino, a small islet shaped like a Chinese hat, perfect for snorkeling in clear waters teeming with Galápagos penguins, sea lions, reef sharks, and colorful tropical fish. The contrast between Bartolomé’s otherworldly terrain and Sombrero Chino’s serene, wildlife-rich waters makes this tour a favorite for photographers, hikers, and snorkelers alike. With expert guides, full snorkeling equipment, and onboard meals included, this is your chance to explore two iconic sites in one extraordinary adventure!
TOUR DETAILS:
Departure time: 7:00 am.
From: Puerto Ayora → Itabaca Channel.
Activities: 80% Hiking and 20% Snorkeling.
Duration: 10 hours.
Navigation: 2 hours per way
Yacht capacity: 16 people.
TOUR COSTS:
$415 Luxury yacht
PLEASE REQUEST AVAILABILITY BEFORE BOOKING
ITINERARY
06:50
We begin this adventure with a bus ride to the Itabaca Canal (approximately 40 minutes) from our meeting point. This will be announced the day before the excursion.
07.30
Once we reach the canal, the boat’s zodiac will be waiting to take us to the yacht.
07:40
Next, we will begin sailing to Bartolome Island. This journey can take between 2 and 2.5 hours depending on sea conditions and wind conditions.
10:00
We will arrive at Bartolome Island, our captain will look for a safe place where he can anchor the boat.
10:15
Next, we’ll disembark on the island via the boat’s zodiac. (You’ll need to bring everything you need for the hike.) While we travel to the disembarkation point, we’ll cruise along the coast to observe the iconic Galapagos penguin.
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We will begin the hike to the iconic viewpoint where we can admire the landscape with the pinnacle rock.
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The trail has 372 wooden steps leading to the top of the islet, at a height of 114 meters. The ascent is gradual, with flat walkways and viewing points for resting.
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As you climb to the top of Bartolomé Island, you can see native vegetation such as tiquilias and cacti, and also observe local wildlife such as hawks and lava lizards.
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Once at the summit, we can see the iconic Pinnacle Rock, Sullivan Bay, Santiago Island, and Daphne Major and Daphne Minor. You can also appreciate the expanse of black lava flows and beaches, as well as a 360-degree panoramic view of the island.
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After reaching the summit and taking impressive photos, we’ll begin the descent back to the starting point. From above, we’ll be able to observe traces of volcanic activity, such as lava and scoria flows, which form small craters resembling a lunar landscape.
12:00
We will return back onboard to travel to our next destination followed by superb snacks.
12:30
We’ll arrive at Sombrero Chino Islet. Here we’ll enjoy two activities: hiking and snorkeling.
12:40
We’ll start a short walk, as the trail is short, about 400 meters, and it circles the entire bay.
12:45
We’ll start a short walk, as the trail is short, about 400 meters, and it circles the entire bay.
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The beach is home to a colony of sea lions, marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and various shorebirds. It’s possible to see Galapagos penguins both on the rocks and in the water, especially during the breeding season.
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The island features lava formations, including lava tubes and flows, which provide a unique volcanic landscape.
13:15
Finally we return to the shore to put on our snorkeling equipment and start snorkeling where you can see white tip reef sharks and other Galapagos fish.
14:15
We will return to the boat where chef on board will demonstrate his culinary art to delight you with an exquisite lunch while we contemplate the natural beauty of our surroundings.
15:00
We will sail back to Itabaca Chanel. The bus will be waiting for us to bring us back to Puerto Ayora town aproximately at 17:30
• Snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel)
• Wetsuits (optional. You must try equipment 1 day before in our office)
• Beach towels.
• Personal expenses.
• Travel insurance (highly recommended).
• Additional services not mentioned.
• A deposit of 50% or full amount is required for confirmation.
• The remaining balance must be paid 30 days before the start of the activity.
Cancellation policies 2024
59 to 30 days before the activity:
• Cancellation: 0% penalty
30 to 10 days before the activity:
• Cancellation: 50% penalty per person.
09 days before the activity
• Cancellation: 100% penalty per person.
INQUIRY FORM
- Ministery of tourism operations certificate: 2091762806001.001.5000194
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