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Bartolome & Sombrero Chino

Explore Two Iconic Islands with Epic Views & Incredible Snorkeling

Book from $320 - $450
  • Galapagos Hawk
  • Lava Fields
  • Penguin Sightings

Bartolome & Sombrero Chino Tour

Experience two of the Galápagos’ most iconic visitor sites on this Bartolomé & Sombrero Chino tour, where dramatic volcanic landscapes meet unforgettable snorkeling. Hike to Bartolomé Island’s famous viewpoint for panoramic views over Pinnacle Rock—one of the most photographed scenes in the archipelago.

Then discover the striking shores of Sombrero Chino, where turquoise waters surround lava formations and marine life thrives. Snorkel in clear, wildlife-rich waters with colorful fish, rays, reef sharks, and even Galápagos penguins.

A powerful contrast of iconic scenery and vibrant underwater life—see how the day unfolds below.

Check for Availability
  • Departure: 7:00
  • Duration: ca. 10 hours
  • Group size: Max. 16 passengers
  • Dificulty: Medium
  • Inclusions: See here

Bartolome & Sombrero Chino Day Tour Itinerary: What to Expect (Luxury Boat)

Departure & Navigation Through the Central Islands

Your day begins with an early transfer to the Itabaca Channel, where you board your yacht and set off across the central Galápagos. As you navigate through this volcanic seascape, the silhouettes of surrounding islands rise from the horizon, revealing the raw geological character of the archipelago. Along the way, seabirds glide overhead and the changing light over the water adds to the sense of departure from the mainland.

As Bartolomé comes into view, its distinctive cone-shaped profile stands out against the sea—an unmistakable sign that you are approaching one of the Galápagos’ most iconic and photographed locations.

Bartolomé Island & the Pinnacle Rock Viewpoint

Arriving at Bartolomé, step ashore and begin the ascent along a trail that winds through a striking landscape of volcanic ash, lava flows, and sparse pioneer vegetation. The path gradually reveals more of the island’s unique formations, shaped by relatively recent volcanic activity.

With each step, the perspective widens—until you reach the summit, where Pinnacle Rock rises from the turquoise waters below, framed by surrounding bays and distant islands. It’s one of the most celebrated panoramas in the Galápagos, offering not only a breathtaking view but also a deeper appreciation of the islands’ origins.

After the hike, return to the yacht to relax, take in the scenery from the deck, and enjoy a light refreshment as the day continues.

Snorkeling at Bartolomé & Exploration of Sombrero Chino

The experience continues beneath the surface, where Bartolomé offers one of the most remarkable snorkeling sites in the central islands. Enter the water near Pinnacle Rock and explore deeper channels where marine life is particularly active. Schools of fish move through the currents, while sea turtles, rays, and white-tip reef sharks may appear, and with some luck, even Galápagos penguins can be spotted in their natural habitat.

Following lunch on board, the journey continues to nearby Sombrero Chino. This small volcanic island, formed by lava flows and surrounded by clear turquoise water, offers a completely different perspective. A short walk reveals its unique textures and contrasts—dark lava, light sand, and open ocean views—while its quiet shoreline and occasional wildlife encounters provide a calm and memorable conclusion to the day.

Why Choose the Bartolome & Sombrero Chino Tour Experience

This is one of the most visually striking day trips in the Galápagos—combining iconic panoramic views, unique volcanic landscapes, and vibrant snorkeling, all within a well-paced and rewarding itinerary.

What makes this tour special:

  • Hike to one of the Galápagos’ most famous viewpoints — Pinnacle Rock and surrounding bays from above
  • Discover surreal volcanic landscapes — lava formations shaped by recent geological history
  • Snorkel in clear, wildlife-rich waters — colorful fish, reef sharks, rays & occasional penguins
  • Visit two distinct islands in one day — each with its own scenery and character

Who this tour is perfect for:

  • First-time visitors — a chance to see one of the Galápagos’ most iconic locations
  • Landscape lovers & photographers — dramatic views and unique terrain
  • Travelers looking for variety — hiking, snorkeling & island exploration combined
  • Anyone wanting a classic Galápagos highlight — without committing to a multi-day cruise
Explore the rugged volcanic terrain of Bartolome Island in the Galapagos, captured in dramatic detail.

Bartolome & Sombrero Chino Day Tour Itinerary: What to Expect

Early Departure & Navigation to Bartolomé Island

Your day begins early in the morning with a transfer from Puerto Ayora to the Itabaca Channel, where you board the yacht and set off across the open ocean. As you navigate through the central islands, keep an eye out for changing coastal scenery, seabirds, and the first views of Bartolomé rising from the water. The journey itself already feels like part of the experience, building anticipation for one of the most iconic landscapes in the Galápagos.

Hike to Bartolomé’s Famous Viewpoint

Upon arrival, step onto Bartolomé Island and begin the walk to its legendary viewpoint. The trail winds through striking volcanic terrain, with wooden stairs guiding you across lava formations shaped by past eruptions. As you gain elevation, the views open up more and more—until you reach the top, where Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding bays stretch out below you. It’s one of the most recognizable scenes in the Galápagos, and seeing it in person is a true highlight of the day. After the hike, return to the yacht and enjoy a light snack on board.

Snorkeling at Sombrero Chino & Lunch on Board

The journey continues to nearby Sombrero Chino, a small island known for its distinctive shape and contrasting colors of black lava and turquoise water. After lunch on board, you’ll have the opportunity to enter the water and explore this unique marine environment. Snorkeling here reveals a vibrant underwater world, where schools of fish move through the clear water, and with a bit of luck, rays, reef sharks, or even Galápagos penguins can be spotted. After your time in the water, return to the yacht to relax and take in the scenery.

In the afternoon, begin your navigation back toward the Itabaca Channel. From there, a transfer will take you back across the island to Puerto Ayora, arriving in the late afternoon after a full day of exploration.

Why Choose the Bartolome & Sombrero Chino Tour Experience

This is one of the most visually striking day trips in the Galápagos—combining iconic panoramic views, unique volcanic landscapes, and vibrant snorkeling, all within a well-paced and rewarding itinerary.

What makes this tour special:

  • Hike to one of the Galápagos’ most famous viewpoints — Pinnacle Rock and surrounding bays from above
  • Discover surreal volcanic landscapes — lava formations shaped by recent geological history
  • Snorkel in clear, wildlife-rich waters — colorful fish, reef sharks, rays & occasional penguins
  • Visit two distinct islands in one day — each with its own scenery and character

Who this tour is perfect for:

  • First-time visitors — a chance to see one of the Galápagos’ most iconic locations
  • Landscape lovers & photographers — dramatic views and unique terrain
  • Travelers looking for variety — hiking, snorkeling & island exploration combined
  • Anyone wanting a classic Galápagos highlight — without committing to a multi-day cruise
Explore the rugged volcanic terrain of Bartolome Island in the Galapagos, captured in dramatic detail.

Inclusions

  • Experienced Naturalist Guide
  • Land- & Maritime Transportation
  • Delicious Lunch (vegetarian options) & Snacks
  • Tea, Coffee & Water Station
  • WiFi (on Boat)
  • Snorkeling Equipment
  • Wetsuit (Let us know at least 48h in Advance))
  • Towels
  • Gratitudes for Crew & Guide
  • Additional Services
  • Alcoholic Beverages

What can I discover?

Packing List

Sun Protection & Glasses

Equator Sunshine Extravaganza: UV Rays Here Pack a Sizzling Punch, Don’t Mess with them!

Swim Wear/Rashguard

Dive in Style: Don’t Forget Your Aquatic Fashion Statements!

Camera/Go Pro

Capture your underwater adventures and take home the best souvenir possible

Change of Clothes

This is optional. Chances are that you are gonna get wet

Good Walking Shoes

For your own safety don’t take Flip Flops with you. Simple sneakers will do the magic

Towel

We recommend a towel for after the snorkeling immersion

How to Pick the Boat that Fits you

The destinations may be the same, but the way you experience the day can feel completely different — here’s how to find the option that suits you best.

Economy

Outside_1
Inside2
Outside

Simple & Straightforward: Everything you need for a great day exploring the Galápagos — focused on the destination.

Functional & reliable boats

Designed for safe and efficient island transfers

Certified naturalist guides

Clear, engaging explanations of the highlights

Essential comfort on board

Seating areas and basic facilities

Meals included

Fresh and satisfying during the day

Choose this if you ...

Want to snorkel at one of the most fascinating snorkeling places of the entire Archipelago (Sombrero Chino) and still not miss out on the iconic landscape of Bartolome Island. Trip available only on Fridays.

Windrose-table
Outside
Inside
Food

Luxury

The Experience Itself: Turn your day tour into a highlight — with space, comfort, and a seamless experience from start to finish.

Spacious, elegant yachts

Large decks, lounges, and relaxing areas

Certified naturalist guides

More personalized and immersive experience

Outstanding meals & attentive service

Carefully prepared and served throughout the day

Smooth navigation & premium comfort

More stability and space to fully enjoy the journey

Choose this if you...

want a more complete and immersive experience of both islands. With hikes on Bartolomé and Sombrero Chino, as well as additional snorkeling at Bartolomé, this itinerary offers more variety and time to fully take in the landscapes and marine life. Trip available only Mondays.

Reservation​

Galapagos Islands

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