Bartolome Island
Home of the famous Pinnacle Rock, Bartolome Island consists of an extinct volcano with a variety of red, orange, black and even green volcanic formations. The island was named after lieutenant Bartholomew James Sulivan, a sailor on Darwin's ship the HMS Beagle. The beach is perfect for snorkeling and possible sightings of the Galapagos Penguin.
Checking out a Hammerhead Shark
Dario our guide took us to a tidal pool where we sat and quietly watched the iguanas and birds feeding on small fish. They didn't seem to even notice we were there.
In the bay where we landed, a mother seal and her pup were playing in the sand.
Posts from this trip.
Now that you know where the Galapagos Islands are and when you want to go, the big question is how are you going to experience them. The internet will be a great source to research your options. Try happygringo.com to get started. We didn't book through them, but I found their website very user friendly and informative. There are three options for you to consider:
The Galapagos Archipelago was discovered by accident in 1535, when Tomas de Berlanga, the Bishop of Panama, drifted off course while sailing from Panama to Peru. The Bishop reported his discovery to King Charles V of Spain and included in his report a description of the giant galapago (tortoise) from which the islands received their name.
Our first stop was to North Seymour Island. This is where you soon realize the incredible nature of the Galapagos Islands. The land and aquatic species have absolutely no fear of you. You are walking next to many species of birds, iguanas and even sea lions - they are indifferent to you. You can stand and watch them, only feet away. Nesting, mating - whatever they just go about their lives. That is the most incredible experience you will have on a trip to the Galapagos.
If you get a chance, you should try to plan your trip so it includes a visit to Santa Cruz Island where you will find the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here visitors can observe tortoise research and breeding programs. There is also a small museum that explains Charles Darwin's work and the numerous ecological programs that are in place to protect the Galapagos Islands - a World Heritage Site.
It's hard to not include over used phrases to describe ones Galapagos experience - but it does come to that. The islands are unique, stunning and a worthy addition to any travel bucket list. You walk carefully in awe - and appreciate the serenity and beauty of millions of years of unspoiled growth & evolution. The vegetation, the species, the ecosystem - now depend on us to be the guardians of their future.