If adventure had a name, it would surely be Bartolomé Island. The day kicked off with an invigorating hike up a wooden staircase that leads to one of the most breathtaking views in the Galápagos, Pinnacle Rock, standing proudly against a backdrop of golden beaches and volcanic terrain. Guides wove tales of fire and ash, revealing the island’s geological history, before leading the way down to a sun-drenched beach where marine iguanas struck their best reptilian poses and sea lions napped like professionals. But the real magic happened in the water—snorkeling alongside Galápagos penguins that zoomed past like feathered torpedoes, while sea turtles glided gracefully, and reef sharks patrolled the depths below.
Just when we thought the day couldn’t get better, Sombrero Chino was waiting, small but mighty, with lava formations that looked like a set from a prehistoric movie. The snorkeling here was nothing short of spectacular, with penguins showing off their speed, sea lions spinning like underwater acrobats, and schools of fish shimmering in the sunlight.
Later, as we kayaked along the rugged shore, it unveiled a whole new perspective where towering cacti grow defiantly from the volcanic rock, marine iguanas soak up the warmth, and Sally Lightfoot crabs scuttle across the black lava like tiny, colorful daredevils.
As the day came to a close, National Geographic Endeavour II drifted past the island’s signature hat-shaped silhouette, a reminder that some of the best treasures on earth require a little adventure to find.
