The first landing point is the Bartolome Summit Trail which begins with a dry landing on a jetty, from which you start your 600 metre trek through the wild and unearthly looking lava strewn landscape to the summit. From here the dramatic views towards Santiago Island, Pinnacle Rock and Daphne Island are simply stunning, the colours of the islands magnified by the turquoise waters that separate them. The second landing is a small beach in a cove where you will find excellent swimming and snorkelling opportunities, and maybe even a chance to swim with the endemic Galapagos penguins that frequent the area. The best way to see and photograph the penguins, however, is a panga ride close to pinnacle rock where they clamber the narrow ledge at the base, as sea lions relax on the rocks, seemingly waiting to play with potential snorkellers. A third point of interest is the beach parallel to the first, where marine turtles come to nest between January and March.

Bartholome may be the most visited island, but that takes nothing away from the experiences available here; from the views to the wildlife, every aspect is completely unforgettable. From meeting endemic penguins to seeing the renowned Pinnacle Rock, this uninhabited island is a must on your Galapagos cruise itinerary.