Rock and Sand

(This blog about Bartolome Island contains numerous photos which are displayed in a mosaic pattern. Please try clicking on any one of the photos in each of the 3 groups and it should enlarge it and the others if you arrow along.)

One of the most visited and photographed places that our Photo Tour Trekkers visited in the Galapagos is the  barren island known as Bartolome. It is located in Sullivan Bay to the east of Santiago Island. The most recognizable landmark is Pinnacle Rock which is a volcanic cone formed when magma was expelled from an underwater volcano. We could see Pinnacle Rock in the distance when our 2 zodiacs landed on the beautiful white sand beach. The  sand really contrasted with the rugged black lava rocks and pristine aqua waters of the bay. When the volcano exploded , the sea water created this giant formation made up of many thin layers of basalt.  We walked amidst various volcanic formations including spatter and tough cones. Some of my photos capture these  formations.

Sand and Lava

Rock and Sand

Pinnacle Rock

Linda on a Tough Trail

Lava Formations

Lava Formation 2

Bartolome Cliffs

A Few Cacti

Moon Landing or Bartolome-

Our group walked carefully on the very uneven surface. We were amazed by the various types of lava formations which had been created when the lava cooled over 3 million years ago. I believe that the many photos which I took of small sections of the rough trail beneath our feet will make some interesting and creative framed prints.

A Tough Hike

No Mans Land

Bartolome is home to the Galapagos penguin, the second smallest penguin species in the world. The Galapagos penguins have suffered various challenges to their existence but this specie is slowly recovering. We were fortunate enough to see a few perched on the rocky shore and one swimming gracefully as we headed back to Archipell I just before sunset.

(Information taken from the Galapagos Conservancy website)