Bartolome, the star island of the Galapagos, is located to the east of Santiago Island facing Sullivan Bay. It is the most photographed island in the chain due to its 350 ft. summit and its magnificent view, which creates a tropical landscape panorama. The moonlike landscape is riddled with different formations of volcanic rock including lava flows and lava tubes. Bartolome is an island full of exploration and adventure. After a 60-meter hike, visitors can take in the Pinnacle Rock, one of the best-known landmarks in the archipelago. Remains of volcanic ash particles have created with time this large formation, which rises 70 meters above a nearby cove. Near the base of the statuesque pinnacle rock you can see a large variety of multi-colored fish, sea lions, and indigenous Galapagos penguins, which can be seen while snorkeling or swimming in the surrounding waters of Bartolome. This little animal has the northernmost range of any other species of penguins. This penguin is prevalent to this area as there are around 2500 pairs. Another one of the many amazing animals that may be encountered on this island is the Great Blue Heron. Foliage behind the beach consists of the red and white mangrove, saltbush, morning glory and the prickly pear cactuses. Between the months of January and March visitors may catch a glimpse of different species of sea turtles as they lay their eggs on the beach. Visitors to Bartolome may take a walk through mangroves where mating sea turtles and white tipped sharks are commonplace.