That night, we did not have to sail and slept much better anchored in a bay off of Pinnacle Rock on Bartolome. This is a beautiful location and was used in the movie "Master and Commander".
Unfortunately, our daughter, Megan got sick in the middle of the night with some type of stomach virus and decided to stay on the ship while we went for a dry landing in the morning. Bartolome is a mostly baron volcanic island consisting of parasitic cones which last erupted hundreds of years ago. Only a few plants have established themselves, some of which serve as food for the Lava Lizard. A wooden walkway has been constructed to help protect the slopes from erosion.
We hiked to the top of the highest parasitic cone and enjoyed a panoramic view of the island as well as close-by Santiago. Below, we could see Pinnacle Rock. In "Master and Commander", Russell Crowe peers through a spyglass from this very spot. The only vegetation we could see consisted of a stretch of mangrove lining a white sandy beach just adjacent to Pinnacle Rock where we were to snorkel.
This spot isanother Eden-like location. Pelicans perched on the walls of Pinnacle Rock and periodically dove into the water after fish. Galapagos Penguins raced back and forth hunting for food as well. Snorkeling around Pinnacle Rock was spectacular. I had a chance to see two Reef Sharks measuring about four feet in length. Later, a young sea lion appeared to be playing with one of the young children on the beach.
We later boarded the ship and went to a small island to re-fuel. We then embarked for a short trip to North Seymour for a hike. The highlight of this excursion was the chance to see Frigate birds both nesting and performing their mating rituals. We also had a chance to see the Land Iguana which does not feed on algae but rather eats the abundant cactus on the island. Blue-footed Boobies were also abundant and were seen nesting on un-hatched eggs. Some were also feeding their fluffy white chicks. During mating, the male Frigate birds inflate a large red pouch near their throat to attract the female. The pouches also allow them to make loud clucking noises with their beaks.
Clara and Rhenee were gracious and available. Phone contact is so important to answer questions and discuss all aspects of trip. If not immediately available they scheduled a time to speak.
They were knowledgeable, honest, realistic and very friendly. They are both very professional and take their role seriously.
Happy Camper
20 hours ago
Jason has been wonderful. He is full of information and was very willing to listen to what was of interest to us.
Lee
2 days ago
The ability (of Kassandra) to tailor a guided trip to my exact preferences is very valuable to me, as well as the ability (of Kassandra) to provide expert guidance on destinations and travel dates. I also appreciate the ability of the backup staff (Maria Ignacio, Exito Travel) to coordinate all the details to make the travel logistics easy for the customer.
Mark Whalen
2 days ago
Our Costa Rica trip was amazing! Kassandra planned everything and the excursions, hotels, overall organization were outstanding. Everything worked out smoothly, the excursions guides were knowledgeable allowing us to see so much of the fauna and flora of the country. The hotels were great as well, all in fantastic locations and with beautiful views.
Danny
2 days ago
This is our 7th trip Kassandra has planned and she is wonderful to work with. She is responsive, helpful, patient and knowledgeable. We are so grateful to have the opportunity to work together with her. We love Adventure Life!