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Volcano · Puerto Villamil, Galápagos
Volcán Sierra Negra
A 1,124-meter shield volcano in the southeast of Isabela, with one of the largest calderas in the Galápagos, visited on a guided walk along the rim and across lava fields.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Volcán Sierra Negra
Sierra Negra is a 1,124-meter shield volcano in southeast Isla Isabela, the closest to Puerto Villamil, and one of the most active in the Galápagos. The summit is a wide caldera, several kilometers in diameter, with a floor covered in dark lava.
The visit is a guided hike that starts in the highlands, after a drive from the village. The trail climbs the slope, partly through the moist highland vegetation, up to the eastern rim of the caldera, from where you can look into the volcano. After that, the trail continues to the more recent lava fields and to Volcán Chico, an area of cones and fissures with sulfur and iron colors.
In the highlands, from June to November, there is often mist and drizzle that sometimes cover the caldera; in the warm season the sky is usually clearer.
Like other Galápagos volcanoes, Sierra Negra has phases of activity. Check before you go whether the trail is open.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 5 to 7 hours, including the transfer and the hike.
Best time
From December to May the sky is usually clearer over the caldera. Start early to avoid the strong sun on the lava fields. Check beforehand whether the trail is open.
How to get there
Tours depart from Puerto Villamil by car to the trailhead in the highlands, with a licensed guide. The hike is about 16 km round trip to Volcán Chico.
Tip
Bring a rain jacket for highland mist, plus sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water for the lava fields. Wear hiking footwear.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Volcán Sierra Negra
How high is Sierra Negra?
About 1,124 meters.
Is a guide required?
Yes, the hike to Sierra Negra is done with a park-accredited guide.
Is the hike difficult?
It's long, about 16 km round-trip, with a gentle ascent and stretches over lava. It requires being prepared to walk for several hours.
Is the caldera always visible?
No. From June to November fog can cover the rim. From December to May the sky is usually clearer.