The Sierra Negra Volcano is one of the landmarks on Isabela Island, at an altitude of 1124 m., and with a 100-m. depth. It is a large basaltic shield active volcano located on the southern end of Isabela Island in the Galapagos.
From my perspective, Sierra Negra Volcano is a “must” if you are visiting Isabela, because of many reasons: it is one of the few Galapagos’ volcanos accessible for trekking, making it the most popular one on the island. Second, its caldera is the second largest volcanic caldera in the world, with a diameter of around 10 km. Moreover, you will witness the effects of recent volcanic activity, including fumaroles, and barren lava terrain.
How to visit Sierra Negra Volcano
If you are staying at Isabela for more than one day, the best way to visit the Sierra Negra Volcano is to book a tour, either with your tour agent or directly with the operator (you can do it in advance before arriving to secure your spot). Most operators will charge between USD 55 and USD 60 for this tour, consisting on a hike.
Most of the tours begin in Puerto Villamil town, where you will be picked up, either in your hotel or in another central area, and then taken to the Sierra Negra Volcano checkpoint, in the highlands of Isabela. This journey takes approximately 45 minutes, and could be in a “Chiva”, a famous type of transportation within the island. Once you reach the checkpoint and general instructions are given by your guide(s), the hike begins up to the top of the caldera.
What to expect
Throughout the trail, you will walk through various types of ecosystems, including humid lands, barren lava fields, and rocky terrain. Have your camera ready, since you will walk past some panoramic viewpoints, just before arriving at the top of the caldera. Here, your guide will give you some time to rest and take more pictures.
After you reach the highest point of the caldera, depending on the weather conditions and the physical performance of the group, you might continue the hike to an area of Sierra Negra Volcano, known as “Volcan Chico”, where you will see plenty of fumaroles and fresh lava fields, a result of a relatively-recent eruption in 1979. I encourage you to advance to this area if you are given the choice, for it is a sight to see the colorful fumaroles.
Some animals you might spot in Sierra Negra volcano (depending on the weather and other factors), are the Darwin finch, the Galapagos martin, and the Galapagos hawk. On the way up to the caldera, in the humid part, you will see guava trees, considered an invasive species.
The tour will end with the operator taking you back to you pick-up point.
General recommendations
The round hike, including rest time, takes about 5 hours to complete. So be prepared. Even though is not a technically difficult hike, it is a physically demanding one, mainly due to the weather conditions, and the diverse types of terrain you will walk on. Besides the box lunch that your tour operator will probably provide, take with you some more snacks, and at least 1,5 or 2 liters of hydration.
Another useful recommendation is using the clothing and gear you would in any other trail: quick-dry pants, quick-dry t-shirts, hike shoes. Avoid standard sports shoes or sandals, and prefer hiking shoes over them. Your feel will thank you after the hike!
Are you planning on visiting Isabela soon and would like suggestions for your trip? Do not hesitate in contacting us. We will be happy to help!
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