Sierra Negra & Volcán Chico
Volcán Sierra Negra
One of the world’s second-largest calderas, about 10 km across. A hike along the rim leads to Chico volcano, with its colored lava and volcanic cones.
Volcán Sierra Negra is an active volcano in the south of Isabela Island. Its caldera measures about 7 × 10 km, and it erupted in both 2005 and 2018. The classic route starts at the high-altitude parking area and follows the caldera rim for about 8 km to a viewpoint overlooking the black lava lake. It then continues to the flank volcano Chico, where you can see red, yellow and black lava, fumaroles and cinder cones. On clear days you can look out toward Fernandina Island. The round trip is about 16 km and takes 5–6 hours. You must go with a certified guide, and group fees are around US$50–60. From town it is about 45 minutes by vehicle to the trailhead. The trail surface is volcanic gravel and dirt. It is exposed to the sun in the dry season and muddy in the rainy season, so bring plenty of water, sun protection and a raincoat.
Opening hours
Hiking tours usually depart at 07:30
Nearby sights
- Wall of Tears
- Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center
- Poza de los Flamencos
- Puerto Villamil Beach
- Concha de Perla
- Los Túneles
- Las Tintoreras
- Cuatro Hermanos Islets