Sierra Negra and Volcán Chico
The walk to Sierra Negra and Volcán Chico is one of the best ways to experience Isabela as a living volcanic island.
Sierra Negra
Sierra Negra is an active shield volcano with an immense caldera measuring approximately 9 by 7 kilometres (5.6 by 4.3 miles). From the rim, visitors can appreciate its scale and see lava fields created by relatively recent eruptions.
The first part of the route passes through the cooler, greener highlands. Cloud can sometimes obscure the caldera, while rain may leave the trail wet or muddy.
Volcán Chico
Volcán Chico is a fissure area on the flank of Sierra Negra rather than a separate volcano. Continuing there leads into a much drier and more exposed landscape of lava formations, vents, fumaroles and striking volcanic colours.
This extension is the most visually varied part of the excursion, but it also makes the walk longer and more demanding.
Planning the walk
The complete excursion is commonly around 16 kilometres (10 miles), although the precise distance depends on the route followed. It is undertaken as an organised guided excursion from Puerto Villamil and takes several hours.
Conditions can range from rain and mud in the highlands to intense sun and heat around Volcán Chico. Good walking footwear, sun and rain protection, and sufficient drinking water are essential.
Interested in visiting Sierra Negra and Volcán Chico?
Tell us your approximate travel dates, group size and interests. We’ll help you fit this experience into a sensible Galápagos itinerary.
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