We decided to do the Sierra Negra hike during our stay on Isabela Island, and it ended up being a nice addition to our trip. The Galápagos Islands were shaped by volcanic activity, and this hike gives you a chance to see that up close—walking along the edge of one of the world’s largest volcanic craters and across a Mars-like lava field.
Isabela is the largest and most volcanically active island in the Galápagos, and spending a few days here lets you experience its diverse landscapes, from beaches to lush highlands.
The Sierra Negra hike is a great way to take in the island’s unique geology while getting in a solid day of hiking. Here’s what to expect and everything you need to know before you book.
This website contains affiliate links that might earn a commission for purchases made at no additional cost you.
What to Expect on the Sierra Negra Hike
We started the day with an early morning pickup at the main plaza. The sky was overcast and drizzly, so I wasn’t sure what we were in for.
After a 30-minute ride to the trailhead, we found ourselves above the clouds and out of the gloomy weather! We immediately started our hike on a flat, wide, even trail. With no major elevation changes, I’d say this hike is easy although somewhat long.
The first stop is at the massive Sierra Negra caldera. At about 10 km (6.2 miles) wide, it’s the second-largest volcanic caldera in the world. Standing at the edge, you’re met with a vast, dark crater surrounded by lush green vegetation. It feels surreal. Our guide shared the history of the volcano and pointed out the differences between ‘a’a’ and pahoehoe lava—two types of lava with distinct textures.
From there, we continued walking toward the picnic shelter. Along the way, we spotted a tiny vermilion flycatcher, a bright red bird that was too far and too small for me to get a good picture of—but still very cute!
The tour included a boxed lunch, so we stopped at the picnic shelter for a break. The shade was VERY welcome—it was hot, way hotter than anywhere else we’d been in the Galápagos, and the sun was intense. The lunch itself was pretty small, and I was definitely hungry an hour later. If you tend to get hungry, bring snacks!
After lunch, we continued on to Volcán Chico, which—despite its name—isn’t a separate volcano, but rather an extension of Sierra Negra.
This is where the landscape completely changes. Most of the vegetation disappears, leaving behind a Mars-like expanse of black, red, and orange volcanic rock. As you hike further, the coastline comes into view, making for some stunning scenery.
We spent about 20 minutes exploring before starting the hike back. This time, we didn’t stop, so the return was much quicker. While the hike itself is easy, it’s long, so wear comfortable shoes!
Sweaty, dusty, and a little sunburned, we headed back to town tired but happy.
How to Visit the Sierra Negra Volcano
Where Do I Book?
You can book through tour agencies in Puerto Villamil or online in advance. Most tours include transportation, a guide, and a boxed lunch.
Hiking Tour to Sierra Negra Volcano | Click for pricing and availability.
Can You Visit Without a Tour?
No. Like many activities in the Galápagos, you can only hike Sierra Negra with a registered tour or a certified naturalist guide.
You also can only do this hike if you stay on Isabela Island on a land-based Galapagos trip. The hike starts early in the morning so you would not be able to take the ferry from another island in time.
Is the Volcano Active?
Yes! Sierra Negra is one of the most active volcanoes in the Galápagos. There have been seven eruptions since the early 1900s, with the most recent one in 2018. These eruptions are not explosive, but rather produce a steady flow of lava for weeks or months at a time.
What Wildlife Can You See?
While Sierra Negra is not a major wildlife hotspot, you might spot:
- Darwin’s finches
- Mockingbirds
- Vermilion flycatchers
What to Bring on the Sierra Negra Hike
This is a long hike at a higher elevation, so come prepared:
- Lots of water
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Hiking boots
I didn’t bring a hat, sunscreen, or snacks—and I regretted it. I ended up with tan lines on my right shoulder and ankle that lasted for months. Don’t be me!
Is It Worth It?
We love hiking and getting to experience the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of the Galápagos—so for us, YES! At $40, this tour is also way cheaper than most other activities in the Galápagos, which was a nice bonus.
That said, if your main reason for visiting the Galápagos is wildlife, this might not be the best tour for you. We saw a grand total of two birds the entire time—not exactly a wildlife extravaganza.
If you’re up for a scenic, unique, and budget-friendly adventure, though, Sierra Negra is absolutely worth it – besides snorkeling at Los Tuneles, it’s the best thing we did!
More Posts About Ecuador
Visit the Galapagos without a Cruise: a COMPLETE Guide
Snorkeling at Los Tuneles, Galapagos: Tour Review
10 Best Things to Do in Cuenca Ecuador
Pumapungo Museum: Cuenca’s Incan Ruins
Victoria is an Austin-based travel content creator passionate about encouraging her readers to step outside of their comfort zone and step in to a life of adventure. She is the founder of the travel blog Nomad No Problem.