Short answer: Sierra Negra is the shield volcano above Puerto Villamil on Isabela, with a caldera about 10 km by 9 km that last erupted in June 2018. Tours drive about 45 minutes up from town, then walk 5 km from the El Cura control post to Volcán Chico, or 12 km to the sulphur mines. Guided tours take 6 hours to a full day and start from about $68 per person.
- IslandIsabela, above Puerto Villamil
- CalderaAbout 10 km by 9 km
- Trails5 km to Volcán Chico, 12 km to the sulphur mines
- Last eruptionJune 2018
What you will see
This is a landscape trip. The trail follows the caldera and leads to Volcán Chico on its northeast side, where you walk on recent lava flows with views over the volcanoes of Isabela and across to Fernandina. The longer trek to the other side of the caldera reaches the fumaroles of the sulphur mines (Minas de Azufre), crusted with sulphur crystals.
How to get there and what it costs
Tours pick you up in Puerto Villamil for a drive of about 45 minutes into the highlands. The trail starts at the El Cura control post and runs 5 km to Volcán Chico and 12 km to the sulphur mines. It is a national park visitor site, so you go with a certified naturalist guide.
Bring sturdy shoes, a rain jacket, sun protection and plenty of water: you spend several hours walking on open ground.
Tours that go to Sierra Negra start from about $68 per person (2 listings compared below). The national park entrance fee is paid once, on arrival in the islands: entrance fee and entry rules.
Best time to visit Sierra Negra
Sierra Negra can be hiked all year. In the cool, dry season, roughly June to November, the garúa mist often sits on the higher ground and can hide the caldera, so a clear morning is worth waiting for if your stay allows.
Weather, sea temperature and wildlife for every month: month-by-month guide.
Tours that go to Sierra Negra
Sierra Negra & Volcán Chico Walking Tour
Sierra Negra Volcano and Sulfur Mines
Prices and ratings as listed in November 2026; the price at checkout is what counts. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosure
Compare every day trip on all islands: day-tour finder.
See Sierra Negra on the 3D map →
Nearby: more visitor sites from Isabela
Isabela island guide · All visitor sites · Itinerary planner · Ferry board
Questions about Sierra Negra
How long is the Sierra Negra hike?
From the El Cura control post the trail is 5 km to Volcán Chico and 12 km to the sulphur mines. Tours take 6 hours to a full day including the drive from Puerto Villamil.
When did Sierra Negra last erupt?
In June 2018. Before that eruption the floor of the caldera rose 6.5 metres as magma collected beneath it, and it dropped 8.5 metres during the eruption.
Do you need a guide for Sierra Negra?
Yes. It is a national park visitor site, visited with a certified naturalist guide. Tours from Puerto Villamil include the guide and the drive, from about $68 per person.
Sources:Galápagos National Park and Governing Council, Galápagos Conservancy. More numbers:facts and figures.
Updated 2026-11-07. Fees, boat times and prices change, so confirm with the operator before you travel.