Sierra Negra, an active volcano on Isabela Island in the Galapagos, has a name that translates to “Black Mountain.” It’s a fitting title for this impressive shield volcano, which, despite its calm appearance, has shown recent activity—the most recent eruption taking place as recently as the summer of 2018.
One of Sierra Negra’s most awe-inspiring features is its enormous crater, which ranks among the largest in the world. Hiking to see this massive crater up close is a must for anyone visiting the Galapagos, making it a top bucket-list destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
This tour is quite popular, so be sure to book in advance. We booked here, and the price matched what local agencies on Isabela Island offered. We also saw horseback riding on the volcano, which looked amazing! I didn’t know about this option beforehand, so spots were unavailable when we visited. But if you’re into horseback riding with stunning views, you can reserve it in advance here too!
How to Get to Sierra Negra Volcano
Sierra Negra sits about 13 miles (21 kilometers) from Puerto Villamil, the main settlement on Isabela Island, and is one of the six volcanoes that shape the island’s unique landscape.
To reach Sierra Negra, there are two main options: land tours or cruises. Some Galapagos cruises include a stop at Sierra Negra, though it’s essential to double-check your yacht’s itinerary since not all cruises feature this incredible volcano.
If you’re visiting by land, guided day tours from Puerto Villamil are a popular choice. These tours, available as private or group options, typically run most days of the week and come complete with a naturalist guide, transportation, and a packed lunch—making for a well-rounded experience in the heart of Isabela Island’s volcanic landscape.
Best Time to Visit Sierra Negra
You can visit Sierra Negra any time of the year, but each season offers a slightly different experience. If you prefer cooler and drier conditions, plan your hike between June and November. The weather is more comfortable for walking, making it an ideal time for longer hikes.
On the other hand, if you don’t mind slightly warmer weather and the chance of a little rain, consider visiting between December and May. While the wetter season can make the trail a bit muddy, a good pair of hiking boots will get you through just fine. For us, the experience felt a little more adventurous with the lush surroundings brought by the occasional rain, making the landscape feel alive and vibrant.
Wildlife in Sierra Negra
Birdlife is abundant around Sierra Negra, with Darwin’s finches, flycatchers, and mockingbirds frequently spotted along the trail. We loved seeing these unique birds, especially knowing how integral they are to the Galapagos’ natural history. For those lucky enough, there’s even a chance to catch sight of the elusive Galapagos hawk, soaring above the volcanic landscape.
The southern slopes of the volcano are also home to the iconic giant tortoise, though sightings are rare on the hike itself. Still, knowing these majestic creatures inhabit the same terrain added a special layer to our experience, reminding us just how unique and precious this ecosystem truly is.
Activities in Sierra Negra
Trekking in Sierra Negra
The main attraction here is the hike up to the crater rim, offering breathtaking views that make every step worth it. The trail is a 1.5-kilometer dirt path, rated easy to moderate, gradually climbing from 900 to 1,100 meters above sea level. For us, it was the perfect mix of challenge and enjoyment, with the only real obstacle being the mud if you happen to go during the rainy season. Good shoes are a must!
For those craving a bit more adventure, you can extend the hike to Volcan Chico, a parasitic vent volcano with surreal, almost lunar landscapes that feel like stepping onto another planet. This part of the trek was a highlight for us, adding a wild, otherworldly dimension to the day.
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And on a clear day, the views are simply unbeatable—you can even see Darwin Volcano and the islands of Santiago, Fernandina, and Pinzón in the distance. It’s a panoramic sight that left us in awe, making the journey even more rewarding.
Horseback Riding
If hiking up sounds like too much of a challenge, renting a horse is a fantastic alternative. You can ride up to the Sierra Negra lookout, enjoying the scenic journey from the saddle as your horse steadily follows the trail. It’s a great way to take in the beauty of the lush highlands without the physical effort.
Although my wife and I opted to hike instead, we saw a few travelers taking this route, looking quite relaxed as they enjoyed the scenery from a higher vantage point. For anyone wanting a more leisurely experience, the horseback option offers a unique and comfortable way to explore Sierra Negra.
Picnic Under a Tree
After a long hike, nothing feels better than treating yourself to a picnic under the shade of an ancient Jaboncillo, or soapberry tree. We found these wooden benches near the Sierra Negra lookout, nestled under the tree’s massive branches, to be a perfect resting spot. It felt like the ideal place to unwind and take in the view.
The Jaboncillo tree itself is quite fascinating. Its nuts can actually be used as a natural soap—slice them open, add a bit of water, and they form a lather! It’s amazing to think that for centuries, indigenous cultures around the world have used these nuts for washing. Sitting under this tree, learning about its history and uses, added an unexpected touch of nature’s ingenuity to our experience.
Bird Sighting
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Bird watchers will find the Sierra Negra trail a true paradise for spotting unique wildlife. My wife and I were thrilled to see mockingbirds and several species of Darwin finches flitting through the bushes and shrubs along the trail. Every so often, a flash of bright red or yellow would catch our eye as a vermillion flycatcher or yellow warbler made a brief appearance, adding a pop of color to the green landscape.
We also kept our eyes on the sky, hoping to catch sight of a Galapagos hawk. Watching one soar majestically on the thermals above was a breathtaking moment, reminding us of the island’s natural beauty and the wild spirit that defines this place.
Sierra Negra Travel Tips
First, this this tour is very popular, so be sure to book in advance. We booked here, and the price matched what local agencies on Isabela Island offered. We also saw horseback riding on the volcano, which looked amazing! I didn’t know about this option beforehand, so spots were unavailable when we visited. But if you’re into horseback riding with stunning views, you can reserve it in advance here too!
Second, hiking the Sierra Negra and Volcan Chico trails does call for a reasonable level of fitness, as the paths can be muddy and uneven. My wife and I made sure to dress accordingly, wearing layers and sturdy hiking boots, and found that having hiking poles was incredibly helpful, especially on the steeper sections.
The weather was another adventure in itself. Early mornings greeted us with a refreshing chill, but as the day progressed, the sun quickly intensified, warming up the trail. A light rain shower even caught us by surprise at one point, so we were glad to have packed a rain jacket. The changing conditions only added to the experience, making each part of the hike feel unique and memorable.
We recommend wearing the following for a comfortable hike:
- comfortable walking shoes or trekking sandals (open-toe sandals are not suitable)
- shorts or light trekking trousers
- t-shirt or light long-sleeved shirt
- light rain jacket
Do not forget to bring the following essential items too:
- Sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunblock)
- Water bottle (at least 1-2 liters)
- Trail food or energy snacks
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- Cellphone
Bottom Line
Sierra Negra stands out as the most iconic volcano in the Galapagos. Its accessibility and ease of access make it a top choice for visitors to Isabela Island. For my wife and me, it was the perfect adventure to dive into the volcanic origins of the Galapagos, gaining a deeper understanding of how these islands were formed.
The hike to the crater is an absolute must. Every step brought us closer to stunning panoramic views, with the vast volcanic landscape unfolding before us. It’s a journey that combines adventure, natural beauty, and a bit of geology all in one—a memorable experience we couldn’t recommend more!
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