Sierra Negra Volcano

The Basics

Hike, bike or go on horseback to the volcano’s 6-mile (9.6 kilometers) caldera. Watch the fog roll in, blanketing the crater entirely before rolling out, revealing the stark contrast of verdant flora growing out from black molten lava, and the new remnants of the most recent eruption. Tours to Sierra Negra must be taken with a certified guide. Some tours combine excursions to the other attractions on Isabela such as Wall of Tears, the turtle breeding and rescue center, and the lava tunnels of Las Tintoreras. Multi-day tours island-hop around the archipelago, cruising to remote areas of the national park.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Sierra Negra Volcano is an ideal spot for adventure and nature lovers.
• Wear comfortable hiking shoes, and carry plenty of water.
• Moderate fitness is required, as the path is uphill.
• The gravely path is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
• Restrooms are available at the trailhead.

How to Get There

Sierra Negra Volcano is at the southeast end of Isabela island accessible from Puerto Villamil. Drive from the city about 45 minutes to a parking lot, and from there, hike or bike about 10 miles (16 kilometers) to the caldera. Horses are also available.

When to Get There

With an unpredictable climate, you must be prepared for both sun and rain. Fog is almost always there, so day time is considered to be the best. Due to the recent active volcanic activity, the site is sometimes closed for hiking. It is therefore advisable to enquire before planning a visit.

Wall of Tears (El Muro de las Lágrimas)

Another great hike on Isabela is the coastal trail to the Wall of Tears, a remnant of a dark moment in Isla Isabela’s history, the 65-foot (20-meter) Wall of Tears was constructed by hundreds of prisoners held captive in a penal colony created by then President José María Velasco Ibarra. From 1945 to 1959, prisoners were forced to cut and haul chunks of volcanic rock to build the wall, which had no practical use.