For the past month or so, volcanic activity on Isabela Island has been affecting Sierra Negra hikes.

Recent increases in volcanic activity near Sierra Negra volcano on Isabela Island in the Galapagos have caused certain areas to be off limits to visitors, which means that our scheduled volcano hikes on Isabela Island have been modified.

Since Janaury 17, 2018, the hiking area known as Volcan Chico, a parasitic cone on Sierra Negra, has been closed. The lava fields and lookout are no longer accessible as the Galapagos National Park continues to monitor the volcanic activity.

The trail may be re-opened at any time, or other areas may be restricted, depending on seismic activity.

As of mid-February 2018, hikes to Sierra Negra Volcano are still allowed, passing through various vegetation zones, culminating with views of the impressive caldera at a couple of lookout points. An alternative return route provides a change of scenery for hikers.

For now, there are no indications that volcano hikes will be stopped all together. As the current hike is shorter than what Galakiwi travelers typically experience, it means our travelers will usually have a couple of extra hours to enjoy other activities on Isabela Island. Some independent options include snorkeling at Concha de Perla, enjoying the beach in Puerto Villamil, biking to the Wall of Tears or hiking out to Playa Amor.

As the Galapagos National Park and Instituto Geofísico - EPN continue to monitor the situation, there is no risk to travel to the rest of Isabela Island. Sierra Negra last erupted in 2005. If the situation on Sierra Negra changes, we’ll continue to update this page.