Sulphur Mine Tour
Ready to hike through one of the world’s most active volcanic craters, explore steaming sulphur vents, walk inside a lava tunnel, and discover life in the highlands of Isabela Island—all in a single unforgettable morning?
This tour to the Sulphur Mines is more than just hot air—it’s an exclusive experience that blends adventure, geology, culture, and conservation. Get off the beaten path and step deep into the heart of the Galapagos
- Departure: 7.20
- Duration: 6 hours
- Group size: Max. 16
- Fitness level: Medium
- Alternative: Sierra Negra - Volcan Chico
A Journey Inside Sierra Negra’s Living Volcano
Into the Crater: The Power Beneath Your Feet
Your day begins at 7:20 AM with a hotel pick-up. After a scenic 30-minute drive to the entrance of the Sierra Negra Volcano, you’ll have a chance to stretch your legs and use the restrooms. We then continue by taxi to the top edge of the massive crater.
From here, the real adventure begins. You’ll hike inside the caldera of one of the most active shield volcanoes in the Galapagos. The trail takes you across surreal volcanic terrain, leading you to the steaming sulphur mines—a vibrant, otherworldly landscape that’s still visibly alive. Along the way, your guide will explain how these sulphur deposits formed, the significance of past eruptions, and the dynamic geology of Sierra Negra.
After 1.5 to 2 hours of hiking, we pause to refill water bottles and enjoy a well-deserved snack while soaking in the alien beauty of the landscape.
From Crater to Canopy: The Viewpoint and Native Forests
As we make our way back, we stop at a spectacular viewpoint where you can take in the massive scale of the Sierra Negra crater—one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world.
Then it’s time to head into the lush highlands, where a completely different world awaits. Our first stop: the Juan Chaves Forest Nursery, a key site in the National Park’s conservation efforts. Here, we share stories of the endangered Scalesia forest, invasive species, and what’s being done to preserve native plants that only grow in the Galapagos.
Follow the Flow of the Lava
Next, we descend into the Cueva de Sucre, a 50-meter-long lava tunnel formed by past eruptions of Sierra Negra. It’s a natural reminder of the volcano’s unstoppable energy and the ever-changing face of Isabela Island. You’ll learn how these tunnels form and what they reveal about the island’s volcanic history.
Living History in the Highlands
We wrap up our journey with a visit to the highland farming village of Tomás de Berlanga, a place many travelers never get to see. Here, you’ll get a taste of life as an Isabeleño, from traditional farming to community life in one of the island’s most fertile regions.
This isn’t just a walk through nature—it’s a walk through time. Hear about the challenges of highland living, hunting traditions, and rural education, all straight from locals who live it every day.
A Farm-Fresh Finale
The tour ends with a homemade highland lunch at a family-run farm. Enjoy a typical Ecuadorian meal featuring soup, a main dish of rice and beans with chicken or a vegetarian option, fruit juice and water—and a dessert of seasonal fruit straight from the land.
We’ll also treat you to a local yogurt tasting, made right on the farm.
You’ll be back at your hotel by 1:00–1:30 PM, with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of the natural and human forces that shape Isabela Island.
Why Book this tour to the sulphur mines?
- Go where others don’t: Deep into the Sierra Negra Crater and to the hidden Sulphur Mines
- Experience contrast: From steaming vents to cool forests and lava tunnels
Connect with local culture: Visit a real Galapagos farm and community
Support conservation: Learn how locals and rangers work to protect native species
Taste the highlands: Enjoy a delicious farm-to-table meal and fresh produce
This tour offers more than just hot air— it’s a unique opportunity to connect with the volcano, the land, and the people who call Isabela home.
Book your Sulphur Mines Adventure now and experience the Galapagos like never before.
Inclusions
- Experiences Naturalist Guide
- Transporation from and to the Hotel
- Delicous and typical Lunch (vegetarian & vegan options)
- Snacks & Water Refill
- LED Headlamps for the Lava Tunnel
- Yogurt Tasting
- Fresh Fruit
- Unique Pictures & Memories to take home
- Gratitudes for Crew & Guide
- Additional Services
- Alcoholic Beverages
What can I discover?
Packing List
Sun Protection & Glases
Equator Sunshine Extravaganza: UV Rays Here Pack a Sizzling Punch, Don’t Mess with them!
Light Rain Jacket
In the highlands (Beginning of the hike) it can come to slight rain showers.
Camera/Go Pro
Capture your adventures and take home the best souvenir possible
Drinking water
Do something good for nature by bringing a refillable water bottle.
Good Walking Shoes
For your own safety please bring shoes with profile.
Hiking Poles
Those are optional. Bring them with you for your comfort.
Discover now Sierra Negra's Sulphur Mines
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