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Panoramic caldera view on a Sierra Negra volcano tour, a highlight of a Galápagos five-day active tour

Sierra Negra Volcano Tour: 5 Days Hiking and Kayaking Isabela

Days Icon 5 Days
Location icon Galapagos
Budget icon From USD 1,304 p.p.
Request a quote Book now

Sierra Negra Volcano Tour Summary

Experience the Galápagos from a more active perspective on this five-day multisport adventure, combining hiking, kayaking, biking, and snorkeling on the archipelago’s largest island. Based on Isabela Island for four nights, you’ll explore volcanic landscapes, serene beaches, rugged lava fields, and crystal-clear waters while encountering some of the Galápagos’ most remarkable wildlife. These include giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, Galápagos penguins, sea lions, and colorful tropical fish.

Every day brings a new outdoor adventure, from paddling along the coastline to snorkeling with rays, reef sharks, and sea turtles in protected marine habitats. Whether you’re cycling through scenic landscapes or hiking across ancient lava flows, this journey offers an unforgettable way to experience the natural wonders of the Galápagos and Ecuador.

Highlights

  • check Sierra Negra Volcano

    Hike to the rim of Sierra Negra, one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas, for sweeping views across Isabela Island.

  • check Tintoreras Islet

    Snorkel the clear waters surrounding Tintoreras Islet, home to reef sharks, Galápagos penguins, sea lions, and marine iguanas.

  • check Puerto Villamil

    Explore Puerto Villamil, a relaxed seaside town with white-sand beaches, sea lion colonies, and easy access to Isabela’s natural attractions.

  • check Isabela Wetlands

    Wander through the Isabela Wetlands, where mangroves, lagoons, and walking trails provide habitat for flamingos, shorebirds, and giant tortoises.

Reviews

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Geoff V 
 
15/08/2025
 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Galapagos trip
Every detail and excursion was perfect. The guides were outstanding, hotel was first class. I would highly recommend Rebecca
  
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Daniel R 
 
06/02/2025
 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Intimate luxury Galapagos immersion
Highly recommend. The guide, nature hikes, snorkeling, kayaking, and food were outstanding. Rebecca Adventures is responsive and friendly.
  
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor rating score: 4.9 of 5, 
based on 588 reviews

Prices

Prices, based on number of guests, start at:
1 guestUSD 1,836 p.p.
2 - 3 guestsUSD 1,342 p.p.
4 or more guestsUSD 1,304 p.p.

Sierra Negra Volcano Tour: Day-by-Day Itinerary

Download itinerary

  • DAY 1: Baltra arrival, Santa Cruz crossing and speedboat to Isabela

    A blue-footed booby standing on coastal rocks along the route from Baltra to San Cristobal in the Galapagos Islands

    Your Galápagos multisport adventure begins upon arrival at Baltra Airport. To enjoy today’s activities as scheduled, we recommend booking a flight that arrives before noon.

    If your flight arrives before 12:00 PM, your English-speaking guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to Puerto Ayora for lunch before boarding the public speedboat to Isabela Island. The two-hour crossing can be choppy, so motion sickness medication and a light waterproof jacket are recommended. Upon arrival in Puerto Villamil, you’ll be transferred to your hotel.

    If your flight arrives after 12:00 PM, you’ll spend your first night on Santa Cruz, as the final speedboat to Isabela departs around 3:00 PM. Your itinerary will be adjusted accordingly.

    • Activity Activity:Wildlife Observation.
    • Transport Transport:Boat. Bus. Car.
    • Meal Meal:Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel La Laguna or similar.

  • DAY 2: Sierra Negra and Volcán Chico trek, Concha de Perla snorkeling

    Hikers walking along a narrow trail through grassy terrain on Isabela Island during a Sierra Negra trek in the Galapagos

    Today’s adventure begins with a drive into Isabela’s highlands for a guided hike across Sierra Negra Volcano, home to one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. The trail winds through dramatic lava landscapes before reaching panoramic viewpoints overlooking the immense crater, with a boxed lunch enjoyed along the way.

    After returning to Puerto Villamil for a short break, head to Concha de Perla for an afternoon of snorkeling. The calm, clear waters attract sea lions, tropical fish, marine iguanas, rays, and, with a bit of luck, sea turtles.

    • Activity Activity:Exploring. Hiking. Snorkeling. Wildlife Observation.
    • Transport Transport:Bus.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Box Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel La Laguna or similar.

  • DAY 3: Tortoise breeding centre, Wall of Tears ride and Tintoreras islet

    A cyclist stopping behind a giant tortoise crawling along a dirt trail on an isabela island biking tour in Galapagos

    After breakfast, cycle through Isabela’s coastal landscapes to visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center before continuing to the historic Wall of Tears, a massive stone structure built by prisoners during the island’s penal colony years. Along the way, keep an eye out for flamingos, marine iguanas, and other native wildlife.

    Following lunch, board a boat for nearby Tintoreras Islet. Explore lava trails lined with marine iguanas and Galápagos penguins before snorkeling alongside sea lions, colorful reef fish, and the white-tip reef sharks that give the islet its name.

    • Activity Activity:Biking. Sightseeing. Snorkeling. Wildlife Observation.
    • Transport Transport:Boat.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel La Laguna or similar.

  • DAY 4: Kayaking at Puerto Villamil and the Isabela highlands

    Family paddling in colorful sit-on-top kayaks along calm coastal waters during a Kayaking Isabela Island excursion

    This morning, explore the sheltered bay of Puerto Villamil by kayak, paddling along the coastline in search of sea lions, marine iguanas, Galápagos penguins, rays, and a variety of coastal birds. The calm waters provide excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and close-up encounters.

    After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon to relax on the beach, explore Puerto Villamil at your own pace, or simply unwind before your journey back to Santa Cruz the following morning.

    • Activity Activity:Biking. Kayaking. Sightseeing. Wildlife Observation.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel La Laguna or similar.

  • DAY 5: Speedboat to Santa Cruz and Baltra departure

    Two happy travelers with backpacks waving in front of the departures sign at Baltra Airport in the Galápagos Islands

    Early this morning, board the public speedboat back to Santa Cruz Island. A takeaway breakfast will be provided before departure.

    Upon arriving in Puerto Ayora, a Spanish-speaking driver will transfer you across the Itabaca Channel to Baltra Airport for your flight to mainland Ecuador, bringing your Galápagos multisport adventure to a close.

    • Transport Transport:Boat. Car. Bus.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.

Sierra Negra Volcano Tour Map

Inclusions

  • Meals as described in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation in a single, double or triple room.
  • Airport pickup and drop off at Baltra Airport at your arrival/departure time.
  • Transportation on and between the Islands as described in the itinerary.
  • Transportation between Baltra Airport – Itabaca Channel.
  • Local naturalist guide (English & Spanish speaking).
  • All activities as described in the itinerary.
  • Snorkeling equipment: mask, snorkel, fins and life vest.
  • Biking equipment: bike and helmet.
  • 24/7 assistance in English, Dutch and Spanish.

Exclusions

  • Flights between mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
  • Meals are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee: $200 per person (cash only).
  • Migratory Control Card (TCT): $20 per person (cash only).
  • Isabela Entrance Fee: $10 per person (cash only)
  • Water taxis: $1 per person (small boats that take you from the speedboat to the pier and vice versa)
  • Wetsuits are available for rent.
  • Rain boots for rent (recommended for the hike in Sierra Negra between June and September).
  • Personal medications and travel insurance.
  • Optional tips for the guide.

Accommodations

White multi-level exterior of Hotel La Laguna Galápagos in Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island
★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Isabela

La Laguna Galapagos Hotel

Charming boutique hotel located right by the flamingo lagoon with a scenic rooftop terrace.

  • Lagoon views
  • Rooftop terrace
  • Eco friendly

5 Active Days on Isabela: FAQs

  • What is a Galápagos active tour?

    A Galápagos active tour combines outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and biking with wildlife encounters, giving you an active way to experience the islands beyond traditional sightseeing.

  • How hard is the Sierra Negra volcano hike?

    Sixteen kilometres round trip on uneven volcanic ground, six to seven hours with stops. No technical climbing, but it demands normal fitness and broken-in walking shoes.

  • Can I kayak with sharks at Tintoreras?

    Yes. White-tipped reef sharks rest in the lava channels below the kayak route. They are not aggressive and the channels are sheltered, so the paddle suits beginners.

  • What is the Wall of Tears on Isabela?

    A six-metre lava wall built by prisoners of the Isabela penal colony in the 1940s. It sits five kilometres from Puerto Villamil along a flat road, usually ridden by bike.

  • Is this Galápagos tour suitable for beginners?

    The kayaking, cycling and snorkelling are beginner-friendly. Only the Sierra Negra trek needs real fitness, and it can be shortened to the caldera rim viewpoint.

  • When is the best time for the Sierra Negra trek?

    June to November brings cooler, drier walking conditions. December to May is hotter but clearer at the crater rim, where cloud often closes in during the garúa season.

Additional Information

  • Prices for the upcoming travel season are subject to change.
  • Essential items to bring include comfortable and lightweight clothing (with a jacket as a precaution), water, sunblock, sunglasses, and your passport.
  • To enter Ecuador, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended departure from the country.
  • Prices are subject to seasonal surcharges during Christmas, New Year’s, and Holy Week.
  • For children under the age of 12, there is a 10% discount.
  • Activity schedules are subject to change based on departure/arrival times and availability. All inclusions are guaranteed until the afternoon of the final day of the itinerary.
  • Maximize your time in the Galápagos by choosing early arrival and late departure flights. Late arrivals or early departures may cause you to miss some of the included tours.
  • Bring smaller baggage/bags since public transportation on the Galápagos Islands is quite limited.
  • ​​There are no guides on the public speedboat transportation between islands.
  • It is suggested to have current travel insurance, including personal medical insurance. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have.
  • Take the necessary precautions to avoid food poisoning (always wash your hands before eating, don’t eat street food, only eat peeled fruits, etc.).
  • Tap water in the Galápagos Islands might contain bacteria and should not be consumed, not even for brushing your teeth. Bottled or purified water is always recommended.
  • Rebecca Adventure Travel and the respective cruise operator reserve the right to change the itinerary without prior notice due to weather conditions,  availability, National Park regulations or notifications, or unforeseen circumstances.
  • When flying to the Galápagos from Quito or Guayaquil, we recommend arriving in the city at least 24 hours before your flight to avoid inconveniences.

Advantages of Booking with Rebecca Adventure Travel

  • Impactful Travel: Develop meaningful connections that provide mutual enrichment for both travelers and host cultures.
  • Empowering Locals: Support family-owned businesses, immerse yourself in local culture, and contribute to local economies.
  • Sustainable Travel: Preserve cultures and environments for future generations with our Huella Positiva, a sustainable and regenerative tourism model.
  • Peace of Mind: We’re here for you every step of the way, offering requisite insurance, certifications, and rebooking options.
  • Customized Service: Our personalized Travel Curator ensures your trip meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

When you book a tour with us, you agree to our terms and conditions.

Exact Code: 59GPB5MS

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