I did this 16km trek in November after some rain and the first part of the trail was very muddy and slippery. I recommend good shoes. The Sierra Negra crater was only visible for a minute and then covered back in the clouds. Good view on the area of El Chico volcano though. Book when on the island (35$) and ask for the group size (there was 26 people in my group ...)

There are several options as to where to walk to the volcano, we walked around 4km each way. Many tours leave early, we left a little later which helped as the cloud and mist was just starting to clear when we got there. It's a pleasant walk and our guide pointed out places where you could put your hand into the ground and feel the heat from the volcanic activity. He also pointed out the wildlife on the way. The crater at the top is incredibly large, and quite a sight. Really pleased we visited.

This was included in a tour, so I really don’t know how much it cost. I assume it was probably over $100. They did pack a small lunch for us and the walk was not what I would ever label a hike. I am an excellent condition And I had no problems however, if you’re not in excellent condition and you’re over 50 or overweight, I would not suggest it. Plus, once you get to the top and look into the volcano it’s just a dark pit and on the way up, there’s no animals and, some greenery. All tour guides are on a precise schedule, so they are pretty quick and really do not stop talk too much at all. Would not do this again, save your money, and use it for any boat tour or any snorkeling tour as the waters are gorgeous, marine life is gorgeous and snorkeling can’t be beat. Enjoy these beautiful lands.

Don’t miss out on this experience. We did the short hike down to the crater and back up again. To the previous reviewer who said it’s not for anyone over 50, you’re wrong. lol My friend and I just hiked it, we are both over 50 and it wasn’t a problem at all. If you’re not a couch potato, you can do the hike. Pros: - our outstanding naturalist guide who is passionate about the Galapagos, nature and the crater. - our guide stopped to give time for photos along the way - an active way to learn about nature in the Galapagos and Isabela Island. - packed lunch provided after hike - fresh drinking water provided after the hike since your water bottles will run dry by the time you hike back up. -walking poles provided. - we stopped at a farm on the way home and tasted fresh oranges, guava, papaya, banana and sugar cane and learned about the farming. Cons: Can’t think of any

If you have time, this is worth doing. Ignore reviews that say over 50s and overweight can’t do this hike. Total rubbish! I’m well into my 50s and managed just fine! And we had 2 overweight people in our group who also did just fine! Gosh, people’s biases can really be limiting! If you are relatively active and steady on your feet, you’ll do just fine. The descent is gradual and the trek through the crater is pretty impressive. The change in landscape is remarkable. The ascent back up is gradual with the last little bit the steepest but it doesn’t last long. It gets quite warm as the day progresses, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat. It takes about a couple of hours there and back, but that is not at a quick pace and with stops for photos, water and info. We had an excellent guide-Pablo- who took time to take photos, talk to us about the history of the volcano as well as the flora. There were light snacks and fresh water ready for us when we finished. Tip 1: get the early departure. We had stunning views over the crater which were totally obscured by clouds when we finished around 10:30-11am. It’s also cooler. Tip 2: use a hiking pole. It’ll help with the descent as it can be a little slippy in some areas. Good shoes are a must.