Day 10 - Hike to Sierra Negra Volcano

Camp Duro

Waking up to the sound of rosters is how a true day of adventure begins, and this was exactly how we woke up on this fine cloudy morning at Camp Duro. After showering with spiders and visiting the Galapagos tortoise pen, we ate a solid breakfast of fresh fruit and eggs.  We then hit the road for the trail head to Sierra Negra volcano. On our way to view the volcanic caldera we saw a tortoise, ground finches, and a warbler. We then crossed the barren lava field to Volcan Chico.  The scene was quiet impressive and gave you sense of how gigantic a volcano can truly be. In total the hike was 8 miles of mud, volcanic rock, grass, and beautiful scenery. As Spencer pointed out on our way back, (in his imagination) there was an elusive deep red blur soaring above us the whole trip which was later identified as the Phoenix. Once done with our volcanic excursion we hit the beach for snorkeling at Concha de Perla. The water was shallower than our last excursions but was still enjoyable and we were able to swim with marine iguanas! The night ended by going to a steak house in Puerto Villamil recommended by our guide, which all looked great but was all extremely overpriced and turned-out to be managed by the same guide.  We went with the "set" menu that night, and ended the meal with ice cream from a local convince store.

by Jimmy King

Trail to Sierra Negra

Shep checking out warm  air coming out of volcanic tube.

Spencer comparing types of volcanic rocks.

Checking out lava tube.

Hiking down to lava field.

Jose with Galapagos tortoise in the wild.

Lava rock in Sierra Negra Caldra.

Snorkling at Concha de Perla.

Sea lion resting on board walk.