Las Cumbres, Shield volcano on Fernandina Island, Ecuador.
Description
Las Cumbres is a shield volcano on Fernandina Island that rises to 1476 meters above sea level with a broad, gently sloping form. Its structure consists of many layers of basaltic lava flows stacked upon one another.
History
The volcano formed millions of years ago through repeated eruptions that helped create the Galápagos Islands as they exist today. These volcanic processes continue to shape the archipelago's ongoing geological evolution.
Culture
The volcano draws researchers who study how volcanic activity shapes the local wildlife and plant life around it. These investigations help scientists understand how living things adapt to the harsh volcanic environment.
Practical
To reach the summit, you need a permit from Galápagos National Park and must book a tour with an authorized operator. Most visitors arrive by boat and then follow marked trails with expert guides.
Did you know?
In March 2024, an eruption sent lava flows into the ocean and created new coastline features. This event showed how active the volcano remains and how rapidly the island can change.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Galápagos Province).
Machalilla National Park
1199.8 km
Galápagos National Park
171.8 km
Sierra Negra
67.1 km
Volcán Wolf
51.5 km
Cocos Island National Park
824.3 km
Galápagos Marine Reserve
93.1 km
Wall of Tears
88.7 km
Reserva marina El Pelado
1209.5 km
Alcedo Volcano
48.4 km
Estadio Reales Tamarindos
1236.7 km
Rábida Island
93 km
Volcán Cerro Azul
64.4 km
Playa Varadero
1278.2 km
Poza Honda
1265.4 km
Catedral Emperatriz de Santa Elena
1206.9 km
Las Grietas
143.4 km
Botanical garden of Portoviejo
1236.7 km
Volcán Ecuador
39.9 km
Hospital Liborio Panchana Sotomayor
1207.6 km
Volcán Darwin
37.1 km
St. Nicholas Cathedral, Tumbes
1283.2 km
Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
223.1 km
Cerro Pajas
158.7 km
Islote Caamaño
147.3 km
Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
1208.3 km
Montañita Beach
1211.6 km
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes