Nestled in the heart of Post Office Bay on Floreana Island, the lava tunnel is one of the Galapagos’ most intriguing natural wonders, offering a blend of mystery, adventure, and history. To reach this fascinating spot, visitors embark on a short 300-meter (984 ft) walk from the famous Post Office Barrel, where letters have been exchanged since the whaling days. As you approach the tunnel, be prepared for a steep descent of approximately 30 meters, dropping straight down into the darkness.

This entrance is not just a simple pathway; it plunges vertically down, inviting explorers into its shadowy depths. The allure of the tunnel has attracted adventurers for generations. In the 1970s, my father, Guillermo Vergara, along with Rolf Wittmer, ventured here equipped with scuba diving gear, driven by tales of hidden treasures left behind by pirates centuries ago. They searched for gold and jewels, but like many before and after, they returned empty-handed—though the thrill of the quest itself was a treasure of its own.

Once inside, the lava tunnel envelops you in complete darkness, so it’s essential to bring a strong flashlight to light the way. The tunnel’s widest section stretches an impressive 80 meters (263 ft) in diameter, creating a vast, shadowed cavern. As you venture deeper, you can feel the air cool and the walls close in around you as you head toward the ocean’s icy, dark waters that lap against the tunnel’s rocky end. Local legend hints that this tunnel may have once been a hideout for pirates, adding an extra layer of mystery to this dark and secluded spot.

Equinoxtours takes guests on this unique journey through the tunnel, and it’s always a highlight of the visit. Many guests enjoy lingering in the darkness, telling spooky stories or recalling scenes from mystery films, embracing the eerie atmosphere of the lava cave. The experience is like stepping into a hidden world, blending the thrill of exploration with the enchantment of Galapagos history.