Saint Lucia’s terrain is a patchwork of volcanic peaks, hot springs and lush ridges that shape its coastlines and communities. From coastal lookouts to inland trails, the island’s geology is visible at every turn and provides a natural storyline for visitors and residents alike.
There are 4 Volcanoes in Saint Lucia, ranging from Gros Piton to Sulphur Springs. For each entry, you’ll find below the data organized as Location (parish; lat, lon),Type,Status (activity; access), so you can quickly compare where they are, what type they are, and whether they’re active or open to visitors—you’ll find those details below.
Are these volcanoes active and safe to visit?
Activity varies: some sites are dormant peaks best reached on marked trails, while others—like Sulphur Springs—are hydrothermally active and monitored. Safety depends on current activity, trail conditions and local rules; check recent alerts, stick to signage, and follow park or guide instructions before visiting.
Do I need a guide or permit to visit Gros Piton or Sulphur Springs?
Guides are recommended for steep climbs like Gros Piton for safety and local knowledge, and some parks charge entrance or guide fees. Sulphur Springs is usually accessible as a park area with boardwalks, but access rules and hours can change, so verify with local authorities before you go.
Volcanoes in Saint Lucia
| Name | Location (parish; lat, lon) | Type | Status (activity; access) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gros Piton | Soufrière; 13.83, -61.07 | volcanic plug | Dormant; trail and guided climbs permitted, moderate fitness required |
| Petit Piton | Soufrière; 13.83, -61.07 | volcanic plug | Dormant; steep, restricted guided hikes recommended |
| Qualibou Caldera | Soufrière; 13.86, -61.06 | caldera | Historic activity; monitored geothermal area, viewpoints and some restricted zones |
| Sulphur Springs | Soufrière; 13.85, -61.06 | fumarolic field | Active fumaroles; public park with guided access and safety protocols |
Images and Descriptions
Gros Piton
Gros Piton, 797 m, is one of Saint Lucia’s twin volcanic plugs rising dramatically from the coast. A UNESCO-listed landmark, it offers popular guided hikes, panoramic coastal views and clear exposures of the island’s volcanic core.
Petit Piton
Petit Piton, 743 m, is the steeper twin of Gros Piton and a striking volcanic spine. Part of the Pitons UNESCO site, climbs are technical and best made with licensed guides; the peaks are important for geology and seabird habitat.
Qualibou Caldera
Qualibou Caldera (Soufrière) is a collapsed volcanic center about 3–4 km across that shapes southwestern Saint Lucia. It hosts fumaroles and hot springs, has a history of eruptions, and is central to local geothermal activity and monitoring.
Sulphur Springs
Sulphur Springs is an active hydrothermal area with boiling mud pools, steam vents and sulfur gases near Soufrière town. Marketed as a “drive-in” volcanic park, it is visitor-friendly but requires following park safety and avoiding closed or steaming zones.
