Drive-in Volcano

La Soufrière Sulphur Springs, St Lucia

A sign near Soufrière bills the sulphur springs as “the world’s only drive-in volcano” marking it as perhaps the most accessible sulphur fields in the Caribbean. The Sulphur Springs are made up of approximately 24 bubbling cauldrons where a portion of the volcanic rim collapsed and opened fissures in the crust. These fissures allow steam to escape through several cauldrons, providing the visitor with a unique glimpse into natural geology. Well-trained guides explain the geological history of the area as they lead you on a hike to the viewing platforms. Along the way, you will cross over a thermal stream, where locals often take a dip in order to benefit from the water’s healing powers. As you enter the area, one of the first things you notice is the strong smell of sulphur. These sulphuric emissions, which smell like rotten eggs, have killed off much of the vegetation. This sparse, bubbling landscape is tinged green, yellow, and purple—lending the otherwise barren moonscape a dash of color.