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.