The Quill (volcano) Crater
Stratovolcano with prominent crater on Sint Eustatius
The central stratovolcano on Sint Eustatius, attracting hikers to rainforest trails and the crater rim; the island's clear water also makes it a base for diving and coastal excursions.
The Quill (volcano) at a Glance#
Address: The Quill (Mount Quill), Sint Eustatius (Quill/Oranjestad area)
About The Quill (volcano)#
The Quill is a dormant stratovolcano that forms the dominant highland on the island of Sint Eustatius in the Caribbean Netherlands. Its summit rises to roughly 601 metres and contains a forested crater about 1 kilometre in diameter.
The crater interior supports mature secondary forest and a range of native and endemic plants; the rim provides panoramic views over the island and surrounding sea. The site is visited mainly on foot via marked trails that lead to viewpoints on the rim and into the crater.
The volcano occupies the southeastern sector of Sint Eustatius and sits above the main settlement of Oranjestad, which lies at the volcano’s base.
- Elevation and crater size: Summit elevation is about 601 metres and the volcanic crater is approximately 1 kilometre in diameter.
- Island prominence and nearby town: Rises on the southeast side of Sint Eustatius and dominates the island’s landscape, with Oranjestad at the volcano’s foot.
What to See#
- Crater: A forested inner crater roughly 1 kilometre across that holds a distinct microclimate and native plant communities within its steep-walled rim.
- Hiking trails: Marked hiking trails that lead from the island roads to the rim and crater floor, providing the standard visitor approach and viewpoints over Oranjestad and the Caribbean.
How to Get to The Quill (volcano)#
The Quill is on Sint Eustatius; from Oranjestad the trailhead is a short drive (15-20 minutes). Local taxis or rental vehicles provide the most direct access; guided hikes are recommended because trails can be steep and routefinding is required.
Tips for Visiting The Quill (volcano)#
- Hire a local certified guide or join a park service hike - the Quill's caldera rim trail can be steep and the weather changes quickly.
- Bring sun protection and at least 2 liters of water; there are no services on the trail.
- Respect the island's protected status - stick to paths in the Quill-Prosper National Park to avoid fragile vegetation.
Best Time to Visit The Quill (volcano)#
Dry season (Dec-Apr) is preferable for hiking and clearer vistas; pack for tropical sun year-round.
Weather & Climate near The Quill (volcano)#
The Quill (volcano)'s climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 20°C to 29°C. Abundant rainfall (1275 mm/year), wettest in September.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 20° - 26° | 23° | 80 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 20° - 26° | 23° | 52 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 20° - 27° | 23° | 56 mm | - | - | 5.1 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 21° - 27° | 24° | 82 mm | - | - | 4.9 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 22° - 28° | 25° | 114 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 23° - 28° | 25° | 101 mm | - | - | 5.3 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 23° - 29° | 26° | 107 mm | - | - | 5.7 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 23° - 29° | 26° | 148 mm | - | - | 5.3 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 23° - 29° | 26° | 157 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 22° - 29° | 25° | 148 mm | - | - | 4.1 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 21° - 28° | 25° | 145 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 21° - 27° | 24° | 85 mm | - | - | 5.0 m/s | - | - |