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Volcán Pacaya National Park

Hike an active volcano in Guatemala! Explore lava fields, roast marshmallows, and witness breathtaking views at Volcán Pacaya National Park.

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Hike Guatemala's active Pacaya volcano, traverse lava fields, and roast marshmallows over geothermal vents. A popular and accessible adventure offering stunning views and a unique volcanic experience.

A brief summary to Centro de visitantes, Volcan Pacaya

  • Monday 6 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-7 pm
  • Friday 6 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the terrain is rocky and uneven.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof gear, as the weather can change quickly.
  • Hire a local guide for a safer and more informative experience.
  • Bring cash for the park entrance fee and optional walking stick or horseback ride.
  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for more stable weather conditions.
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Getting There

  • Shuttle

    Most travelers start from Antigua. Shuttles are readily available from Antigua to Pacaya Volcano National Park, with round trip costing around $20. The journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. These shuttles typically drop you off near the park's visitor center. Park entrance fee is approximately Q100 (USD $14), payable in cash. A local guide is mandatory for hiking the volcano and costs around Q200 (USD $25). Optional walking stick rental is available for Q10 (USD $1.50). Horseback riding to the top is also offered, costing around Q300 (USD $40).

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Discover more about Centro de visitantes, Volcan Pacaya

Volcán Pacaya National Park offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the raw power and beauty of an active volcano. Pacaya, a complex basaltic stratovolcano, has been erupting for at least 23,000 years. Rising to 2,552 meters (8,373 ft), it's a part of the Central American Volcanic Arc. After a long dormant period, Pacaya sprung back to life in 1961 and has been frequently erupting since. The park provides a moderately challenging hike through volcanic landscapes. As you ascend, you'll traverse unique volcanic rock, explore lava flows, and encounter geothermal hot spots. Many visitors enjoy roasting marshmallows using the volcano's heat. The summit offers panoramic views of nearby volcanoes like Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango, as well as the Pacific coast. Pacaya's activity varies between Strombolian eruptions, which throw incandescent bombs into the air, and Plinian eruptions that can shower the surrounding areas with ash. The most recent significant eruption occurred in 2010, blanketing Guatemala City with ash. Despite its eruptions, Pacaya remains a popular tourist destination, offering a thrilling and immersive geological experience.

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