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Cerro Chino: A Volcanic Hiking Experience

Hike Cerro Chino for stunning views of Volcán Pacaya, Guatemala's active volcano, and experience a unique volcanic landscape.

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Cerro Chino, located near Volcán Pacaya in Guatemala, offers a rewarding hiking experience with stunning views of the active volcano and surrounding landscapes. The trail is well-marked and accessible to hikers of varying skill levels, making it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.

A brief summary to Cerro Chino

  • 99RV+QV8, GT

Local tips

  • Visit during the early hours or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and capture the best lighting for photography.
  • Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable hiking shoes.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching and safe experience.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee to Volcán Pacaya National Park.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Guatemala City, drive south on CA-9 for approximately 30 km. Upon reaching San Vicente Pacaya, follow the signs for Volcán Pacaya National Park. Continue on this road until you reach the park entrance. The entrance fee is around $3 USD. After entering the park, follow signs towards Sendero Cerro Chino.

  • Public Transport

    Take a 'chicken bus' from Guatemala City or Antigua to San Vicente Pacaya. From San Vicente Pacaya, you can hire a tuk-tuk or colectivo (pickup truck) to reach the entrance of Volcán Pacaya National Park. Negotiate the fare beforehand. From the park entrance, follow signs to Sendero Cerro Chino.

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Discover more about Cerro Chino

Cerro Chino, a peak in the Escuintla Department of Guatemala, stands at an elevation of 2,244 meters (7,362 feet). Situated near the active Volcán Pacaya, Cerro Chino provides a unique vantage point to witness the volcano's majesty and the surrounding natural beauty. The hike to Cerro Chino is considered relatively easy compared to other volcano hikes in Guatemala, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers. The trail meanders through lush landscapes, offering hikers the chance to experience the region's diverse flora and fauna. As hikers ascend, they are treated to panoramic vistas that stretch far beyond the horizon. The experience of seeing the active volcano in its natural habitat is awe-inspiring. While the trail doesn't lead directly to the summit of Volcán Pacaya due to safety concerns, it takes you to the summit of the adjacent Cerro Chino, and you walk around the base of Pacaya Volcano. This allows for an up-close and personal experience with the volcanic landscape, including hardened lava flows and geothermal activity. Some tours even offer the opportunity to toast marshmallows on the hot volcanic rocks. Cerro Chino is not only a destination for adventure but also for geological and photographic exploration. The rugged beauty of the volcanic terrain and the vibrant colors of the sunset offer excellent opportunities for photographers.

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