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Ríos de Lava, Volcán Pacaya

Hike through solidified lava fields and witness the raw power of Pacaya Volcano, one of Guatemala's most active volcanic landscapes.

Explore the solidified lava flows of Pacaya Volcano, one of Guatemala's most active volcanoes. Hike through unique volcanic landscapes and witness the aftermath of past eruptions, with opportunities to roast marshmallows over geothermal vents. A guided tour is essential for a safe and informative experience.

A brief summary to Ríos de Lava, Volcán Pacaya

  • 99RX+2P, Bejucal, GT

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the terrain is rocky and uneven.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike to the top.
  • Hire a local guide for a safer and more informative experience.
  • Check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Consider renting a horse if you prefer a less strenuous hike.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Pacaya National Park entrance, the hike to the Ríos de Lava area involves traversing varied terrain, including dirt trails and solidified lava fields. The hike is moderately challenging and takes approximately 1-2 hours to reach the lava fields. It's crucial to follow the marked trails and heed your guide's instructions due to uneven surfaces and potential hazards. Note that a guide is mandatory. The entrance fee to Pacaya National Park is 100 GTQ (approximately $13 USD) per person. This fee is typically paid at the park entrance.

  • Public Transport

    From Antigua, take a shuttle or bus to the town of San Vicente Pacaya, which is the closest access point to the volcano. Shuttles can be booked through local tour operators or hostels. From San Vicente Pacaya, you'll need to hire a local guide to take you to the Pacaya National Park entrance and then to the Ríos de Lava area. The cost of a shuttle from Antigua to Pacaya is around 150 GTQ to 250 GTQ ($20-$35 USD). Hiring a guide can range from 150 GTQ to 300 GTQ ($20-$40 USD), depending on the group size and negotiation.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    A taxi or ride-share from Antigua to the Pacaya National Park entrance is possible but can be relatively expensive. Negotiate the fare beforehand. From the park entrance, you'll still need to hire a local guide to hike to the Ríos de Lava area. The estimated cost for a taxi or ride-share from Antigua to Pacaya is 400 GTQ to 600 GTQ ($50-$75 USD). Remember to factor in the park entrance fee (100 GTQ) and guide fee (150-300 GTQ).

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Discover more about Ríos de Lava, Volcán Pacaya

Ríos de Lava at Volcán Pacaya offers a striking glimpse into Guatemala's volcanic activity. Pacaya, a complex volcano within Pacaya National Park, stands at 2,552 meters (8,373 ft) and is known for its continuous plume of smoke and vast lava fields. The hike to the lava fields typically takes 1 to 2 hours from the trailhead, traversing farmland and cloud forest. While the last major eruption with significant lava flow occurred in 2021, the landscape remains marked by cooled lava chambers and the broken peak from that event. Although the active lava rivers may no longer be present, the views of the dried-out riverbeds snaking down from the crater are still impressive. Visitors can explore geothermal hot spots and even roast marshmallows on the warm volcanic rocks. The panoramic views include neighboring volcanoes like Agua, Acatenango, and Fuego. The hike is considered moderate, suitable for families, and horses can be rented for assistance. However, it's important to wear appropriate footwear due to the jagged and uneven terrain. Note that it is essential to visit Volcán Pacaya with a licensed guide for safety reasons, as they are knowledgeable about the current volcanic activity and can navigate the terrain safely.

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