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Sendero Cerro Chino: Hiking Pacaya Volcano's Iconic Cone

Hike Cerro Chino on Pacaya Volcano: Witness Guatemala's volcanic landscapes, roast marshmallows on geothermal vents, and enjoy panoramic views.

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Hike Cerro Chino, a prominent cone on Pacaya Volcano, Guatemala's active marvel. This moderately challenging trail offers stunning views of lava fields and surrounding landscapes, with opportunities to roast marshmallows on geothermal vents.

A brief summary to Sendero cerro chino volcan pacaya gt

  • C92P+55V concepcion el cedro, San Vicente Pacaya, GT
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots for navigating the varied and sometimes rocky terrain.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and layers, as the weather can change quickly at higher elevations.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for an enriched experience and to support the community.
  • Bring cash for the park entrance fee (Q100), snacks, and optional walking stick rental.
  • Pace yourself and stay hydrated, as the altitude can make the hike more strenuous.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Pacaya National Park entrance near San Francisco de Sales, follow the well-marked trail towards Cerro Chino. The path ascends gradually through a mix of forested and open areas. The hike to Cerro Chino typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and the specific route. Walking sticks are available for rent near the entrance for around Q10. Horses can also be hired for a ride up the trail for around Q300.

  • Public Transport

    From Guatemala City, take a bus to San Vicente Pacaya (approx. Q15-Q25, 2-3 hours). From San Vicente Pacaya, take a microbus or taxi to the Pacaya National Park entrance near San Francisco de Sales (approx. Q5-Q10, 30 minutes). From Antigua, shuttle services are available directly to the park entrance (approx. Q75-Q150 round trip).

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From San Vicente Pacaya, a taxi or ride-share to the Pacaya National Park entrance will cost approximately Q50-Q75 and take around 30 minutes. Negotiate the fare beforehand. Limited availability may affect pricing.

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Discover more about Sendero cerro chino volcan pacaya gt

Sendero Cerro Chino offers a unique hiking experience on the slopes of Pacaya Volcano, one of Guatemala's most active and accessible volcanoes. Cerro Chino itself is an inactive cone within the Pacaya complex, providing a distinct trail with stunning panoramic views. The hike typically takes you around the base of Pacaya, showcasing the dramatic landscapes shaped by past eruptions. The trail is considered moderately challenging, suitable for reasonably fit individuals. The ascent involves traversing varied terrain, including forested areas, rocky paths, and solidified lava fields. The altitude, reaching over 2,200 meters (7,300 feet), can add to the difficulty for some. Witness the raw power of nature as you explore the volcanic terrain. Depending on current activity, you might encounter geothermal hotspots where you can roast marshmallows. The contrasting colors of the landscape, with black lava rocks against the green vegetation, create a striking visual experience. The panoramic views from Cerro Chino encompass the Pacaya crater, surrounding volcanoes like Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango, and the vast Guatemalan highlands.

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