Escuintla Department Nature & adventure

After a hotel pickup, leave Antigua to the base of the Pacaya volcano. Sit back and relax on a bus for the 1-hour trip. Upon arrival, begin the climb with a local guide, walking through a large forested area. Travel along paths of the volcanic area, appreciating views of the other volcanoes in addition to the regional vegetation along the way. When you reach the plateau, see the main crater of the volcano from a distance. Observe the lava depending on the activity of the volcano and some steam baths created by the heat of the Pacaya Volcano. After soaking in spectacular views of the Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes at the summit of Pacaya, start the descent to the base, before taking the bus back to Antigua.

Walk for 2 hours to the summit of Pacaya Volcano and enjoy stunning views. Leave from Antigua for a 1-hour bus journey to the volcano's base before immediately starting your 2-hour trek with your local guide. Hike through wonderful pine forests up to the trickier volcanic ash section and finally to the sulfur smoking cone. On occasion, you can even see small eruptions and lava flowing, depending on the activity of the volcano. From the summit, you can enjoy great views of the nearby volcanoes, Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango, the pacific lowlands, and all the way to El Salvador. To ensure your safety you won’t be able to visit the crater, but you will get an amazing view of red-hot lava flowing and steam baths created by the heat of Pacaya. Take a break and relax here as you take in more scenic views before hiking back to the base of the volcano, from where you will transfer back to your accommodation. 

Ride a quad bike and feel the adrenaline rush as you drive through Pacaya's. Meet your guide at the meeting point in Antigua for an action-packed adventure away from the city's crowds and chaos. So jump in our car and enjoy the ride as you head to San Vicente Pacaya. Watch as your guide gives you a quick safety induction before you hop on the ATV. First, you will jump on the ATV at San Vicente Pacaya, where you will explore the areas near and around the Pacaya Volcano, surrounded by lush forests and rocks.  Feel the endorphins rush through your body as you enjoy an exhilarating quad bike ride through various trails and to the local village located at the volcano's base. Dive through different off-road trails, and ride through volcanic sand and lava fields inside a private plantation. Ride to the Calderas Lagoon and admire the beautiful turquoise waters. Enjoy eating a tasty sandwich as you take in the views. Make sure you take your camera as you want to take many photos.  Finally, you will enjoy a convenient lift back to Antigua when your tour ends. End your adventure on a high as you go home with memories that last forever. 

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with our exclusive tour to the majestic Pacaya Volcano! From the comfort of your hotel in the charming town of Antigua Guatemala, we'll whisk you away on a scenic one-hour drive directly to the base of Pacaya, where your journey into the heart of volcanic beauty begins. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by friendly locals offering helpful services to enhance your climb, including handcrafted wooden trekking poles, snacks, and expert guides who know every hidden gem along the trail. A modest entrance fee of Q100 per person opens the gate to this spectacular natural wonder. As we embark on the trail, you might find it wet underfoot, adding a thrilling challenge to your hike. Although the path is not overly difficult, the first 15 minutes will warm you up and get your heart pumping! Don't worry, though—our knowledgeable guide will ensure there are plenty of stops to catch your breath. These pauses are not only restful but also perfect moments to soak in the stunning vistas that unfold around you. The ascent to the volcano's summit takes approximately two hours, but every step is filled with breathtaking landscapes and the anticipation of reaching one of nature's most incredible displays. At the peak, the environment transforms dramatically into a vast field of petrified lava—a stark and awe-inspiring sight. Here, an extraordinary experience awaits: roasting marshmallows over the heat of an active volcano! How often does life offer you the chance to enjoy such a unique treat in the midst of volcanic wonder? Take your time to enjoy the surroundings, snap those perfect shots (make sure to gather some photo inspiration from social media to capture the awe-inspiring scenery in creative ways), and revel in the beauty of nature's power. After savoring the peak experience, we'll begin our descent, winding back down the volcano with the setting sun illuminating our path. The descent is smooth and filled with reflective moments as you look back at the summit you've conquered. Our comfortable bus will be waiting to take you back to Antigua, dropping you off right at your hotel or meeting point, with your heart full and spirits high. Join us for this adventure where every step tells a story, and bring home memories that will last a lifetime. Can't wait to see you there!

Come and see the Pacaya Volcano: the most active volcano in Guatemala at 2,500 meters (more than 8,000 feet). Witness spectacular views of the lagoon of Calderas and three other volcanoes: Agua, Fuego and Acatenango. The surrounding area is an experience unto itself, composed in large part of humid forest and rocks. After a walk through volcanic sand paths, with great views of the volcanoes and unique vegetation, you´ll arrive at the plateau where you can see the main crater of the volcano. Today, you can't visit the crater of the volcano for security reasons, but you will see the lava (if active) and some steam baths created by the heat of the Pacaya Volcano. At the volcano, you'll have the opportunity to get an up-close look at the volcano. After a thrilling day of exploration and dramatic views, you will arrive back at your hotel.

Volcano Pacaya (8370ft/2552m) may not be Guatemala’s highest peak, however its slopes and unique landscapes are certainly of some of the most impressive volcanic landscapes in all of Central America. Set in its own National Park, Pacaya is a storybook volcano with a continuous plume of smoke drifting from its summit and a massive dried lava field forming the valley at the base of its caldera. The group meets in Antigua at 08:00 (for a morning hike) or 14:00 (for a sunset hike) – where drinking water, bathroom facilities, and retail outdoor equipment are available. Your drive to the trailhead is just over 1 hour in private transport from Antigua to the Park Office. As the group moves up the myriad of trails on the mountain, Guatemala’s impressive vistas open up before you. As you reach the base of the caldera, your guide will direct the group through the rugged dried lava fields, recently reformed by a massive eruption in 2010. No matter what conditions you encounter on the mountain, the group will have the opportunity to traverse unique volcanic-rock landscapes as you ascend towards the peak. Here the group will stop for a freshly prepared picnic to enjoy along with views of nearby volcanoes Agua, Fuego and Acatenango. There will be plenty of opportunity to explore geothermal hot-spots on the cooled lava formations – which are always available to help roast marshmallows! The hike down brings across the remaining dried lava fields before you begin your descent through Pacaya’s lush and lesser known forests and farmland. After your hike down to the trailhead, the group returns to Antigua by private transport to arrive in town at roughly 16:00 (day hike) or 20:30 (sunset hike).

Join us for a thrilling adventure to Pacaya Volcano, where you'll experience more than just a hike—you'll get to make and cook your own Pizza using coal and heat of volcanic rocks! Your journey begins with a comfortable private transfer from Antigua, guided by a knowledgeable local guide fluent in English. As you ascend the rugged trails, the breathtaking views of Guatemala unfold. Upon reaching the summit, prepare your special pizza and watch as it cooks over, creating a memorable meal you can enjoy in the heart of an active volcano. Where else in the world will you eat pizza cooked in the rocks of an active Volcano?

Embarking on the Pacaya volcano hike offers an unforgettable adventure filled with dramatic landscapes and natural wonders. The journey begins at the trailhead in the village of San Vicente Pacaya, where hikers meet friendly local guides. Here, you can rent walking sticks or hire a horse for assistance, setting the stage for the adventure ahead. As the ascent commences, the path winds through lush pine forests, providing a shady and serene atmosphere. The sounds of birds and rustling leaves accompany you as you climb. Gradually, the trail becomes steeper, offering glimpses of the surrounding valleys and distant peaks. Emerging from the forest, the landscape transforms into a stark, volcanic terrain. Black lava rocks and ash fields stretch out before you, creating an otherworldly setting. Here, the first close-up views of Pacaya's active cone come into sight, often with plumes of smoke rising from its summit. The trail continues upward, leading to a lava viewing area. Depending on the volcano's activity, you might witness flowing lava rivers or glowing red rocks. This awe-inspiring sight is especially magical during evening hikes. The heat emanating from the lava fields is palpable, adding to the raw, elemental experience. Along the way, guides often find spots where the ground is warm enough to roast marshmallows. This popular and unique activity highlights the volcano's geothermal energy. Roasting marshmallows over volcanic heat is both a fun break and a reminder of nature's power. The final ascent brings you to a viewpoint with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, including neighboring volcanoes like Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. On clear days, the Pacific Ocean glimmers on the horizon, and the setting sun casts a golden glow over the rugged terrain. After soaking in the views and capturing photos, you begin the descent, retracing your steps through the lava fields and forests. The hike back provides an opportunity to reflect on the diverse ecosystems and the dramatic contrasts experienced during the journey. Overall, the Pacaya volcano hike is a blend of physical challenge, stunning scenery, and unique geological features. This immersive encounter with one of Guatemala's most active and accessible volcanoes leaves a lasting impression.

Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pick-up, where our friendly team will greet you. From there, we'll whisk you away on a scenic drive, just 1.5 hours to the captivating Pacaya Volcano. As you arrive at the volcano's base, anticipation fills the air. The hike begins, and you'll find yourself surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Guatemala. The ascent is smooth and gradual, making it accessible for hikers of all levels. As you progress, the landscape transforms, revealing panoramic vistas. Reaching the summit is a moment of triumph. Amidst this awe-inspiring backdrop, we'll indulge in a box lunch. Eventually, it's time to begin the descent, which takes just an hour. Finally, we'll ensure a comfortable hotel drop-off.

Embark on a thrilling day tour to the Pacaya Volcano from Antigua Guatemala. This private excursion ensures a personalized experience with round-trip transportation, allowing you to save your energy for the hike. Your personal guide will provide fascinating insights about the volcano, making your journey more enriching than going solo. Start your adventure with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Antigua Guatemala. Relax in a comfortable private vehicle as you travel to the base of the Pacaya Volcano. Upon arrival, begin your hike at a pace that suits you, guided by an expert who will share intriguing facts and stories about the volcano's history and geology. As you ascend, take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and feel the heat from the volcanic activity beneath your feet. Reaching the summit, marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views and the unique volcanic formations. Enjoy a well-deserved break with complimentary water and your choice of a soft drink or beer. Capture memorable photos and soak in the natural beauty before beginning your descent. The tour concludes with a return trip to Antigua Guatemala, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or a central location, perfect for continuing your exploration of the city.