Volcano Climbing

Tour Duration: 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Guatemala has 38 volcanoes. Five of them are active and the Pacaya volcano is one of them.
While visiting this volcano you can have the unique experience of standing three or four meters
from a river of lava. This is a once in a lifetime adventure that you will never forget. At 2,522
meters or 8,373 feet above sea level, this amazing volcano offers magnificent views with great
natural scenery. Temperatures average 15-20 celsius (59 to 68 degrees) with 80% humidity.
At the summit and during the trekking, you will have ideal scenic photographic opportunities.
From the visitor center to the summit is a 1.2 kilometers or ¾ mile hike. During the ascent to
the summit, we make three stops to rest and catch our breath. At the first stop is the view to
"Laguna de Calderas" (boiler Lagoon). At the second stop is a great view to the Guatemala
City and three other magnificent volcanoes - the Water, the Fire and the Acatenango
volcanoes. While trekking, you will pass thru trails lined with coffee, corn and black beans
plants. Cedars, bamboo, pines and other tropical vegetation also line the trails. The assent
from the visitor center to the plateau takes approximately 1 ½ hours to two hours. Once at the
summit, 1 additional hour is taken to appreciate the outstanding volcanic activity. Afterwards,
the decent being all downhill, is less physically demanding and takes less time. The visitor
center is located in a little town known as San Francisco. Our vehicle remains there until our
group returns from the climb. The visitor's center has restrooms and a small souvenir shop.
(credit cards are not accepted, only US and local currency). There are also horses and mules
for rent just in case you decide to take the easy way to the summit. This is a physically
demanding hike and the mules and horses afford you an alternative way to reach the summit.