Pacaya Volcano Hike and Tour from Antigua Guatemala
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Climb Pacaya Volcano easily with this half-day tour departing from Antigua. Take advantage of round-trip transportation to the trailhead, and a local guide who joins the group to explore one of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala. Get ready for tough terrain and a moderately challenging trek with a local guide that will share important facts about the volcano. Transportation that is pre-arranged simplifies traveling to and from the volcano
Available options
Pacaya Volcano Hike and Tour from Antigua Guatemala
Private : Private tour. It includes: Round trip transportation from Antigua, park entrance fee, and local tour guide (obligatory).<br/>Duration: 6 hours: The tour will take 6 hours in total to be completed from the starting in Antigua until we come back to the same point.<br/>Car or Van: It will depend on the goup size.<br/>Pickup included
Pacaya Volcano Hike by horse
If you want to do Pacaya volcano tour, but you want to do it by horse, this is a good option for you.<br/>Private : It includes: Round trip transport from Antigua, park entrance fee, and local tour guide required by park, and horseback ride.<br/>Duration: 6 hours: The tour will take 6 hours in total to be completed from the starting in Antigua until we come back to the same point.<br/>Car or Van: It will depend on the group size.<br/>Pickup included
Pacaya Hike by Horse and Pizza
Private: It includes: Round trip transport from Antigua, park entrance fee, local tour guide, horseback ride and Pizza Pacaya.<br/>Duration: 6 hours: The tour will take 6 hours in total to be completed from the starting in Antigua until we come back to the same point.<br/>Pizza Pacaya: Pizza cooked at the top of Pacaya volcano by David, made with the heat of a volcano, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. <br/>Car or Van: It depends on the group size.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pacaya National Park entrance fee
Local guide (not fully fluent in English) rquired by park authorities
Limited to one bottle per person
Roundtrip transfer from Antigua
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start your hiking adventure with a pickup right from your Antigua hotel, and share a ride with your small group to the meeting location with the local guide in Pacaya Volcano National Park, which is an hour and fifteen minutes drive. Take a couple of minutes to use the restroom and stretch your legs at the park entrance to get ready, then set off on foot or by horseback (extra fee) with your local guide. Take the picturesque path along the mountain slopes and pause to appreciate the scenery before arriving at the elevated plateau that overlooks the volcanic crater. Visit the lava store for buying some gifts, take some time exploring the plateau, taking pictures, eating pizza (extra charge) and roasting marshmallows over the heat vents scattered across the lava field before starting the journey down to the park entrance for your ride back to Antigua
What's not included
Tiping
WiFi on board
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Located at the square corner of 5a avenida and 4a calle.
About Antigua
Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and vibrant culture. Nestled in the Central Highlands of Guatemala, it offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and colonial charm.
Top Attractions
Arco de Santa Catalina
This iconic archway is a symbol of Antigua. Built in the 17th century, it was originally part of a convent and was used by nuns to cross the street without being seen. Today, it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
Historical/Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Cerro de la Cruz
A short hike up this hill rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes. The cross at the top is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset.
Nature/Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Volcán Pacaya
One of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala, Pacaya offers exciting hiking and the opportunity to see lava flows up close. Guided tours typically include a visit to a local farm for a traditional meal.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Moderate to expensive, depending on the tour
Museo de Arte Precolombino y Vidrio Moderno
Housed in the beautiful Casa Popenoe, this museum showcases a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and contemporary glass art. The museum's courtyard and gardens are also worth exploring.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate
Café Sky
A popular café and cultural center, Café Sky offers a variety of coffee drinks, live music, and art exhibitions. It's a great place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pepián
A rich and flavorful stew made with meat (usually chicken or pork), vegetables, and a complex blend of spices. It's often considered the national dish of Guatemala.
Main dish
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Tamales
Steamed corn dough filled with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or cheese, wrapped in banana leaves. Guatemalan tamales are unique and delicious.
Snack/Street food
Contains meat, vegetarian options available
Rellenitos de Plátano
Sweet fried dough made from ripe plantains, filled with sweetened black beans. A popular dessert or snack in Guatemala.
Dessert
Vegetarian, vegan options available
Atol de Elote
A sweet and creamy drink made from fresh corn, milk, and sugar. It's a popular breakfast or snack, often enjoyed with tamales.
Drink/Dessert
Vegetarian, vegan options available
Popular Activities
Volcano hiking (Pacaya, Acatenango, Fuego)
Mountain biking
Zip-lining and canopy tours
Coffee tasting at local cafes
Spa and wellness treatments
Strolling through the historic center and parks
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
December to April (Dry season)
This is the most popular time to visit Antigua due to the dry weather and pleasant temperatures. It's ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and nearby volcanoes.
15-26°C
59-79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
Time Zone
CST (UTC -6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Antigua is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
- • Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- La Aurora International Airport • 45 km (28 miles)
By bus
Terminal de Occidente (San Cristóbal Totonicapán)
Getting around
Public transport
Chicken buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are colorful, shared minibuses that follow specific routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Histórico
Jardín del Paseo
Barrio de la Mercado
Day trips
Lake Atitlán
90 km (56 miles) • Full day
Lake Atitlán is a stunning highland lake surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages. It's known for its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.
Chichicastenango Market
80 km (50 miles) • Half day to full day
One of the largest and most colorful markets in Central America, Chichicastenango offers a vibrant mix of traditional crafts, textiles, and local produce. It's a great place to experience the local culture and find unique souvenirs.
Volcán Acatenango
40 km (25 miles) • Overnight
One of the highest volcanoes in Central America, Acatenango offers challenging hikes and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The summit offers panoramic views of nearby volcanoes, including the active Fuego.
Festivals
Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary each year)
Feria de la Asunción • August 15
Fiestas Patrias • September 15-16
Pro tips
- Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Visit the local markets for authentic souvenirs and a glimpse into daily life
- Try local coffee and chocolate, which are some of the best in the world
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and charming street scenes
- Be prepared for altitude sickness, as Antigua is located at a high elevation
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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