Volcan Pacaya

by Kelli of i-ndah.tumblr.com on April 16, 2012

If you happen to find yourself in Guatemala, more specifically around Guatemala City or Antigua (it can be seen from rooftops in Antigua), I high recommend hiking Volcan Pacaya. It's last eruption was in May of 2010, seeing as though it is still quite active. I was able to do a hike up with a group and a tour guide for only $5, which included transportation there and a guide + security guard. The tour I went through is in Antigua and you can either go on a sunrise or sunset tour (sunrise you leave at 6am and are back by 12:30, sunset you go at 2pm and return by 8:30). When I went, it rained quite hard and there was a lot of wind and even hail, but it was very worth it. I'd recommend typical hiking gear for this one, with waterproof equipment or bags in order to keep things dry if need be. Once at the top, it is amazing, the tour guides don't really restrict you from doing anything, they're mainly there to get you to the top and back down (they would probably talk more if you can speak fluent spanish). Since it is an active volcano, you can literally step over lava/get as close as you want. Obviously I'd recommend to not touch it. **Also, make sure to bring a few bucks because at the base of the volcano, before the hike, there are multiple village kids that bombard you to buy walking sticks (actually of good quality) and rain ponchos--if you are able to spare a few dollars this can really help them out.