Hiking Pacaya; 3 things you should consider

The Pacaya volcano is one of the most impressive volcanoes in Guatemala. It is an active volcano that has been erupting ever since 1961 and it is open to tourists. Not only is it possible to hike this volcano, it is also possible to see lava rivers, which makes Pacaya one of the best tourist attractions in Guatemala. During the hike, you get to walk on volcanic rocks, you get to see the lava up close and you get to roast marshmallows on the heat of the rocks. It is definitely an activity that you shouldn’t miss out on in Guatemala.

1. How to get to the volcano?
Pacaya is about an hour and a half drive from Antigua and can be easily reached by car. You can navigate to Pacaya National Park, where you can park your car. If you do not have a car, it is possible to take an uber or go with a local tour company. It is mandatory to climb the volcano with a guide, because of safety reasons. The entrance for the park is 50 quetzales per person, which is around 6 dollars and a guide costs around 25 dollars for the whole group. The tour companies charge around 20 dollars for the tour which includes transportation and a guide. It is therefore a cheaper option if you are travelling alone. Do keep in mind that you still have to pay the entrance fee for the national park.

2. What hike should I do?
There are two hikes that you can do to see the volcano. The first hike will take about 2 hours and will take you to the top of Pacaya. Here you will be able to feel the heat from the volcanic rocks and you will have an amazing view. At some points the terrain can be a bit steep, but overall, it is a hike that everyone can do. 
The other hike is much easier and will take you to see the lava. This hike will mostly be on volcanic rocks and it is important to wear firm shoes. You will have to walk through the private property of ‘Finca Buena Vista’ and therefore pay another 20 quetzales (around 2 dollars). The hike will take about 30 minutes and will take you to the lava rivers, where you get to enjoy the views of the lava, feel the heat through the volcanic rocks and enjoy the view of the other volcanoes. I recommend you to do this hike, as coming so close to lava is a once in a lifetime experience.

3. What time should I go?
The tour companies offer the hike at 9 AM and 2 PM. I recommend you to choose the 2 PM one, because you will have a chance to see the sunset. Don’t forget to ask the tour company if the hike takes you to the top or the lava. They should offer both options. If you have your own car or take the uber and decide to go hike to the top, keep in mind that the national park closes at 6 PM. If you decide to go hike to the lava, I recommend you to go around 5 or 6 PM when the sun is setting. Many people took food to the area and where enjoying the amazing views of the lava running down the volcano.

Both hikes are amazing and once in a lifetime experiences. If you are going to hike the Acatenango volcano, you might think that it's very similar. However, when hiking Acatenango, you do not get to be this close to the lava and you won't be able to walk on the volcanic rocks and roast marshmallows. So, take the opportunity and go do a sunset Pacaya hike to see the lava up close!