If you plan to climb it, you should know that it is mandatory to climb with a certified local guide. You can hire them at the entrance or ask us for the best ones.
If you are more into volcanoes and what to know a bit more academic and intresting info, we add an adventure guide to the group to be able to give you an overall experience.
From the plateau you can see other 3 volcanoes: Agua, Acatenango and Fuego (active). If the weather permits and the atmosphere is clear you can even see as far as the Pacific Coastline.
Every time we hike, we start with the steepest part, and it is common to hear: "this part is the most difficult". As you pass this slope the road becomes dirt and easier.
The trail changes from time to time as the locals like to reach the lava from the nearest part. There used to be a trail that went through a forest and reached the top. Today some guides like to have a "shortcut" and climb from a trail with less vegetation but same beautiful views.
Since beginning of December, when the skies clear up and the rain ends, the influx of people to pacaya increases. Make sure to take snacks and enough water. Please considerate your local guide and you might want to take a snack to share with them.
When you reach the top you can find David. He cooks pizza with the heat of the volcano. He also has sodas and other type of drinks.
It is easy to reach Pacaya from Guatemala City of from Antigua.
From Antigua: We recommend going out by Ciudad Vieja, pass through the car racing track and go out to the main road to the port. It is a bit longer than going trhough Barcenas but it is more scenic and you pass through the sugar cane fields.
From Guatemala City: Take into account the guatemala city has heavy traffic and even if google maps tells you 45 min it can take you 1.5hr to get there. Be patient!
Tour Timings:
In general terms the overall experience from the base takes 2.5hrs. It all depends of the group pace. It is a 3.5 mile walk (5.5km). Even though the highest point is 2,552m you start at 2100m so it is only a 457m gain.
People always ask me to rate the difficulty of the hike and even though some say it is "beginner" I have seen people strugle. I would say it is a mid in difficulty and please avoid if you have some sort of condition.
When is a good time to go?
There is a "volcano season" which starts in Mid November all the way to February do to clear skies. But people climb Pacaya all year round.
Recommendations
Avoid buying disposable watter bottles. Bring your reusable water bottle and if you bring trash make sure to return it to either Antigua or the City. Waste management at the volcano might not be optimal.
Flashlight: Only for sunrise or sunset. It is always good idea to bring your own instead of sharing.
Backpak: Don´t overload your backpack with things you won´t need. This will make it heavier and make the climb more difficult. Travel Light and try to carry only the essentials.
First Aid: We have a basic first aid kit for our tours. If you are climbing on your own make sure to take basics to clean scrapes and wounds in case someone falls.
Shoes: Wear approrpiate shoes. Please avoid sandals.
Ask us for quote on a private tour: annie@bruceguatemala.com
Comments