Why I delved in extensive research before my hike to the most active volcano, the Pacaya volcano in Guatemala, North America? The reason was significant. The 8000 ft plus hike, with major chunk of hike comprising the spiky formations of cooled lava. Because eruptions are very frequent and sudden in Pacaya volcano. The tip of volcano bubbles with molten lava all the time.
To grasp the real hiking situation I went through different hikers’ reviews on Pacaya volcano. Some hikers termed Pacaya hike as strenuous whereas others tagged it as moderate hike. I analyzed all available info and opted for afternoon tour of seven hours from Antigua. Secured my feet in good hiking shoes as hiking trail runs deep in solid rocky formations. That is the most adventurous side of Pacaya hike. Though sometimes turns in life threatening situation too. I took along enough water to keep me hydrated and snacks as energy booster which I may need during hike or after hike. And one waterproof jacket as my protection from windy or rainy weather I may encounter during hike. Though I do not use stick for moderate ascends but I took one stick for slippery descend on ash and gravel.
I tied up with local Spanish speaking guide who conversed in English as well. Enjoyed panorama immensely on the way up. But as I ascended clouds enveloped whole area blocking the Pacaya landscape. I hoped that clouds will part soon. And it happened so, really. Incredible vistas emerged. Then the glorious appearance of Pacaya volcano. Superb views from top. Quickly I captured all in my camera before weather turned nasty again as my guide had cautioned so.
After top view I hiked amid solid lava rocks, volcanic ash, and sulphur gas to endure, all was thrill. It was such a happy coincidence that weather remained favorable till I was hiking deep in volcano. I enjoyed to the fullest. And the moment I started descending back suddenly it began to pour heavily. Quickly I put on my rain jacket. Bad weather did not bother me much as I had already fulfilled my desire of being up close Pacaya volcano and get the real feel. One thing I noticed that greenery was in abundance in surrounding areas of active volcano. Such a strange phenomenon of nature.
Lastly the scene of customary roasting of marshmallows by hikers in Pacaya volcano. A great fun to roast and relish.
Just be sure to be in good health when hiking deep in active volcano.
Looks like an amazing trip! I heard some really scary stories about people climbing Pacaya in the 1990’s when I was there. One group got caught in an eruption and was abandoned by their guides! Luckily they made it out OK though! Good stories!
True Dan. That is active volcano and few months back only had again sudden eruption.
I like how the way you write, makes me feel like I also hiked this amazing place. keep it up!
Thanks Joan.
Hiking up an active volacno…surely a lifetime experience ..good that you were prepared with were prepared with your stuff… this was on my list but this made me crave even more now….
Hiking deep in active volcano, thrilling experience.
I always love to read your blog. It’s my dream to visit an active volcano. I hope you have enjoyed a lot.
Thank you. Yes I enjoyed lot.
That’s a thrilling experience;!! And roasting marshmallows sounds all the more fun
Truly so.
It looks like a real travel dream and adventure! I love hiking but never did it on an active volcano!
Unique experience indeed.
Whoa! You really are into extreme adventures. Just thinking about going near a volcano scares me. But on the other hand, you get to see things that we don’t. Having roasted marshmallows on the volcano area seem pretty cool.
Thank you dear friend.
OMG the view is stunning.. i always want to hike in a Volacano..during my travel to Mayon Volcano in Legaspi Albay, i really wanted to try but it takes days and i only have few days vacation!
I am sure you will do volcanic hike sometime in future.
Nice poste no volacano her in my country so i dont see any volacano in my life , i hope visit a volacano in a day
Your hope should come true. Thanks.
this sounds absolutely amazing! what an awesome trip 🙂 I’d love to do this.
You must plan to do Danielle.
I give you all the props for hiking in an active volcano!The Pacaya volcano hike looked like it was a great adventure!
Thanks Ashlee. Yes it had been great adventure.
What an incredible hike. I’d love to visit an active volcano, I find them such a fascinating piece of nature.
Absolutely fascinating phenomenon of nature.
I imagine the thrill of being face to face with the mighty Vulcan God … wow
Incredible feel.
That marshmallow at the end was so cute. But, omg, hiking in an active volcano is now on my travel list for sure! Sounds like an awesome and memorable experience.
Truly memorable experience.
I have never hiked to a volcano. And this looks so super thrilling.
Absolutely so Monidipa.
I enjoyed your beautiful pictures. I have never tried a Volcano hike, it certainly is on my list
You will be thrilled Alexandra.
What an incredible experience! Though honestly, I would be scared to trek on an active volcano.
If you are determined you can certainly do.
This looks amazing!!! I love it!
Thanks.
wow that is so exciting! most people never get the chance to check out a volcano so close!
You are right Jasmine.
Wow, you are braver than me. Although, I have the ultimate excuse. I am allergic to sulphur. Cool adventure.
Thanks Rhonda.
What an exciting experience! I, too, will make sure to study the options if hiking there. It’s so important. And, hey, how cool is that roasting marshmallows on the volcano!
You will be thrilled Umiko.
Wow, what an amazing adventure! I would love to do this one day as well! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you.
You always get the best travels! You are a great inspiration to me. Hiking a volcano! yes please!
Thank you so much.
Wow! Amazing! Such a brave and adventurous individual you are. That is absolutely a thrilling experience!I always fear volcano because of its lava and they said it’s dangerous. However, your story makes me want to visit one of the active volcanoes in the Philippines. And I think roasting of marshmallows will be fun 🙂
Thank you. You must experience such hike.
I am always impressed with your determination in your adventure. More power on your blogs and travel.
Thank you so much Chelle.
I love travelling around & enjoy my reading here. All your captures shared here so lovely, wishing am travelling here soon. cheers, siennylovesdrawing
Thank you.
Thanks for sharing this experience to hike in this active volcano of Guatemala without much hassles.
Thank you for being part of this experience.
What a cool adventure! I would love to do a hike like this someday, it has to be an experience!
You must do so Emily.
This looks so amazing I’ve never been anywhere like that! I really enjoyed this article.
Thanks Jess.
What a great hiking adventure! I loved your description, was thrilling! It is usual to see greenery around active volcanos because cold lava makes the soil much more fertile!!
You described well. Thanks Nati.