It seems as if a whole phalanx of volcanoes stand guard of the west coast of Guatemala. As you can see from the final image in our gallery below, nine volcanoes – Volcán San Pedro, Volcán Toliman, Volcán Atitlan, Volcán Pacaya, Volcán Agua and Volcán Fuego – together form a massive volcanic chain along the Pacific coastline.
Volcán Pacaya, a couple hours’ drive from Guatemala City, has been erupting pretty much constantly since 1965! Despite having one of the highest rates of volcanic activity in the world, Pacaya is a popular hiking destination because the going isn’t too strenuous and you’re rewarded with great views at the top. You can join a day trip from Guatemala City for about $20.
The first hour-and-a-half of the hike takes you along an easygoing trail through lush green landscapes. The final hour or so, when you ascend the barren moonscape of the cone, is a little tougher. On the way you stop off at gas vents to toast some marshmallows – the sugar rush certainly helps with the climb!
Pacaya’s eruptions range from minor gaseous emissions to explosions powerful enough to hurl ash and boulders miles into the atmosphere prompting local evacuations. The last major eruption occurred in May 2010.
Pacaya’s activity varies a lot, so unfortunately there’s no guarantee you’ll see lava flows or be able to hike to the crater. Even if you can’t do either, you’ll still be thankful you made the trip. Check out the video below for an idea of what the lava flows are like.
(Images: Nyall & Maryanne, ostakland, PYC1, Hanoi Mark, -NACH-)
