Pacaya Volcano Hike Difficulty: Complete Guide For 2023

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Researching the Pacaya volcano hike difficulty in Guatemala? Before visiting Antigua, I was unsure whether or not the Pacaya hike (aka: Volcan de Pacaya) would be worth it. But after facing my height fears and stepping out of my comfort zone, I live to tell the tale of our incredible Pacaya volcano hike!

Known as the ‘easier’ volcano hike in Antigua, Pacaya can be done as a half-day trip, either at sunrise or sunset. It can also be experienced as part of an overnight camping trip.

But just how difficult is the Pacaya hike? Well, it’s not as challenging as Acatenango, but it’s still an active volcano that has some pretty steep inclines! In fact, Pacaya is a crazy 8,373 feet above sea level – so don’t expect a walk in the park!

But being this close to an active volcano is enough to make an incredible core memory, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget. We were close enough to smell the burning from the volcano, and I’d say that’s pretty epic.

Our half-day trip with OX Expeditions involved hiking to the best volcanic viewpoints through cloud forests and over lava fields, and even roasting marshmallows from the heat of the volcano!

In this post, I discuss the Pacaya volcano hike difficulty, as well as everything you need to know about the hike. So, let’s get started!

Other Guatemala posts:

• Is Tikal Worth Visiting? COMPLETE Tikal Guide
• Flores To Tikal: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
• How To Get From Flores To Semuc Champey
• Semuc Champey From Antigua: Step-By-Step Guide

Pacaya Volcano Hike Difficulty: A Summary

So, just how difficult is the Pacaya volcano hike? If you are someone with moderate-good fitness, you will be able to hike Pacaya. It is a low-medium difficulty hike and takes under 1.5 hours to reach the summit* from the shuttle drop-off point.

The first part of the ascent is quite steep, but you are able to take as many stops as necessary (especially with the patient OX Expedition guides!) It’s uphill, but it’s not technically difficult. If you are really struggling, you can rent a horse (although I do not recommend this and never condone any kind of animal tourism).

During the descent, there are some parts of slippery terrain, but it’s nothing to worry about. I personally rented hiking poles which helped me, and so did most of the rest of the group. Again, it’s not difficult, but volcanic terrains can be slippy!

There is no technical hiking to do, sheer edges, difficult rocks to climb over or anything that you may find too strenuous. Of course, you’re still hiking an 8373ft volcano, – but it isn’t as challenging as hiking its neighbour Acatenango. There are also plenty of rest stops along the way, with pretty views of lagoons and surrounding mountains.

For someone with a fear of heights (like me!) Pacaya is a great volcano to hike. As I said, there are no sheer edges and drops, and you’re surrounded by forest for most of the ascent. On the descent, there was a moment when I felt a bit ‘eek!’ about the height, but it was over within 30 minutes.

We saw people of all ages hiking Pacaya, including children. Book with a company like OX Expeditions so you know you’ll be in good hands if you feel worried!

*You do not reach the actual summit of the Pacaya volcano. You stop just below the Pacaya volcano summit to roast marshmallows and admire the view.

About Pacaya Volcano Guatemala: Quick Facts

Pacaya Volcano is one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes, and its last major eruption was in 2021. First erupting 23,000 years ago, it is known for its frequent volcanic activity and attracts adventurous tourists from all over the world.

It is around a 1 hour and 15-minute drive from Antigua (or 1 hour and 30 minutes from Guatemala City), depending on traffic. The drive consists of travelling through small Guatemalan villages and towns until reaching a location named San Fransico; the starting point of the hike, at 1910 ft high.

The official status of Pacaya Volcano is active. However, the lava flows haven’t been visible since May 2021. But the heat and steam through the hot rocks (where you’ll roast marshmallows) indicate there is still a lot of under-the-surface activity, meaning another eruption is imminent!

Pacaya is the smallest of the four major volcanoes near Antigua, after Fuego (‘the fire volcano’, which you may have seen on Instagram), Acatenango (the hardest volcano hike in Antigua), and Agua (which isn’t typically hiked by tourists or backpackers).

🌋 TOP TIP: You cannot hike Pacaya alone, and will need to book a tour. These tours get booked up fast, so I recommend pre-booking online. If you’re looking for the best tour company, we recommend OX Expeditions (after doing two volcano hikes with them, we can guarantee they are amazing at what they do!)

Best volcano hiking companies in Antigua

Without a doubt, the best company to book your volcano hike with is OX Expeditions. With a strong passion for outdoor adventures, OX offers tours all over Guatemala, including the famous volcano hikes, mountain bike tours and kayaking at Lake Atitlan.

OX has a mission to change people’s lives through amazing challenges and adventures, all whilst promoting Guatemala and supporting the local communities. They partner with Los Patojos, where they educate over 250 children, and take their students on a trip to Pacaya at the end of the year to experience the magic of being in the mountains!

No matter your level of experience, the OX team are there to support you. As someone who is a little nervous of heights, I experienced their incredible level of support and patience with one of their guides on Pacaya. They are supportive, professional and caring, and just want you to have an epic adventurous experience!

From the minute we signed up, every aspect of the hike was taken into consideration. We even received a creative PDF document full of info-graphics and detailed logistics about our Pacaya trip, which helped me to mentally prepare for the altitude we would be experiencing. They quite literally take over everything, so all you have to worry about is enjoying the experience!

“The mountains are our church.”

-Ox Expeditions, www.oxexpeditions.com

🤩 🌋 Book your once-in-a-lifetime Pacaya hike with OX Expeditions here!

OX Expeditions Pacaya Volcano Trip Information

If you are hiking Pacaya, here is some information about the trip!

Pacaya Difficulty	Easy-moderate
Cost	$59 (£48) – Half-day tour $79 (£65) – Overnight tour
Timings	6am or 2pm
Duration	6-7 hours (including transfers)
Included	Rental gear, sandwich on the volcano, marshmallows, local guide, bi-lingual professional guide
Not included	Extra snacks, guide gratuity, park entrance fee
What to wear	Hiking clothes (no cotton), a good pair of trainers or hiking boots, a hat and sunscreen
Good to know	OX Expeditions does not take the tourist route, and instead takes you on a private circular path giving you the opportunity to see things most tourists don’t!

Hiking Pacaya Volcano

Hiking Pacaya volcano is one of the best things to do in Antigua. As I previously mentioned, there are two departure times with OX Expeditions, either sunrise or sunset. They also offer an overnight camping tour (you can view the different types of tours here).

So, what does the tour look like, and what should you expect from Pacaya Volcano?

🤩 🌋 Book your once-in-a-lifetime Pacaya hike with OX Expeditions here!

THE ASCENT

The ascent starts at the San Fransico drop-off point which sits at approximately 1910ft. From here, you will ascend a further 1389ft to the main volcano viewpoint.

When you first start the hike, it’s a steep incline on an uphill rocky path. It’s relatively difficult fitness-wise, but there are no technical parts to the climb. It is here where you can hire a horse if you are struggling. You’ll make a few stops along the way, including a viewpoint over Laguna de Calderas.

The second part of the ascent is through a cloud forest. It is totally enclosed within the forest area, and it can become quite humid and hot. Most of the ground is soil with exposed roots, with a mix of both steep and flat parts.

Finally, you will reach the last part of your ascent in the dry lava fields. This is where you will see the Pacaya volcano for the first time!

TOP TIP: You can only rent hiking poles at the start of the hike. There will be locals selling them at the entrance for under 10 Q per pole (£1/$1.50). I highly recommend hiking poles regardless of your level of fitness or expertise, as the volcanic terrain can be slippery!

THE SUMMIT

When you reach the first main viewpoint, you will have around 10/15 minutes to take photos and admire the views. This was actually our favourite part of the trip – seeing Pacaya up close for the first time!

You will then walk for another 15 minutes through the lava fields until you reach a hotspot to roast marshmallows! OX also gave us a glass of wine to enjoy the view, as we sat and ate our sandwiches (with the cute volcano dogs) soaking it all in. A core memory made!

The terrain at the summit is easy to walk on, but you just need to mind your step as it’s quite rocky and bumpy. I found my hiking poles to really help on the lava fields.

Before starting our descent, we hiked to the highest point of the viewpoint and watched the sunset over the clouds. A total bucket list moment!

THE DESCENT

The descent back to the shuttle takes around an hour. It’s an easy descent, but if you’re at all afraid of heights, this is the part where you might feel a bit uneasy. The descent is quite steep on volcanic terrain, so it can be slippery. Hiking poles were being used to their full capacity here!

There is also nothing to shield how high you actually are, so realising you’re above the clouds can be a little daunting! But, the views are absolutely incredible, and even if you are a little nervous like I was, it’s worth it.

The slippery descent from Pacaya doesn’t last for long, and within 30 minutes, we were back on flatter terrain walking towards the shuttle. This is the part where you’ll need your headlamp, as it gets dark quickly!

🎞️ More of a visual learner? Check out my volcano hike reels on my Instagram here!

Best time of year to hike Pacaya Volcano

You can visit the Pacaya Volcano at any time of year. However, the rainy season in Guatemala is from May to October, but rain can last until later in the year (even as far as December), so if you want to avoid the rain, January to May is the best time to hike.

We hiked Pacaya in February and opted for the sunset tour. Luckily we were greeted with clear blue skies throughout the entire day!

🤩 🌋 Book your once-in-a-lifetime Pacaya hike with OX Expeditions here!

What to wear and pack for the Pacaya Volcano hike

It’s really important that you wear and pack the right things when hiking Pacaya. OX Expeditions actually sent us a packing list beforehand, which prepared us! If you’re planning on doing the Pacaya hike, be sure to pack and wear:

• Comfortable active clothes (no cotton)
• Comfortable shoes (walking boots or trainers)
• A raincoat (we didn’t need this, so check the weather beforehand)
• A day pack with water, a headlamp, snacks, suncream and sunglasses
• Cash to tip your guides or buy any snacks along the way
• Camera, drone or any technical equipment you need for photos!

NOTE: If you do not have a headlamp, your tour company will provide one. OX Expeditions handed out headlamps at the start of our Pacaya tour for free.

Will I see the lava flow on the Pacaya Volcano hike in 2023?

Unfortunately not! The lava flows finished in May 2021. After seeing a number of photos of the lava flow on the Internet, it can be a little disappointing (as seeing lava like that would be incredible). But don’t let it dampen your spirit, it’s still an amazing hike and the views are still incredible, even without the lava flows.

Related post: 3 Perfect Days In Antigua

Pacaya Volcano FAQs

1) Is hiking Pacaya volcano worth it?

Yes! Pacaya Volcano is absolutely worth it. Unfortunately, Pacaya doesn’t get the same attention Fuego and Acatenango do, as it’s seen as the ‘easier’ climb. But it’s still an incredible volcano and an active one!

It’s not an ‘easy‘ hike and still requires a moderate to good level of fitness. You will experience incredible views over Guatemala, and watch either the sunset or sunrise from the (near) top of a volcano. Just being close enough to an active volcano and roasting marshmallows on the lava hotspots is something I will remember forever!

Trust me, it’s definitely a bucket list experience!

🌋 Pre-booking your volcano hikes? We used (and can highly recommend) OX Expeditions. As well as having experienced and expert guides, they are known for being the best volcano hiking company in Antigua. You can check out availability and prices here!

2) How long does it take to climb Pacaya?

From the drop-off point, it will take approximately 1.5-2 hours to hike to the main Pacaya viewpoint. The hike is a mixture of terrains, so some parts may take longer than others. This duration also includes multiple rest stops.

If you’re struggling to keep up, don’t worry. OX Expeditions purposely sends two tour guides, so that one can be at the front, and one at the back. The guide at the back is used to having slower tourists hike the volcano, so they will be patient if you want to go at your own pace!

3) Is Pacaya an active volcano?

Yes, Pacaya is an active volcano. Its last major eruption was in 2021, although the lava flows have now disappeared.

4) What is the easiest volcano hike in Antigua Guatemala?

Pacaya is known as one of the easiest volcano hikes in Antigua, Guatemala, but it’s still not ‘easy’. Yes, it’s easier than its neighbouring Fuego and Acatenango, but it’s still an 8373ft volcano!

When it comes to the Pacaya Volcano hike difficulty, don’t expect it to be a walk in the park! You’re still gaining an elevation of 1389ft when you hike Pacaya.

Related post: 3 Perfect Days In Antigua | One Week In El Salvador

5) Should I hike Pacaya or Acatenango?

This is down to personal preference, time and fitness levels.

If you have a short amount of time in Antigua, you may want to just spend half a day hiking Pacaya. It’s still an active volcano and still has incredible views at the summit. For us and the rest of our group, it was definitely a bucket list experience!

If you have good-to-excellent fitness levels and additional time in Antigua, you may want to hike Acatenango. This is one of the most iconic volcano hikes in the world, as you hike close to the famous Fuego – the ‘fire volcano’. However, this is an overnight hike not for the faint-hearted – so choose wisely!

>> All information on the Acatenango and Fuego hike can be found here.

🎞️ More of a visual learner? Check out my volcano hike reels on my Instagram here!

6) Can I hike Pacaya with a fear of heights?

Yes! As someone with a fear of heights, Pacaya is an amazing hike to do. For me, my fear is centred around drops, sheer edges and ridges, as I have an irrational fear of falling. Pacaya luckily doesn’t have any edges, ridges or scary drops.

The only part where I felt a little ‘eek’ was the descent. There is a short part where you won’t have any forestry or trees to shield you from realising just how high you actually are. Plus, you’ll be descending on slippery volcanic terrain.

However, it was over pretty quickly (within 30 minutes), and although I was scared, I found it was ok and just kept going.

If you want to speak more in-depth about the terrain on Pacaya in regard to your height worries, or the Pacaya Volcano hike difficulty, message me directly on Instagram and I can explain in more detail! I know how it feels to desperately want to do a hike but not know what the terrain is going to be like.

7) Will I get altitude sickness by hiking Pacaya Volcano?

Altitude sickness is not common on Pacaya volcano, but it can happen. To avoid any altitude side effects, stay hydrated, don’t drink alcohol the previous day, rest and tell your guide if you are feeling unwell.

8) Is Pacaya safe to hike?

Yes, hiking Pacaya is extremely safe. Tour operators such as OX Expeditions monitor volcanic activity, and will not take tourists to the crater of the volcano where it is unsafe.

🤩 🌋 Book your once-in-a-lifetime Pacaya hike with OX Expeditions here!

9) Can I fly a drone on Pacaya?

Yes, you can fly a drone on the Pacaya volcano. Just be careful not to fly it too close to the crater, as your poor little drone might not make it back from the bubbling heat!

Where to stay in Antigua when hiking Pacaya

There are so many amazing hostels to choose from in Antigua that it’s hard to pick the best one! However, after staying in some myself, and talking to other backpackers, we’ve found these are the most popular choices.

Remember: things change quickly when it comes to hostels! Make sure you always read the reviews first.

• Somos: a social hostel with amazing rooftop views
• Hostel Antigueno: another social hostel with a large communal garden
• The Purpose Hostel: beautiful rooftop views of all 3 volcanos 
• Barbara’s Boutique Hostel: the most expensive hostel in Antigua, but also one of the most luxurious!
• Casi Casa: a ‘home away from home‘ kind of hostel with comfy beds, a roof terrace and homemade breakfast
• Tropicana: best for solo travellers wanting to party in Antigua!

Best backpacker travel insurance for Central America

If you’re visiting Central America as a backpacker, or even for a short vacation, it is so important to have travel insurance. And if you ended up on a post that’s called ‘epic party tips’, you know (just as well as I do) that you definitely need travel insurance.

Personally, I recommend SafetyWing. As a digital nomad and world traveller myself, I can confirm it is the best travel insurance out there. And one of the cheapest – they have deals that start at just $42 USD per month.

I know, I know, you’re thinking ‘but I can’t afford that!’. I was the same! It’s tough to fork out $42 a month on something ‘you might not need’. But what if something DOES happen? That extra Mezcal shot results in you falling down the stairs, or you eat something dodgy from a street food van.

If you need medical help at any point whilst in Central America, you need travel insurance.

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Don’t even think twice about getting travel insurance for Central America. Trust me, I have heard enough horror stories about backpackers who haven’t had insurance and have ended up in a lot of debt. Don’t be that person!

If you’ve been putting the job off because it takes a lot of time and effort to research the best travel insurance companies, I understand. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you. Sign up for SafetyWing, and the job is done!

Pacaya Volcano Hike Difficulty: In a Nutshell

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about the Pacaya Volcano hike difficulty, what company you should hike Pacaya with and just how brilliant it really is!

It really was one of our favourite days whilst in Guatemala, and if you have the time to do it, I highly recommend it.

When you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, make sure you let me know over on Instagram or in the comments below!

If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at first-time backpackers on a budget. I’m backpacking Central America with my boyfriend (read more here!), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!

Keep an eye out for more Guatemala content, all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates here!

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

Jennie x

Other Guatemala posts:

• Semuc Champey From Antigua: Step-By-Step Guide
• Is Semuc Champey Worth It? A COMPLETE Guide
• How To Get From Flores To Semuc Champey
• 3 Days in Antigua Guatemala: The Perfect Itinerary