12 Best Pacaya Volcano Tours from Antigua

1. Pacaya Volcano Luxury Sunset Horseback Riding Tour/ Dinner Cooked by Lava Chef

Horse saddle on Pacaya — Horse on Pacaya Volcano © Jeff McArthur

If you’re looking for a luxury experience on an active volcano, look no further! This Luxury Sunset Pacaya Volcano tour from Antigua is the only one I would describe as luxe on this entire list, and an experience like no other.

On this private volcano Pacaya tour from Antigua, you can expect to be greeted with a colorfully dressed horse, guided over the lava rocks, and then have a private chef cook pizza on hot lava coals while you drink wine and take in the views. Roast marshmallows over the steam while the sun sets (sunset option available during the dry season only), try a sampling of gourmet local chocolate, and then be led back safely by your cowboy guide.

If you’re not interested in hiking, this is an awesome tour that will let you enjoy the raw beauty of an active volcano alongside a wonderful meal.

A portion of all proceeds from this tour goes back to Soul Shine Horse Rescue.

Duration: Around 6 hours
Cost: $295 a person
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Transportation: Hotel pick up
What’s provided: hotel pick up, guided horses, all park fees, food, drinks, and guides
Maximum group size: 15 people total

Convinced? Book Now! If not, read this review:

Pacaya Volcano Luxury Sunset Tour Featured Review:

Once-in-a-lifetime experience!

It’s near-impossible to put this adventure into words.… To say my expectations were set high after years of fantasizing is a gross understatement. Somehow Niki and her team surpassed even my highest of hopes. … The view was extraordinary and my kids spent hours climbing over the rocky terrain. It was magical. And the pizza was delicious! My husband and I also got to drink wine while my children roasted s’mores w the help of the team. Of all the options for adventures around this beautiful country, this is at the top. This will be something we talk about for years to come, –Barbara M, Tripadvisor Reviewer, Jul 2022

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2. Pacaya Volcano ATV Tour – Most epic Pacaya Volcano Tours from Antigua

Burning Lava on Pacaya Volcano © Jeff McArthur

This Pacaya Volcano ATV Tour sounds like an absolute blast to me! You drive up to the top of Pacaya Volcano Antigua in an ATV, walk around the crater and cook snacks prepared in the steam vents. Then you drive down to the surrounding villages and check out a lava field and nearby windmills. Talk about epic!

Don’t be fooled by the fact that you’re driving up! They recommend a moderate physical fitness level for driving ATVs. You also need a valid driver’s license to book this tour.

Duration: 7 hours
Cost: $125
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Transportation: Pick up and drop off at Simoon Rentals & Tours office in Antigua
What’s provided: transportation to Pacaya National Park, park fees, ATVs, water, snacks, guide
Maximum group size: 6 people

Convinced? Book now, or read the review:

Pacaya Volcano ATV Tour Featured Review:

It was awesome from beginning to end. … [Our] tour guides made the trip special. They’ve answered every question we had about the Pacaya Volcano. We made pizza, marshmallows, and paninis on the volcano, and what an experience it was. Lester also took us to a spot that was devastated by lava. The trip on the ATVs puts your adrenaline on high because even though it is a bit complicated we had a blast. – Jose J on Viator.com September 2022

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3. Pacaya Volcano Morning Tour & Picnic

Hiking through the lava fields on Pacaya volcano © Jeff McArthur

This guided morning tour from Antigua to Pacaya volcano leads you up to a variety of trails to the base of the caldera and through extraterrestrial dried lava fields. Enjoy the views of the three surrounding volcanoes while you reward yourself with a freshly prepared picnic and then head back down through the lush forests and farmlands on the other side of the Pacaya volcano Antigua

Duration: approximately 8 hours
Cost: From $138.47 (varies depending on the size of the group)
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Transportation: Pick up and drop off at Old Town Outfitters Shop in Antigua
What’s provided: transportation, park fees, lunch, and a guide
Maximum group size: 15 people

Convinced? Book now, or keep reading:

Pacaya Volcano Morning Tour & Picnic Featured Review

Great little adventure! Be sure to bring layers; our hike was very windy for the most part but we warmed up as we climbed. Also, when you get to the hike start point, folks with horses and walking sticks will be offering these to you, they follow you up somewhere around halfway up if you don’t buy anything from them to start with. They were friendly, but just a different experience compared to the US. The guides were very friendly and thoughtful. The provided lunch was very tasty. Would book through this outfit again, and definitely recommend it to others -KSwagner, TripAdvisor Review, February 2022

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4. Pacaya Volcano Sunset Tour from Antigua

Yvonne on Pacaya Volcano — © Jeff McArthur

Watch the sunset from the volcano in Antigua and enjoy a warm meal before being led back down the mountain. Depending on the volcanic activity, you may even get to see hot lava glowing in the dark. Even without hot lava, the views are still a sight to behold.

This afternoon hiking tour doesn’t meet until 2:00 pm. With the cooler temperatures of the late afternoon and evening, other hikers recommended bringing a jacket to stay warm, and wearing tall socks to keep loose lava rocks out of your shoes.

Duration: approximately 8 hours
Cost: From $138.47
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Transportation: Pick up and drop off at Old Town Outfitters Shop in Antigua
What’s provided: Supper, transportation, park fees, guide
Maximum group size: 15 people

Pacaya Volcano Sunset Tour Featured Review:

Great Trip!

Really enjoyed the views, and instruction on the history of Guatemala, and all of the guides were exceptionally friendly and helpful. -Bruce C, Viator Review, June 2022

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5. Pacaya Volcano Day Trip from Antigua

This day hike takes you to the top of Volcano Pacaya, with a mid-way stop bringing you to the lagoon of Calderas, with amazing views of three other neighboring volcanos. While you won’t make your way to the main crater (due to safety concerns), you’ll get close to the 8,000 ft peak. Plus, water is provided on this tour, so all you have to worry about is the snacks!

Duration: approximately 7 hours
Cost: From $85 (price varies depending on the size of group)
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️ Badge of Excellence
Transportation: Hotel pickup from Antigua
What’s provided: transportation, water, park fees, guide
Maximum group size: not specified

Pacaya Volcano Day Trip from Antigua Featured Review:

Great day, decent hike and great views!
We had a great trip to the volcano! It’s a decent hike up with amazing views at the top! Easy transport with water provided. Make sure to bring your own snacks. Davis was a great guide! Would recommend. – Haley H, Viator Review, July 2022

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6. Hike to Pacaya Volcano from Antigua – Best Budget Pacaya Volcano Tour

Pool of Molten Lava on Pacaya Volcano © Jeff McArthur

Just want the adventure, none of the frills? This Antigua volcano tour has you covered! One of the cheapest tours on the list, experience one of the most active volcanos in all of Guatemala without breaking the bank. You’re in charge of your food and water but will get a knowledgeable tour guide who can tell you all about this volcano. One thing to note- this tour doesn’t cover the entrance fee to the park, so make sure to bring extra cash.

Duration: approximately 6 hours
Cost: $35
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Transportation: hotel pickup in Antigua
What’s provided: transportation, guide
Maximum group size: not specified

Hike to Pacaya Volcano Featured Review

“I Lava’d It”

Transport picked us up on time outside of our hotel. The ride to Pacaya Volcano was smooth. The guides were informative and kind. And the views of the volcano are incredible! Make sure to take some snacks, water, and warm layers as it gets chilly at the top…” -Kelly Z, February 2020, Viator Review

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7. Private Pacaya Volcano Tour – Best Private Pacaya Volcano Tour

Pacaya Volcano Crater © Jeff McArthur (Most tours don’t go up to the crater)

If you want individualized service- this is the best Volcano Pacaya tour from Antigua for you! With a minimum group size of 2 people, this tour lets you set the pace, ask all the questions your heart desires of your guides and enjoy the vistas without interruption.

National park admission tickets are not included.

Duration: 5-6 hours
Cost: $84 (price varies by group size)
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Transportation: hotel pick up
What’s provided: transportation, guides
Maximum group size: minimum of two, maximum not specified.

Private Pacaya Volcano Tour Featured Review

“Excellent Experience”

Excellent experience. Our tour guide Daniel was incredibly nice… The ride to the Volcano was a bit long, but our tour guide made it up with a pleasant conversation, providing detailed information about the area. It was my first time visiting Pacaya, what an unforgettable experience. I would recommend it. My advice would be to make sure to wear a nice pair of hiking boots. –Jorge A, May 2022, Viator Review

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8. Pacaya Tour & Hot Springs Spa

From rugged nature to luxury, this full-day Pacaya volcano tour and hot springs tour from Antigua begins with a hike up Pacaya Volcano. It ends with a relaxing soak at the Kawilal Hot Springs, which includes 12 soaking pools, 25 steam baths, and 3 hydrotherapy baths. Talk about workout recovery!

Just make sure to specify you want the hot springs tour when you’re checking out.

Note: Other travelers mentioned that they were expecting natural hot springs, where this is more of a resort with man-made pools.

Duration: approximately 9 hours
Cost: $130 a person
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️ Badge of Excellence
Transportation: hotel pick up in Antigua
What’s provided: transportation, hiking guide, entrance fees
Maximum group size: not specified

Pacaya Tour & Hot Springs Spa Featured Review

“I have never seen lava that close before!”

This was an amazing tour! The hike up to where the jagged rock is is all uphill and takes about 90 minutes, but there are plenty of spots to take breaks, etc… We even got to roast marshmallows in the rocks! The hike back down was much faster. We drove about an hour or so to the lunch spot which was delicious. This was also at the Hot Springs place. The hot springs felt amazing after a morning of hiking and climbing! They have several pools of various temperatures that you rotate to (hot to cold, cold to hot, etc). If you want to see lava, this tour is for you!! -Robert T, Viator Review, July 2019

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9. Day Tour to Pacaya Volcano from Antigua Guatemala on Private Vehicle

Volcan Pacaya Lava flows — Pacaya lava flows © Jeff McArthur

This day tour to Pacaya Volcano is likely to sell out, so I’d book your tickets for this tour quickly. Get to Pacaya earlier than the crowds, enjoy the landscape and then refresh at the top with complimentary water, soda, or a beer. Make sure to bring your own lunch!

Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Cost: From $95
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Transportation: hotel pickup
What’s provided: transportation, hiking guide, entrance fee, water, soda, and beer.
Maximum group size: 8 people total

Convinced? Book now, or read the review:

Day Tour to Pacaya Volcano Featured Review

“Pacaya is a must-do when in Antigua”

Our driver was safe, knowledgeable and informative … He brought a variety of snacks and drinks for us to take on the hike and for afterwards. At Pacaya, our guide Cesar took us on an informative, educational, cultural and engaging journey to the recent lava flows above. He shared personal stories and made us feel like we participated in a true cultural exchange…This tour is a must-do!
– D. Chappas, June 2022, Viator Tour

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10. Pacaya Volcano Sunrise Tour

View from Slopes of Pacaya © Jeff McArthur

What better place to see the sunrise than from the top of an active volcano? Enjoy having the mountain to yourself on this Pacaya Volcano Sunrise Tour!

You’ll see the lava flows and watch the sunrise over the three volcanoes near Antigua, Guatemala, as well as the quaint colonial town itself. The best part is there’s plenty of time left in the day for more adventuring and even a nap!

Duration: 6 hours
Cost: From $77.89
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Transportation: hotel pickup
What’s provided: transportation, guide, coffee/tea,
Maximum group size: 12 people

Pacaya Volcano Sunrise Tour Featured Review

“Must do hike accompanied by tremendous service”

This was an unbelievable day! We started at 4:30 am departing from Antigua to make it to the Pacaya Volcano summit by sunrise. The bus was… a very friendly environment with a bunch of other 30-somethings onboard. Not to mention, there were snacks and wifi included. The best part of it all was the tremendous knowledge the tour operator, Piero, had. Climbing up the volcano with him was like being in a NATGEO show, he knew everything and extremely helpful. I would recommend this tour to anybody looking for memorable experiences while in Guatemala.
– Henry M, Oct. 2019, TripAdvisor review.

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11. Pacaya Volcano, Marshmallow Roasting, Lunch & Hotsprings

Hanging out with a local dog on a Pacaya Volcano Hike — Hanging out with a local dog on a Pacaya Volcano © Jeff McArthur

As far as Pacaya volcano tours go, this one has it all! Hike up a volcano, reward yourself with marshmallows (also known as “angelitos”), eat a delicious lunch, and rest and relax at the Kawilal hot springs.

While lunch is included, the Pacaya National park entrance fee is not. Be sure to bring cash for the entrance fee, walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to take lots of pictures! Other guests recommended bringing a clean pair of clothes for after the hot springs.

Duration: 9 hours
Cost: $115 per person
Rating: 4.8 ⭐️
Transportation: Hotel pickup (except during the holy week, April 17-21).
What’s provided: transportation, lunch
Maximum group size: 10 participants

Pacaya Volcano, Marshmallow Roasting, Lunch & Hotsprings Featured Review

“Five Stars”

The hike was kind of challenging but great … The marshmallow roasting was a fun ending! After the hike, we drove about 40 minutes to a fancy resort for the lunch, then went on the ‘thermal circuit’. We didn’t get much for instructions so ask questions! There were four small pools ranging from something like 75 to 105 F. Free smoothies too! It felt quite luxurious!
– Mary, Get Your Guide, August 2022

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12. Pacaya Volcano Trek – Cheapest Pacaya Volcano Tour

Preparing snacks in the steam vents on Pacaya Volcano

If you’re balling on a budget, this is the best Antigua volcano tour on the list for you. You’ll head up through wonderful pine forests, through volcanic ash, and end at the sulfur smoking cone. This tour includes transportation and a guide, but make sure to bring cash for the entrance fee.

This is one of the few Pacaya Volcano Tours from Antigua that is also not available for children below the age of 12 or adults above the age of 70.

Duration: approximately 6 hours
Cost: $23
Rating: 4.4 ⭐️
Transportation: hotel pick up in Antigua
What’s provided: transportation, guide
Maximum group size: 14 people

Pacaya Volcano Trek Featured Review

Five Stars

Pretty cool to roast marshmallows on the lava fields’ vents. The hike is pretty easy and the guide was easy to understand with minimal Spanish.
– Get Your Guide Traveler’s Review

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Pacaya Volcano FAQs

Read on for some of the basic information about this volcano in Antigua so that you can enter your tour prepared for what lies ahead!

How long does it take to hike Volcan Pacaya?

The hike is 3.2 miles on an out-and-back trail. It takes an average of 2.5 hours to complete. The route is considered challenging, but that’s mostly due to the terrain and humidity- as far as volcano hikes go, this one is accessible. Plus there are always horses and walking sticks to rent if you need some extra help.

How far is Pacaya Volcano from Antigua?

The location of the Pacaya volcano is a mere 30 miles away from Antigua. Depending on the traffic, it takes 1.5 to 2 hours to drive there. Keep in mind, if your shuttle is making multiple stops in Antigua, the total drive time may be longer.

Is Pacaya Volcano active?

Yes! Pacaya is an active volcano. It’s been erupting frequently since 1961. There haven’t been lava flows since the last eruption (May 2021), but it’s still considered one of the most active volcanoes in the country.

Pacaya volcano eruptions info

Ash from the 2010 Pacaya Eruption © Jeff McArthur

Since 1565 Pacaya has erupted over 23 times but was dormant for over a century until 1962 when the area of the summit began to sink in and a dome grew up.

In June 2015 a new pyroclastic cone inside the summit formed and it produced loud explosions. It erupts both Strombolian and Vulcanian meaning it has short lava flows, small pyroclastic flows, and debris avalanches.

This adds lots of interest when going on Pacaya Volcano Tours from Antigua!

Where is Pacaya volcano located?

Pacaya is approximately 15 miles south of Guatemala City, Guatemala and is part of the Central American Volcanic Arc, a chain of volcanoes that stretch along the Pacific coast of Central America.

How much does it cost to go to Pacaya volcano?

For non-national tourists the entrance fee is Q100. For nationals, the entrance fee is 30Q, and for students, it’s 10Q.

Paid Pacaya Volcano Tours from Antigua cost anywhere between $23 and $295 depending on the group size and amenities.

A guide is included in all of the tours I mentioned above, but if you go on your own transportation, keep in mind, you are required to hire a guide to hike the volcano. Make sure to haggle! The cost per guide should only be about Q200.

Is Pacaya Volcano dangerous?

Hiking an active volcano isn’t without risks, but the volcano is closely monitored. Pay attention to your guides and follow their recommendations about where to walk on the lava fields. Other than that, drink plenty of water, dress appropriately, and use common sense. If you follow these tips, your volcano hike shouldn’t be any more dangerous than the average hike, but it will be a lot more epic.

12 Best Pacaya Volcano Tours from Antigua: Final Thoughts

Pacaya Volcano from ridge — © Jeff McArthur

Experiencing Pacaya is a must-do if you’re in Guatemala, so don’t miss out! This volcano is accessible and has options for everyone. Now that you have access to this curated list, you don’t have any excuses left!

I’ve hiked Pacaya Volcano multiple times and have loved how every time is a little different. With a rugged landscape and beautiful views, I’ve never regretted taking the time to go up.

Editor’s Pick: Pacaya Tour & Hot Springs Spa

Enjoy the full package deal with this hiking tour! Hike up Pacaya, explore the lava fields, then head to some man-made hot springs to soak your sore muscles and refuel with a tasty lunch.

I can’t wait to go back and try pizza cooked in a geothermal hot spot! Talk about a fun reward for a morning hike! I think any of the volcano tours Antigua Guatemala has to offer would be a great choice, but I want to have a Jurassic Park moment and cruise to the top of this active volcano in an ATV.

Whatever tour you choose, the memories will be unforgettable. So what are you waiting for? Go book one of these awesome Pacaya Volcano Tours from Antigua today.

Once you’ve done that, continue the epic-ness by climbing Acatenango Volcano or heading to Lake Atitlán and climbing San Pedro Volcano. Get to Panajachel easily by checking out my post on the best shuttles from Antigua to Panajachel.

Or if you’re looking for something more chill, don’t miss this post on the best things to do in Antigua from coffee tours to chocolate workshops to amazing food tours and cooking classes.

About the Author

Val McArthur is a communications specialist currently living on the island of Maui. She grew up in Guatemala where she developed a taste for high-quality coffee, the outdoors, and multi-cultural experiences.

***GUATEMALA TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE***

Should I buy Guatemala travel insurance?
YES — Personally, I always travel with travel insurance because it gives me extra peace of mind. SafetyWing is an excellent travel insurance company that’s quite affordable. Plus, if you travel longterm, it’s a snap to renew on a month to month basis. You can keep renewing for up to a year and still pay the same deductible.

Where’s the best place for finding cheap flights to Guatemala?
When I purchase a ticket, I always search several different sites. Kayak and Expedia are great places to start running a search. Spirit is usually the cheapest carrier, but American Airlines and United also sometimes offer excellent deals.

What’s the best way to book my Guatemala accommodations?
I recommend booking.com for finding and booking hotels in Guatemala. For vacation rentals, I recommend VRBO.com — it offers beautiful and unique spots to stay.

What’s the best way to book Guatemala tours?
Viator is a great tour booking site with several excellent options available in Guatemala’s main tourist areas including Tikal, Atitlán, Antigua, and Acatenango. There’s a nice range of prices and options available.

Can you drink the water in Guatemala?
No – Don’t drink the tap water! Instead, buy purified water from any corner store or grocery store in Guatemala.

Be sure to brush your teeth with that water as well to avoid getting sick. And hydrated, especially when traveling to high elevations.

Do I need a visa for Guatemala?
Probably not — Visitors to Guatemala from “Category A” countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, Australia, and most European countries are automatically given a 90-day tourist visa (in the form of a passport stamp) when entering Guatemala.

This visa is valid for Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador. At the end of 90 days, it can be renewed once at Guatemala’s Migración without leaving the country.

After 180 days, you will have to travel outside of Central America before returning. Check to see if you need a visa.

Will my phone work in Guatemala?
It’s possible, but check with your provider in advance to see if Guatemala is covered. If not, you can easily pick up a local SIM card.

There are essentially only two carriers in the country: TIGO and CLARO. Both have good coverage.