Volcán Pacaya
Sacatepéquez
Volcán Pacaya is an active complex volcano located in the Escuintla Department of Guatemala, rising to 2,552 meters. It has erupted frequently since the Spanish conquest, with notable activity resuming in 1961 after a long dormancy. The volcano is part of the Central American Volcanic Arc and sits on the edge of a large Pleistocene caldera that formed Lago de Amatitlán. Known for its mostly Strombolian eruptions, Pacaya occasionally produces powerful Plinian eruptions that shower ash over nearby regions. Its frequent lava flows have created dramatic landscapes that attract tourists for hiking, volcano boarding, and unique events like the Guatemala Impact Marathon across recent lava fields. The volcano is located close to Antigua and Guatemala City, making it a popular destination. Pacaya National Park was established to manage tourism and conservation in the area. Visitors can witness glowing lava flows and ash plumes, making it one of Central America's most active and visually impressive volcanoes. The volcano's instability due to a shallow magma chamber poses ongoing hazards to surrounding communities.
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Tip: The best time to visit Volcán Pacaya is during the dry season to avoid rain and slippery trails. Guided tours are recommended for safety and to enhance the experience. It is advisable to purchase park entrance tickets in advance if possible, as the park charges a fee to support local communities and conservation. Visitors should wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water and warm clothing for higher elevations. Avoid visiting during periods of heightened volcanic activity or ashfall alerts for safety reasons.
Interesting facts
- •Pacaya has erupted at least 23 times since the Spanish conquest of Guatemala.
- •The volcano is part of the Central American Volcanic Arc formed by tectonic plate subduction.
- •Pacaya's 2010 eruption caused ashfall that disrupted Guatemala City's international airport.
- •The volcano hosts the Guatemala Impact Marathon, which includes running across recent lava fields.
- •Volcano boarding is practiced on Pacaya's craters as an adventurous tourist activity.
History
Volcán Pacaya began erupting approximately 23,000 years ago and has been one of Central America's most active volcanoes over the past 500 years.
About 1,100 years ago, the volcano's edifice collapsed, causing a massive landslide that traveled 25 kilometers to the Pacific coastal plain, leaving a large crater where the current cone has grown.
The volcano was dormant for over 70 years until vigorous eruptions began in 1961, continuing frequently since then.
Notable eruptions occurred in 1998 and 2010, with the latter causing widespread ashfall affecting Guatemala City and nearby areas.
The volcano remains active with ongoing unrest observed in 2026.
Place Guide
Active Cone and Lava FlowsPost 23,000 years ago
The central active cone of Pacaya has been growing within the large Pleistocene caldera. Visitors can observe recent lava flows that glow during eruptions, providing spectacular views especially at night.
Pacaya National ParkEstablished in recent decades
The park encompasses the volcano and surrounding areas, managing tourism and conservation efforts. It offers trails, safety measures, and entry points for guided tours.
