Top Guatemala City Day Trips

This was one of the highlights of my trip to Guatemala. Pacaya Volcano offers a unique opportunity to hike across relatively recent lava fields while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes and countryside. The hike was more physically demanding than I expected, especially under the midday sun. I made the mistake of forgetting my sunscreen, hat, and even my acetazolamide, so I underestimated how challenging the ascent would feel. Although I consider myself to be in good shape, I ultimately decided to take one of the horses for the climb up—and I’m glad I did. The horse handlers were experienced, and it allowed me to conserve energy to fully enjoy the volcano itself. I was determined to hike the entire descent on foot, which turned out to be a rewarding experience. Walking down the volcanic ash and lava rock was challenging but a lot of fun, and my fitness tracker certainly agreed! One of the most memorable parts of the tour was enjoying a freshly made vegetable pizza cooked using the volcano’s natural geothermal heat. It may sound like a gimmick, but it was surprisingly delicious and an experience I won’t forget. Our guide was excellent—friendly, informative, and always focused on everyone’s safety. Transportation was comfortable, and the entire day was well organized. My advice for future visitors: wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, don’t forget sunscreen and a hat, and don’t hesitate to use a horse if you feel you need one. There’s absolutely no shame in it, and it lets you focus on enjoying an incredible natural wonder. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Guatemala. It’s an adventure that’s both challenging and incredibly rewarding.