Pacaya Tours by Turisteando

Pacaya Private Tour From Guatemala City

Your own driver and guide from Guatemala City: hike Pacaya at your pace, cross the petrified lava and roast marshmallows where the ground is still warm.

Tripadvisor rating4.7
Google rating4.8
Three hikers with walking sticks in front of the Pacaya Volcano cone
  • Friends posing in front of the Pacaya Volcano cone on a misty morning
  • Family with walking sticks on a Pacaya Volcano slope, the valley behind them
  • Marshmallow on a stick being roasted over Pacaya’s volcanic rocks
  • Private vehicle with hotel or Airbnb pickup
  • Your own guide, at your own pace
  • Roast marshmallows on warm lava rocks
  • Walk across rivers of petrified lava
  • Free cancellation up to 48 h before

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100% refund guaranteed when you cancel 48 hours before the tour

GET TO KNOW THE TOUR

What is the Pacaya Private Tour from Guatemala City?

The Pacaya Private Tour from Guatemala City is a trip to an active volcano with your own driver and guide, who pick you up at your lodging in the city’s hotel zone between 6:00 AM and 12:00 PM. You set the pace through forest and lava fields. At the top you roast marshmallows over heat rising from the rocks.

What’s Included?

Experience the ultimate comfort and flexibility on your Pacaya Private Tour from Guatemala City , complete with all the essentials to make your adventure seamless and enjoyable.

  • Private Round-Trip Transportation – Travel in comfort with a private driver who knows the route, and a private vehicle with air-conditioned.
  • Pickup & Drop-off Service – Available from hotels or Airbnbs in Zones 1, 4, 9, 10, 13, 14, and select Mixco areas.
  • Certified Bilingual Guide – Accompanied by a local guide certified by the Guatemalan Government, offering expert insight and assistance throughout the tour.
  • Roast Marshmallows at the Volcano – Enjoy this fun and iconic experience if the volcanic rocks are hot enough.

What’s Not Included

Please note that the following items are not included in the Pacaya Private Tour from Guatemala City:

  • Volcano Entrance Fee – Q100 per foreign visitor or Q30 for Guatemalans (must present DPI or Passport).
  • Food & Meals – Lunch or additional meals are not included unless specified.
  • Alcoholic Beverages – Drinks other than bottled water are not part of the package.
  • Gratuities (Tips) – Optional but appreciated for your guide and driver.
  • Optional Horse Rental – Available at the volcano for approximately US$40, ideal for those who prefer not to hike.

What to Bring for Your Pacaya Private Tour

To make the most of your Pacaya Volcano Private Tour from Guatemala City , we recommend bringing the following essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:

  • Cap or Hat – Protect yourself from the sun during the hike.
  • Cash – Required to pay the volcano entrance fee (Q100 for foreigners / Q30 for Guatemalans) and any optional services.
  • Sun Protection – Sunscreen and sunglasses to shield from UV rays.
  • Water – Bring at least 1 liter of pure water to stay hydrated.
  • Snacks – Light snacks for energy during the climb.
  • Comfortable Footwear – Tennis shoes or hiking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Sports Clothing – Breathable and comfortable clothes ideal for hiking.
  • Sweat Towel – To stay fresh during your hike.
  • Waterproof Jacket or Coat – Recommended during the rainy season or winter months. (May – Oct)
  • Flashlight – Handy if hiking during early morning or evening hours.
  • Positive Energy & a Big Smile – The best way to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Schedule

  • Monday: Between 06:00 AM and 12:00 PM (Local Time)
  • Tuesday: Between 06:00 AM and 12:00 PM (Local Time)
  • Wednesday: Between 06:00 AM and 12:00 PM (Local Time)
  • Thursday: Between 06:00 AM and 12:00 PM (Local Time)
  • Friday: Between 06:00 AM and 12:00 PM (Local Time)
  • Saturday: Between 06:00 AM and 12:00 PM (Local Time)
  • Sunday: Between 06:00 AM and 12:00 PM (Local Time)

About the tour

WhatsApp Us!

Pacaya Volcano is a popular choice for adventurous travelers due to its easy access and the unique opportunity to witness volcanic landscapes up close.

Your experience begins with a comfortable hotel pickup in Guatemala City and a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive to Pacaya Volcano, one of the most active and easiest volcanoes to visit in Central America. This private Pacaya Volcano tour offers a unique opportunity to get close to petrified lava flows, feel the natural warmth coming from the ground, and even roast marshmallows on hot volcanic rocks. For a special treat, you can try volcanic pizza cooked on naturally heated surfaces – or, if you prefer a more comfortable climb, you can choose to ride a horse for part of the way (available for an additional $40).

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this private Pacaya Volcano tour from Guatemala City offers the perfect combination of nature and adventure, with the flexibility of a private guide, personalized pace, and round-trip transportation directly from your hotel or Airbnb

Why should you book this tour?

You should book this Pacaya Private Tour if you prefer a personalized and flexible experience. With a private guide, you can hike at your own pace – whether you want to take it slow and enjoy the views or move faster to reach the summit sooner. You’ll also have the freedom to choose between completing the full hike or taking shorter routes based on your comfort level. This private tour is perfect for families with children, couples, or groups of friends who want to enjoy the adventure their own way without the pressure of keeping up with a larger group.

Visiting Pacaya Volcano from Guatemala City can be difficult, especially since public transportation is limited and only a few tours operate from the capital. That’s why our service is designed to be simple and stress-free. We provide hotel or Airbnb pickup in Guatemala City (zones 1, 4, 9, 10, 13, or 14) and take you directly to the volcano in a private, comfortable vehicle. After the hike, your private driver will be waiting to bring you back comfortably to your accommodation. No hassle, no uncertainty, just a smooth and worry-free experience from start to finish.

Choosing our Pacaya Volcano private tour also means enjoying:

  • Flexible timing , allowing you to start your tour when it works best for your schedule.
  • More privacy and comfort , without rushing or waiting for others.
  • A memorable volcanic experience , including the chance to roast marshmallows on warm volcanic rocks.

If you’re looking for a convenient, reliable, and memorable experience, this is one of the best private Pacaya tours from Guatemala City and one of the easiest ways to visit Pacaya without stress.

HIGHLIGHTS

Private Pacaya Volcano Adventure – Enjoy a fully private experience with a dedicated guide at your own pace.

Roast Marshmallows on Lava Rocks – Get up close to volcanic heat and roast marshmallows over warm lava stones for a truly unique experience.

Optional Horse Ride – Skip the hike and ride up the volcano for an additional US$40 per horse – perfect for a relaxed experience.

Volcanic Pizza Experience – Savor delicious pizza cooked using volcanic heat (available for an additional fee of US$55 per big pizza of 8 slices).

Hotel Pickup & Drop-off – Enjoy convenient round-trip private transportation from your hotel or Airbnb in Guatemala City.

Additional Information

  • Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible due to the natural volcanic terrain
  • Service animals are allowed with prior notice
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, heart problems, poor cardiovascular health, or during pregnancy
  • A moderate level of physical fitness is required for the hike
  • Dress comfortably and bring a waterproof jacket during the rainy season (May – Oct)
  • This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, for a more personalized adventure

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Pacaya Private Tour take?

The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours , including round-trip transportation from Guatemala City, the hike, and exploration time at the volcano.

How difficult is the Pacaya Volcano hike?

The hike is moderate and suitable for most travelers with average fitness levels. The trail is steady, and there’s an option to rent a horse (US$40 per horse) if you prefer not to walk.

What should I wear for the tour?

We recommend comfortable hiking shoes , sportswear , and a hat . Bring a waterproof jacket during the rainy season (May - Oct) and sunscreen for sunny days.

Is food included?

Meals and snacks are not included . You can bring your own snacks or purchase food locally.

Can children join the tour?

Yes! Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult . The private format makes it ideal for families.

Is the tour safe?

Yes. The tour is led by a certified bilingual guide and uses government-authorized private transportation , ensuring your safety throughout. However, Pacaya is an active volcano, but it hasn’t had a major eruption in many years. It’s monitored daily by government geological agencies, and tours operate only under safe conditions. As with any active volcano, a small natural risk always exists.

What is the volcano entrance fee?

The entrance fee is Q100 per foreign visitor or Q30 for Guatemalans , payable only in cash at the park entrance.

Can I still go if I have limited mobility?

The terrain is uneven and not wheelchair accessible. However, you can choose the horseback option for a more relaxed experience.

What happens if it rains?

The tour operates in most weather conditions . If weather conditions make it unsafe, you’ll have the option to reschedule for a future date.

What if I have health issues?

The tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or during pregnancy .

How close can we get to the lava?

Pacaya is home to impressive rivers of petrified lava from past eruptions. You can walk across these volcanic rock fields, take amazing photos, and even roast marshmallows over warm spots. There are no active lava flows at this time.

Can I book last-minute?

Yes, last-minute bookings are accepted if availability allows - it’s best to confirm at least a day in advance.

Is volcanic pizza really available?

Yes! You can try a volcanic pizza cooked on hot lava stones - it’s an optional experience available for an additional fee.

What’s the Pacaya Volcano Hike Distance?

The hike to Pacaya Volcano typically covers a round-trip distance of about 3 to 4 miles (approximately 5 to 6.5 kilometers). The trail starts at the base of the volcano, and the ascent usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the pace and the number of breaks you take. The descent generally takes less time.

What travelers say about Pacaya Tours

Turisteando rating4.885 reviews
5 75
4 5
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How are these reviews collected?

We invite travelers by email after their tour. Each review appears as it was written and in its original language, whatever the rating. A low rating is never a reason to remove one.

Leo O.

July 10, 2026

Turisteando

The tour was great, punctual and the guide was excellent. However, I recommend informing the horse handlers that we don’t require their services so they don’t follow us and rush us to climb up, which could make us tired.

Pacaya Private Tour From Guatemala City

Duy T.

November 6, 2026

Turisteando

Tour was awesome. We booked the 2 pm so we could catch the he sunset. Incredible views. We can’t praise our guides enough. Super friendly and informative. Highly recommend!!!

Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala, November 2026Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala, November 2026Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala, November 2026Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala, November 2026Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala, November 2026

Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala

Denisse R.

November 1, 2026

Turisteando

Excelente lugar, pizza increíble y un gran día.

Make & Eat Pizza at Pacaya Volcano Private Tour

Michelle M.

October 25, 2026

Turisteando

The Paacaya Volcano Tour was AMAZING!! - What a great adventure. The Payca Tours Group was super professional. They picked up at my airbnb on Time and their drivers and guides were fun and took great care of us. Met some great people, had a great hike of a stunning volcano!! Note to all - Though I am in great shape - A walking stick helped on both the ascent, but also the descent!! Highly recommend using one.

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Deborah C.

October 22, 2026

Turisteando

Highlight of our trip!

Make & Eat Pizza at Pacaya Volcano Private Tour

Paula C.

October 20, 2026

Turisteando

Alan was an exceptional guide, super knowledgeable and patient. So was Luis and his fellow horse guide . My mom was dealing with a broken arm and they were so kind in helping her navigate riding. Luis was so Knowleadgable about Guatemalan histories. Ivan our driver was a real treat. Joanna on the pizza was so kind and fun (plus her dogs were so polite). We never felt rushed like some other reviews mentioned. Would book this again in a heartbeat!

Pacaya Private Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Maxwell V.

October 17, 2026

Turisteando

Awesome experience! Great people and guides :)

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Doris R.

October 15, 2026

Turisteando

Amo hacer senderismo y este fue mi primer volcán! Muy agradecida con los guias, no recuerdo el nombre de la chica pero siempre estuvo pendiente de no dejar a nadie atrás.

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Cathy M.

October 15, 2026

Turisteando

We were picked up and travelled about 10 minutes before stopping for coffee and bakery. No need to have breakfast before. Too many horses. Had one infront and one breathing over my shoulder and then dogs walking in between. A trip hazard. Besides that great guides and a beautiful way to spend a morning in Guatemala

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Kiara R.

October 14, 2026

Turisteando

The guides were really nice and informative and the horse were great. We had an amazing time. Would highly recommend

Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala

Violeta S.

September 21, 2026

Turisteando

The guide was great, I wasn’t feeling well on the way up and he was very caring and keep me calm when I need it.

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Michael J.

September 5, 2026

Turisteando

Loved it, the guides were great and pickup was smooth. My daughter loved the ride up on the horse.

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Susanne B.

September 4, 2026

Turisteando

Everything was on time and the people were very nice. I would have liked, however, a little bit more history and information about the volcano and the surrounding area. I was hoping to get a little bit more from the guides

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Ayna K.

August 30, 2026

Turisteando

Everything was perfect! The tour guide even took us to the pizza Pacaya guy.

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Brian R.

August 28, 2026

Turisteando

all the staff was excellent Lydia was our tour leader. she was so nice and helpful and educaional the horses was super healthy and well behaved. volcano was fantastic

Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala

Giuseppe M.

August 28, 2026

Turisteando

It was so fun and the host Brian was amazing! Highly recommend

Pacaya ATV Tour From Antigua

Dina G.

August 26, 2026

Turisteando

The hike itself way amazing. Loved the views and wish I took the time to really enjoy this walk, unfortunately the men who sell horses were very pushy I had to tell them No many times, and they still pushed. One of the tour guides even jumped in to try and sell a horse. I firmly said no! I do not have money just so they can leave me alone. I felt rushed. I couldn’t even stop and admire nature because everyone was just walking for me that’s not the purpose of a hike. I do not recommend this group tour.

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Elijah B.

August 13, 2026

Turisteando

Guides, made it so fun.

Reply from Pacaya Tours

We're happy to hear the guides made the Pacaya horseback ride such a fun and enjoyable experience.

Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala

Hannah L.

August 12, 2026

Turisteando

Loved our experience and definitely recommend! So much cheaper than any other tour option, and it was exactly what we were looking for. Our guide didn’t know much English, but enough to share a couple facts about the volcano and show us pictures of when it erupted a few years prior. We were the only couple in our tour on horses, so everyone else was hiking right behind us. It was nice to ride at a walking pace, and honestly hiking a horse trail filled with horse poop did not look like fun. I’d definitely recommend using the horses instead. Gorgeous views, and roasting marshmallows felt so whimsical on an active volcano!

Reply from Pacaya Tours

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the peaceful horseback ride at Pacaya Volcano, the beautiful views, and roasting marshmallows on an active volcano.

Pacaya Horseback Ride from Antigua Guatemala

Kelly H.

August 9, 2026

Turisteando

This tour was excellent!! From start to finish, our guide was personable, knowledgeable and let us set the pace that worked for our family (we had 3 kids and a mom with bad knees so we especially appreciated this!). The pizza was delicious. The views and pictures were incredible. We were in Guatemala for 8 days and this was everyone's favorite activity. Just an FYI - the roads to Pacaya are very twisty so if you are prone to car sickness you may want to take a Dramamine beforehand (not at all a negative of the tour - just how the roads are built).

Reply from Pacaya Tours

Thank you so much for sharing such a wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that your whole family enjoyed the Pizza Pacaya experience and that the Pacaya guide made sure everyone could go at a comfortable pace. We’re especially happy to hear the pizza Pacaya, views, and photos became a highlight of your Guatemala trip!

Make & Eat Pizza at Pacaya Volcano Private Tour

Mia D.

July 31, 2026

Turisteando

Bryan, our guide, was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and welcoming. He was so kind to my friends and me, even letting us enjoy an extra-long ATV ride and acting as our personal photographer throughout the experience. He truly went above and beyond to make sure we had an amazing time. I would absolutely come back and book another excursion with him again. 10/10 experience with Bryan—I highly recommend him! The only downside was the driver who picked us up and dropped us off. He wasn’t very friendly, tried to leave one of my friends behind, and attempted to drop us off at a different location than the one we had agreed on. Aside from that, the excursion itself was fantastic thanks to Bryan.

Reply from Pacaya Tours

Thank you so much for your thoughtful review about this Pacaya ATV Tour from Antigua! We're thrilled to hear Bryan made your experience so memorable, he'll be delighted to know how much you appreciated his kindness and enthusiasm. We're sorry to hear about your concerns regarding the transportation. We understand how that may have felt. In this case, your friend arrived more than 20 minutes after the scheduled pickup time. Since this is a shared shuttle, we're unable to delay the departure out of respect for the other guests who arrived on time. We truly appreciate your understanding, and we're glad the tour itself exceeded your expectations!

Pacaya ATV Tour From Antigua

Nicholas M.

July 31, 2026

Turisteando

Absolutely loved our tour! Our tour guide was amazing. Super polite and incredibly informative! He took a lot of time to make sure everyone was comfortable on the ATVs and took a lot of time to educate us on all of the areas around our tour. He was also very patient and willing to wait around a lot while everyone wanted to take tons of photos. Definitely plan on doing the tour again when we come back!

Reply from Pacaya Tours

Thank you so much for your amazing review! We're so happy to hear your guide made you feel comfortable on the Pacaya ATV Tour and took the time to share so much about the Pacaya Volcano. It means a lot to know you enjoyed the experience, and we'd love to welcome you back whenever you're in Guatemala again!

Pacaya ATV Tour From Antigua

Victoria H.

July 30, 2026

Turisteando

We had a great time on the tour! It was a little difficult hike, especially since I had not prepared for it. But our guides checked in on us and gave us breaks as needed! We were also able to roast marshmallows at the top. It was amazing! I would definitely recommend this tour.

Reply from Pacaya Tours

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're glad to hear the guides took great care of you and made sure you could enjoy the hike at a comfortable pace. And yes, roasting marshmallows at pacaya on the volcanic rocks is always a guest favorite! Thanks again for your recommendation, and we're so happy you had an amazing time.

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Angie H.

July 27, 2026

Turisteando

My daughter and I had a great time on our Volcán Pacaya hike. We chose the private hike so that we could pick the time that was most convenient for us and so that we could go at our own pace. Our guide, Alan, was fantastic. He picked us up from our hotel right on time and he was very friendly and knowledgeable. It was a moderate hike and very unique and enjoyable. Roasting marshmallows at the top was fun. I would definitely recommend!

Reply from Pacaya Tours

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that the private Pacaya tour from Antigua gave you the flexibility to enjoy the hike at your own pace. We'll be sure to pass your kind words along to Alan, he'll be happy to know he made your adventure so memorable. Thanks again for your recommendation!

Pacaya Private Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Clinton S.

July 26, 2026

Turisteando

Our tour guide was on time, very knowledgeable, great with our boys, fun to be with and made sure we were all ok the entire time.

Reply from Pacaya Tours

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear your Pacaya guide made the Pacaya adventure enjoyable for the whole family, especially with your boys.

Pacaya Private Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Freddy V.

July 25, 2026

Turisteando

It was a great experience, full of nice pictures

Pacaya ATV Tour From Antigua

Paulina S.

July 20, 2026

Turisteando

Nos encantó el tour! La guías son lo máxico y super atentas. Mi hermano que tiene baja visión se le dificulta hacer este tipo de actividades, pero nuestra guía tuvo muchísima paciencia y comprensión con él. Nuestras guías fueron Johana y Dayana.

Reply from Pacaya Tours

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're glad to hear our guides took great care of you and made sure you could enjoy the hike at a comfortable pace. And yes—roasting marshmallows on the volcanic rocks is always a guest favorite! Thanks again for your recommendation, and we're so happy you had an amazing time.

Pacaya Volcano Local Guide Service Only

Guillermo L.

July 19, 2026

Turisteando

Nice tour with a hike and a gentle ascent. It can be somewhat challenging for people who aren't used to exercising. They stuck to the schedule and met all the planned times. The guide was very attentive to the entire group throughout the tour and made the experience fun and enjoyable for everyone. The place and the views are absolutely incredible.

Reply from Pacaya Tours

Thank you so much for your kind review! We're happy to hear you enjoyed the hike, the incredible views, and that everything ran on schedule. It's also great to know our guide helped make the experience enjoyable for everyone. We truly appreciate you sharing your experience about this Pacaya Volcano hike!

Pacaya Group Tour From Antigua Guatemala

Francini J.

July 19, 2026

Turisteando

Increíbles vistas del volcan de agua, acatenango y del volcan de fuego haciendo erupción. Puedes caminar sobre piedras de lava seca o roca volcánica en las faldas del volcan pacaya y observar las fumarolas. Es mejor el tour en ATV que a pie o caballo, se toma una ruta privada y te acercas más al volcan en la cuatrimoto.

Reply from Pacaya Tours

¡Muchas gracias por compartir tu experiencia! Nos alegra saber que disfrutaste las impresionantes vistas y la oportunidad de recorrer los campos de lava del Volcán Pacaya. Sin duda, el recorrido en Pacaya ATV permite vivir una aventura muy especial. ¡Gracias por recomendarnos!

Pacaya ATV Tour From Antigua

Rafael A.

July 15, 2026

Turisteando

Excelente tour y trato, vale la pena. El día estuvo increíble, siempre resolviendo todo!

Pacaya ATV Tour From Antigua

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