Tours & experiences

Experience Pacaya Volcano Trek by Horseback Riding

About this experience

Ever ridden a horse up an active volcano?? This unique adventure combines nature and exploration. Ascend to 2550 meters along ash trails and hardened lava, where breathtaking views of the valleys and three surrounding volcanoes unfold. Suitable for all skill levels, the horses are well-trained and the guides ensure comfort throughout the journey.

After reaching the upper slopes, dismount to traverse the lava fields, engaging with the volcanic landscape up close. We roast marshmallows and make S'mores in an oven made of lava rocks.

OPTIONAL add-on: We ride down to the nearby village, tie up our horses 'Wild West style' outside of a tienda, and enjoy a well-deserved cold beer with locals. Experienced riders have the opportunity to trot/canter in a nearby open field. This additional option is HIGHLY recommended, a really cool way to see a bit of REAL Guatemala.

This tour has a 2 person minimum! If you are a solo traveler we can try to add you to another tour.

At a glance

  • Duration: 6 hr

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Pacaya Volcano Trek on Horseback. Once in a Lifetime Experience
Pickup included

Plan your experience

Time on the tour6 hr
Getting therePickup offeredSee pickup details
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide), Spanish (live guide)

Set aside 6 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Before you go

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What is included

  • Private transportation
  • At the summit we make FRESH guacamole
  • Bottled water
  • Volcano Guide
  • Horse Rental & Cowboy
  • Entrance to the volcano is included in the tour price

Not included

  • Optional pizza cooked in lava oven is optional.
  • Alcohol is not included but it is allowed, of course drink responsibly.
  • Gratuity for guides is optional, and VERY much apprecited

Itinerary and highlights

Your experience begins with pickup in Antigua Guatemala, followed by a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside toward the base of Pacaya Volcano.

Once you arrive, you’ll meet the local horse handlers and get paired with your horse for the ride up the volcano. After a short introduction, the guide will lead the group up volcanic trails made of ash and hardened lava as you climb the slopes of one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes.

As you gain elevation, the views open up across the surrounding valleys and neighboring volcanoes. The guide will explain the history and facts of the volcano and its recent eruptions.

Near the upper slopes, you’ll dismount to explore the lava fields on foot. We roast marshmallows and make S'Mores in a oven made from the lava rocks and natural heat from the volcano.

After descending, you’ll return to the vehicle and head back to Antigua Guatemala.

See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.

Meeting and pickup information

  • We will confirm pick-up location upon confirmation. We pick up anywhere within Antigua. * Dates associated with Semana Santa (Easter Week) or other events that majorly affect traffic within the city, pickup location is subject to change.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Guatemala Underground Tours

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 6 hr.
What are the pickup arrangements?
We will confirm pick-up location upon confirmation. We pick up anywhere within Antigua.

* Dates associated with Semana Santa (Easter Week) or other events that majorly affect traffic within the city, pickup location is subject to change.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Youth tickets: age 5–17; Adult tickets: age 18+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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