Volcán Pacaya

Going up the active volcano is quite easy and you will find dozens of travel agents who will be very happy to sell you tickets for a Pacaya-trip that normally costs between Q60–75, depending on your bargaining skills. This includes a bus-shuttle to and from Pacaya. Once there, foreigners must pay an extra Q50 for the park entrance. Going there without a tour is likely more expensive since you can only enter the area with a guide which by park rules charges an additional Q200 per group (up to 12 people.) As of early 2016, there is no hot lava left from the 2010 eruption but you can still roast marshmellows over vents and see the cold lava. Pacaya is an active volcano. You cannot get to the crater (you just get close), but there are some amazing views. The hike is not too hard except for the last 100 meters or so that go over very loose lava rocks. This hike can be strenuous and people who are not in good physical condition should give it carefully consideration (horses are also available for Q100 each way). If you go in the afternoon, be prepared to descend in the dark. It takes approximately an hour and a half up and 45 minutes down the mountain. There are a couple of kiosks at the bottom of this hike that offer cold beer.

• outdoors