PACAYA HORSEBACK RIDE TOUR FROM ANTIGUA GUATEMALA
About this tour
Pacaya Volcano Horseback Ride: The Easy Way to Conquer Guatemala's Most Iconic Volcano
Want to experience the wonder of Guatemala's most iconic active volcano — without breaking a sweat? The Pacaya Volcano horseback ride from Antigua Guatemala is your golden ticket. Skip the strenuous hike, hop on a friendly local horse, and let your four-legged guide carry you all the way up to breathtaking views, marshmallows roasted over volcanic heat, and panoramas of Guatemala's most impressive volcanoes. Whether you're traveling with older parents, kids, or you just prefer your adventure a little more relaxed, this tour was designed with you in mind.
A Calm, Relaxed Ride — Not an Adrenaline Rush
Let's be clear about what this experience is (and isn't): this is a gentle, calm uphill horseback ride, not a fast gallop or an adrenaline-filled cabalgata. Your horse is guided by an experienced local cowboy every step of the way, and the pace is slow, steady, and safe. You'll ride along the same scenic trail that hikers use — through pine forests, volcanic ash fields, and ancient lava rock formations — but you'll enjoy every view without exhausting your legs. It's the smartest, easiest way to see Pacaya.
Ride Alongside Hikers on the Iconic Trail
Here's something important to know: on the way up, horseback riders and hikers share the same trail and typically travel together as one group. It's a friendly, social atmosphere — you'll chat with fellow travelers, take group photos, and reach the summit around the same time. Your certified local guide leads the way, sharing the history, geology, and stories of Pacaya's dramatic volcanic landscape.
Roast Marshmallows Over Volcanic Heat
At the top, you'll enjoy 20–30 minutes of free time to explore, take photos, and — the coolest part — roast marshmallows over natural volcanic heat vents emerging from ancient lava rocks. It's an experience unique to Pacaya and one of the most unforgettable moments of any Guatemala trip.
Panoramic Views of 4 Volcanoes
On clear days, you'll be treated to jaw-dropping views of four spectacular volcanoes: Pacaya itself, plus Agua, Acatenango, and the ever-active Fuego (with luck, you might catch it erupting in the distance!). Camera lovers, get ready — this is one of the most photogenic spots in all of Central America.
Two Schedules: Morning or Afternoon Sunset
Choose what fits your trip:
🌅 Morning Tour (6:00 AM)
Cooler temperatures, clearer panoramic views, and back in Antigua before lunch.
🌇 Afternoon Tour (2:00 PM)
Magical golden-hour light, sunset from the summit, and stargazing on clear evenings.
Perfect for Families, Kids & Non-Hikers
Riders as young as 5 years old can join. Kids especially love this option — often it's the highlight of their trip. It's also ideal for travelers who want to experience Pacaya but aren't up for the classic hike due to fitness, age, or simple preference.
Book Your Pacaya Horseback Ride Today
This is one of the most memorable and accessible things to do in Antigua Guatemala — and one of the smartest ways to enjoy Pacaya without the strenuous hike
What's included
- ✓Hotel/Airbnb pickup
- ✓Round-trip shared collective transportation from Antigua Guatemala
- ✓Certified local guide (English & Spanish)
- ✓1 Horse
- ✓Personal cowboy guide for your horse
- ✓Gentle uphill horseback ride to the summit
- ✓20–30 minutes of free time at the summit
- ✓Marshmallow roasting over volcanic heat vents (if rocks are hot enough)
What's not included
- ✗Pacaya Volcano entrance fee: Q100 (~$15 USD) per foreigner (Q30 for Guatemalans with valid DPI) — paid in cash on-site
- ✗Gratuities
- ✗Meals and drinks
- ✗Hotel pickup for accommodations outside central Antigua (meeting point is Tanque de la Unión in that case)
- ✗Travel insurance
Itinerary
- Day 06:00 AM Group
- Day 02:00 PM Group
Frequently asked questions
- Is this a fast, adrenaline horseback ride?
No. This is a calm, gentle uphill horseback ride, not a fast gallop or adrenaline-based cabalgata. Your horse is guided by an experienced local cowboy the whole time, and the pace is slow and safe.
- Do I need horseback riding experience?
Not at all. The tour is perfect for total beginners. Each rider has a personal cowboy leading the horse, so no skills are required.
- Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes! Riders as young as 5 years old are welcome, and kids often love it more than the adults. It's especially great for families where some members want to hike and others prefer to ride.
- Do I have to get off the horse at any point?
You can stay on your horse for the entire ascent and descent. You only need to dismount to explore the summit, take photos, and roast marshmallows.
- What happens if it rains?
The tour operates in most weather conditions; bring a waterproof jacket if the forecast looks wet. In case of severe weather, your guide may adjust the route or timing for safety.
Traveler reviews4.7/5 (13 reviews)
Affordable, able to accommodate a large group (9 people), pick up from Airbnb in Antigua included, horses were in good health.
We had a wonderful time. The guides and the horses were great and so kind with all my kids. Thanks for the great time.