Today, the 112th day of this world trotting adventure, we make landfall in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala. This in Central American country is bordered to the north and west by Mexico, to the northeast by Belize, to the east by Honduras, and to the southeast by El Salvador. It is home to 37 volcanoes, four of them active: Pacaya, Santiaguito, Fuego, and Tacaná. Today, Dan left early to hike the Pacaya volcano while Sue browsed the local souvenirs and native wares at the “cruise port village”. She bargained with the local merchants and scored several bars of local chocolate (gifts) as well as locally produced bags. She also obtained Guatemala stamps for our passports all while braving the stifling heat and humidity.
Dan met his tour and made the 1 hour drive to the Pacaya National Park to begin the 3.8 mile hike. The trail begins at an altitude of 6,206 ft and peaks at 7,537 ft near the cone. This 1,331 ft elevation change takes place in a distance of just over 1.7 miles (today’s hike was 3.8 miles up and down). This is a steep climb over very uneven ground and horses (with attendants) are available for rent along the trail to assist those that find it is just a little too much of an effort. Dan did not need a horse. It is mandatory to use local certified guides for this hike, and we met ours at the trailhead. After a quick safety briefing, we started the steep climb, stopping frequently for explanation of the local geology and history. We also had some canine friends that followed along. It was an excellent trail and park. Highly recommended.
Pacaya is an active complex volcano which first erupted approximately 23,000 years ago and has erupted at least 23 times since the Spanish conquest of Guatemala. It rises to an elevation of 2,552 metres (8,373 ft). After being dormant for over 70 years, it began erupting vigorously in 1961 and has been erupting frequently since then. The last eruption occurred in March 2021. The decent is through a deep ash field and your boots will fill as you navigate the calf deep remnants of the eruptions. It was a worthwhile day.
