SafePlants

Pacaya Volcano: A Guatemalan Landmark

Pacaya is an active complex volcano in Guatemala, known for its frequent eruptions and accessibility to visitors.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions the overpowering scent of horse manure along the trails, which might be unpleasant or even tempting for some pets to ingest.

Considerations for Children

• The climb is considered relatively easy at 1.5 hours, but could still be tiring for younger children.
• The presence of volcanic activity, including molten lava and ash plumes, poses potential risks.

Common Names

• Pacaya (commonly refers to the Pacaya Volcano)

Distribution and Habitat

• Located in Guatemala, approximately 25 km south of Guatemala City.
• Just 24 miles from Antigua and south of the Amatitlan Caldera.
• Part of the Central American Volcanic Arc.

Ecological Role

• Pacaya provides a National Park where mild to moderate eruptive activity can be observed.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A 2,552 m high volcanic complex.
• Consisting of an older stratovolcano with domes, flows, and tephra, and a younger basaltic structure.

Volcanic Activity

• First erupted approximately 23,000 years ago and has erupted at least 23 times since 1565.
• Current active phase began in 1965, with almost constant eruptions since then.
• Activity includes strombolian eruptions, bomb-laden explosions, and extra-crater lava flows.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Thousands of people visit the Pacaya National Park to observe volcanic activity.

Quirky Facts

• Marshmallows can be roasted in the heat of the Pacaya Volcano.
• The Lava Store on top of Pacaya Volcano makes jewelry from lava ash.

Further Information

• Information about the Pacaya Volcano can be found on TripAdvisor.
• Details about the Parque Nacional &quotVolcn de Pacaya y Laguna de Calderas" can be found on its official website.