Pacaya (Guatemala)

Pacaya, one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes, has been erupting persistently since 1965, with frequent lava flows and ash plumes. Located just 30 km from Guatemala City, this 2,552-meter stratovolcano poses a constant threat to nearby communities, yet its dramatic eruptions attract adventurous tourists. Its 2010 eruption caused widespread ashfall, disrupting air traffic. Pacaya’s accessibility allows scientists to study its Strombolian explosions up close, offering insights into volcanic behavior. A symbol of nature’s raw power, it blends danger and allure against the backdrop of Guatemala’s highlands.