Pacaya Volcano and Thermal Pools

Nestled in the lush highlands of Guatemala, the Pacaya Volcano and Thermal Pools tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the country’s natural wonders. Adventurous travelers can witness the active Pacaya Volcano firsthand, exploring its lunar landscapes on horseback. But the experience doesn’t end there – the tour also includes a rejuvenating visit to the nearby Santa Teresita Thermal Spa, where 13 geothermal pools await. With personalized guidance and all-inclusive amenities, this excursion promises to leave visitors both energized and relaxed. Yet, there’s more to discover beyond the volcanic vistas and soothing waters.

Key Points

• The tour offers a 3-hour excursion to the base of the active Pacaya Volcano in Guatemala, accessible via horseback riding for stunning volcano views.
• The tour includes a 2-hour visit to the Santa Teresita Thermal Spa, providing access to 13 thermal pools for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• The tour is highly rated with a 91% recommendation rate and 4.5-star overall score, featuring a private guide and included entrance fees, bottled water, and snacks.
• The tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues or serious medical conditions, as the volcano access is not wheelchair accessible.
• The tour includes a convenient pickup service from Antigua or Guatemala City, with a cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Overview

The tour, titled "Pacaya Volcano and Thermal Pools," is located in Antigua, Guatemala. It has received 11 total reviews, with a stellar 91% recommendation from travelers.

The tour boasts an impressive 4.5-star rating, with 10 five-star reviews and a single one-star review.

Highlights of the tour include horseback riding to enjoy stunning views of one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes without strenuous hiking, a private guide for personalized attention, and a visit to the Santa Teresita Thermal Spa with 13 soothing thermal pools.

Tour Highlights

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity for horseback riding, which allows visitors to experience stunning views of one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes without the need for strenuous climbing. The tour also includes a private guide, ensuring personalized attention and the flexibility to ascend at your own pace. Plus, the experience includes a stop at the Santa Teresita Thermal Spa, where guests can enjoy 13 thermal pools and take advantage of the natural geothermal waters to aid in relaxation and healing.

Tour Highlight	Description
Horseback Riding	Experience stunning volcano views without strenuous climbing
Private Guide	Personalized attention and flexible pacing
Thermal Spa Visit	13 pools of natural geothermal waters for relaxation and healing

Pacaya Volcano

Part of the Ring of Fire, Pacaya Volcano is one of three active volcanoes in Guatemala.

This 3-hour excursion allows visitors to experience stunning views of the volcano without the strenuous climb. Reaching the base of the volcano by horseback, travelers can observe the dynamic landscape and witness volcanic activity from a safe distance.

The tour includes admission fees and provides bottled water and snacks. While not accessible for those with mobility issues, the horseback ride offers a unique perspective of one of Guatemala’s most captivating natural wonders.

Visitors can witness the power and beauty of this geological marvel during their time at Pacaya Volcano.

Santa Teresita Hotel & Spa Termal

After exploring the dramatic landscapes of Pacaya Volcano, the tour includes a visit to the Santa Teresita Hotel & Spa Termal.

Visitors can enjoy the natural geothermal waters of the 13 thermal pools, which aid in relaxation and healing. The facility offers professional staff available for massages and thermal circuits designed for stress relief and circulation improvement.

Guests can spend up to 2 hours taking advantage of the thermal spa benefits, including:

1. Relaxing in the various thermal pools with varying temperatures.
2. Receiving a rejuvenating massage from the on-site professionals.
3. Participating in the thermal circuits for enhanced wellness.

Inclusions

The tour package includes entrance and parking fees to Pacaya Volcano, bottled water and snacks, lunch, and full access to the Santa Teresita Hot Springs Thermal Circuit.

Visitors can enjoy the natural geothermal waters, which are known to aid in relaxation and healing.

Professional staff are available for massages and thermal circuits designed to relieve stress and improve circulation.

The all-inclusive nature of the tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience, allowing travelers to focus on the volcanic landscapes and rejuvenating thermal pools without worrying about additional costs or logistics.

Additional Information

The tour offers pickup service from any hotel or point of interest in Antigua or Guatemala City, allowing for convenient transportation to the starting point.

The tour begins at 9:00 am, ensuring ample time to explore the volcano and thermal pools.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for:

1. Individuals with back problems
2. Pregnant travelers
3. Those with serious medical conditions

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for travelers.

Customer Feedback

Although the Pacaya Volcano and Thermal Pools tour generally received positive reviews, with 91% of travelers recommending it, there was one negative review that highlighted some operational issues.

The lone one-star review reported a missed pickup and problems with the tour operators, leading to a cancellation despite prior payment. In response, the tour company acknowledged the inconvenience and expressed regret over the situation, noting it occurred during a transitional period for the business.

Tour Booking

Booking the Pacaya Volcano and Thermal Pools tour is straightforward, with pickup available from any hotel or point of interest in Antigua or Guatemala City. The tour starts at 9:00 am and lasts approximately 5 hours in total.

Some key considerations for booking this experience include:

1. Accessibility: The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

2. Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

3. Inclusions: The tour price covers entrance and parking fees to Pacaya, bottled water and snacks, lunch, and access to the Santa Teresita Hot Springs Thermal Circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Total Duration of the Tour?

The total duration of the tour is 5 hours, comprising 3 hours for visiting the Pacaya Volcano and 2 hours for the Santa Teresita Thermal Spa experience. The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a provided lunch.

Are There Opportunities for Food or Snack Purchases During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes bottled water and snacks. Lunch is also provided as part of the tour. Travelers can enjoy refreshments and sustenance throughout the experience without needing to purchase additional food or drinks.

Are Guides Available Who Speak Languages Other Than English?

Yes, the tour offers guides who speak multiple languages, including Spanish and English. Travelers can request a guide fluent in their preferred language when booking the experience.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary for Personal Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to personal preferences. Travelers can request modifications to the itinerary, such as adding stops or adjusting the duration at each location, based on their interests and needs.

Are There Any Restrictions or Requirements for the Thermal Pools Visit?

The thermal pools visit has some restrictions. Visitors must be able to enter and exit the pools on their own, and pregnant women or those with serious medical conditions may not be allowed. Swimwear is required.

Recap

The Pacaya Volcano and Thermal Pools tour provides a remarkable blend of adventure and relaxation. Visitors can explore the active volcano via horseback, then unwind in the soothing geothermal pools at the Santa Teresita Thermal Spa. With a private guide, inclusive amenities, and positive customer feedback, this tour offers a seamless experience for travelers seeking both excitement and tranquility in the heart of Guatemala.