Guatemala

Pacific Coast

Living lava and black sand: Pacaya volcano smoking an hour from the capital, Monterrico’s volcanic beaches with baby-turtle releases, the Chiquimulilla canal mangroves, an African-style safari and the southern coast’s adrenaline.

Places (5)

Auto Safari Chapín
Researched (not yet visited in person) Ticket required

Auto Safari Chapín

Giraffes from your car window — the safari that turns the beach trip into an adventure.

~180 minWith childrenFirst visit
Pacaya Volcano
Researched (not yet visited in person) Ticket required

Pacaya Volcano

Walk on lava and roast marshmallows on a living volcano — an hour from the capital.

~300 minPhotographyFirst visit
Monterrico Beach
Researched (not yet visited in person) Free entry

Monterrico Beach

The black-sand sunset every Guatemalan should see once a year.

~300 minFirst visitAs a couple

Useful traveler info

Pacaya is ~50 km from the capital (local guide required for the hike). Monterrico ~125 km (2–2.5 h). The coastal sun is fierce: sunscreen, water, and sandals — the black sand BURNS at midday. Turtle season: July to December.