Pacaya Volcano: Horseback Ride, Lava Pizza & Private Chef

Summary

Horseback up Pacaya’s black lava fields with a local chef and rescue horses

You’ll ride calm rescue horses across Pacaya Volcano’s lava fields, stop for drinks in a local village, then watch your private chef cook pizza over hot volcanic coals. With every step you’ll feel connected to both nature and community—and leave with more than just photos.

What’s the experience like?

We met our guides at the edge of Pacaya Volcano — the horses were already waiting, munching quietly. I’d never been so close to an active volcano before, let alone on horseback. The air smelled faintly smoky, mixed with something earthy from the coffee plants we passed early on. Our guide, Carlos, explained how each horse supports a whole family here. He called mine “Chispa” and gave her a gentle pat. I was nervous at first (it’s been years since I rode), but Chispa just plodded along like she knew the way by heart.

The path wound through black lava beds that crunched under hooves — almost like walking on burnt toast. It felt weirdly quiet except for the wind and the odd bird call. At one point we stopped at a tiny tienda in a village; someone handed me a cold beer and grinned when I tried my broken Spanish. The ride wasn’t rushed — we could go slow or pick up speed if we wanted (I stuck to slow). Carlos pointed out where the last eruption ended three years ago; you could still see steam rising in places.

I didn’t expect lunch to be such a show. There was this table set right on the lava rocks, and our chef started making pizza — yes, actual pizza — over glowing coals from the volcano itself. The crust got this smoky flavor that I still think about. We had Mayan dishes too, all cooked right there while we sipped wine and watched the clouds drift past Pacaya’s peak. Someone joked about “lava delivery.” It was just us, the guides, and these rescued horses looking on hopefully for scraps.

On the way back down, I remember feeling oddly grateful — not just for the food or views but for how everyone seemed to know each other here. Even Chispa seemed proud of herself somehow. It’s hard to explain but if you want a day trip from Antigua or Guatemala City that’s actually different (and helps out both people and animals), this Pacaya Volcano horseback ride is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback ride and lava pizza experience

• Ride horse up Pacaya Volcano
• Gallop through lava beds
• Pass coffee plantations and villages
• Stop at local tienda for beverage
• Visit lava flow from eruption
• Enjoy Mayan cuisine cooked on lava

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Pacaya Volcano horseback ride?

Yes, private transportation is included for this tour.

Can vegetarians or vegans join this Pacaya Volcano tour?

Yes, dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free can be accommodated if you let them know in advance.

How long does it take to get from Antigua or Guatemala City to Pacaya Volcano?

The drive typically takes about 1-1.5 hours from either city.

Are children allowed on this horseback riding tour?

No children under 6 years old are allowed for safety reasons.

Is alcohol served during the tour?

Alcoholic drinks are served only to travelers aged 21 or older; minors get non-alcoholic options.

What kind of food is served on Pacaya Volcano?

A gourmet meal featuring Mayan cuisine and pizza cooked over hot volcanic lava is included.

Who leads the horseback ride at Pacaya Volcano?

The ride is led by INGUAT-certified guides and cowboy guides familiar with the area.

Are the horses well cared for?

Yes—the horses are rescues managed by Horse Rescue of Guatemala; profits help support their care and local families.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from your hotel, calm rescue horses matched to your comfort level, INGUAT-certified guides plus cowboy hosts, stops at local villages (with drinks included), and a gourmet brunch featuring Mayan cuisine and pizza cooked right on hot lava—all before heading back home in comfort.