Our Volcanic Activity
Today we took a break from what seemed to be a 9 - 5 routine, with this clinical experience being unlike any other. We are physically and mentally exhausted, but that didn't stop this determined group of women from climbing an active volcano on our day off. Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes, with only 3 being active. We climbed the Pacaya Volcano, which is one of the active ones. It had streams of lava flowing at the top, and from an eruption four weeks ago, hot pockets of air in the solid lava flows.
Getting out of the van at the volcano site was chaos -- lots of vendors around trying to get us to rent walking sticks, rent horses, or buy food & drinks. They pretty much ambushed the van right when we got there. It was a little intimidating. Getting out, we all scurried to a meeting place where we met with our guide, Ronaldo.
With 3 people on horses and the rest of us walking, we started up what felt like a 30 degree angle climb. We had multiple stops for pictures and to catch our breath, and about an hour and a half later, we made it to our destination.
From the top we could see Fuego (Fire - the volcano that erupted in June), and two others close to it -- Agua and Acatenango, which are not active. As we climbed down to the base, it was a little unnerving looking up at the volcano and seeing lava coming out and rocks falling as we roasted marshmallows. YES, we roasted marshmallows in the few hot pockets left from an earlier eruption. Who would have thought this would be possible?
It feels weird standing on something that could cause so much damage and destroy so much, to experience something as unique and fun as roasting marshmallows on the cooling lava of a volcano. The experience is something I will never forget! Good views, good company and amazing memories. -- Alexandria
(Editor's note: For those of you wondering if we've lost our minds, we were led by experienced guides who know the area well and kept us away from danger.)
Volcano-roasted marshmallows. Yum!
Our Group, plus Dr. Elry and our two translators
In the distance, Volcanos Agua, Acatenango & Fuego
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