the air , taken 11/72, with the volcanic complex dominating the skyline. The easiest and most secure way to visit Pacaya is to go with a licensed tour operator, of which there are numerous in Antigua taking groups to visit Pacaya every day for around $15 per person. Not a bad deal. Of all these operators, we recommend most highly Sergio Garcia of Eco-Tour Chejo's (contact information at the end of this webpage). Or, if you have your own transportation and an adventurous spirit, you can go on your own. To reach Pacaya, head south from Guatemala City, on the highway to Esquintla, but turn off on the road to the town of San Vicente Pacaya and Pacaya Volcano National Park before reaching the town of Paln. Watch carefully for the sign...it's not very prominent. The road up the mountain to San Vicente was paved in 2001. But from where the entrada to San Vicente forks off down to the left the road continuing straight on up through the village of Cedros to the hamlet of San Francisco de Sales and Pacaya Volcano is dirt. It is rough, but passable all year round, unless blocked by a landslide or mudflow. There are two trails up Pacaya Volcano. The more gentle trail, followed by most of the tour groups from Antigua, starts at San Francisco de Sales. Here is the official entrance to the park, and where you need to stop to pay admission (Q25 for foreign visitors in 2001). The