Dad's visit

My dad came to visit over Christmas. We had been hoping to visit Central America together for some time. While he was here, we climbed Pacaya Volcano together. This is one of three live volcanoes in Guatemala. Though my Dad would have preferred a slower pace, I do admire his gumption to get to the top. This picture shows the guided tourist group we were with heading to the top.

Part of the climb was a steep grade through loose and sharp lava rock. The tourists came with sturdy boots. The local women wore sandles and brought their kids (and didn't bring water.) These are some tough people.

This is the lava flow at the top where the smoke and steam exit. Definitely must check that out...

This is a view into the cauldron at the top. The bright orange color of the lava inside did not come out so well in this photo. Incredible experience! It was hot right Dad?

This is my Dad standing at the edge of the crater.

This is sunset on the volcano. That is Fuego Volcano erupting on the left. As it got darker, the top glowed orange like the Mountains of Mordor. At least 7 volcanoes can be seen in this photo. We were really lucky to get such a clear evening view of the volcanoes. Usually it is covered in clouds. The rest of the decent was done in the dark. My Dad and I've blundered through a few mountain decents without light so we had come prepared with flashlights this time.