
Paricutín Volcano
Hike Mexico's youngest volcano, witness a town buried by lava, and explore a landscape forged by fire.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Paricutín Volcano
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike Mexico's youngest volcano, witness a town buried by lava, and explore a landscape forged by fire.
"It is a magical experience, and although it is a steep climb, persistence will help you make it to the top."

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Essential
Sharp lava rocks demand good footwear. Tighten them well for the ascent and be prepared for sand on the way down.
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water and snacks for the long, strenuous hike. The sun can be intense.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Parícutin Volcano Crater
Summit
Hike to the top of Mexico's youngest volcano for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into its fiery past.

Ruins of San Juan Parangaricutiro
Angahuan
Explore the hauntingly beautiful church tower peeking through solidified lava, a stark reminder of the volcano's power.

Lava Fields
Base of the volcano
Trek across the rugged, solidified lava flows, a unique landscape shaped by the volcano's dramatic birth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek Smart: Gear Up for Parícutin
Beyond the Summit: Exploring the Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Essential
Sharp lava rocks demand good footwear. Tighten them well for the ascent and be prepared for sand on the way down.
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water and snacks for the long, strenuous hike. The sun can be intense.
🐴 Horseback to Buried Town
Opt for a horse ride to the ruins of San Juan Parangaricutiro if you're not physically fit for the long walk.
💰 Support Local Families
Tours may seem pricey, but the money often supports local families. Ask about guides like Benito.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Essential
Sharp lava rocks demand good footwear. Tighten them well for the ascent and be prepared for sand on the way down.
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water and snacks for the long, strenuous hike. The sun can be intense.
🐴 Horseback to Buried Town
Opt for a horse ride to the ruins of San Juan Parangaricutiro if you're not physically fit for the long walk.
💰 Support Local Families
Tours may seem pricey, but the money often supports local families. Ask about guides like Benito.
📸 Drone Views are Epic
Capture stunning aerial shots of the volcano and surrounding landscape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Parícutin Volcano as a magical, bucket-list experience with breathtaking views. The challenging hike is considered well worth the effort, though some find it intense. The historical significance of the buried church adds a unique, poignant layer to the adventure.
"Everyone should visit this volcano once in their life. It is a magical experience, and although it is a steep climb, persistence will help you make it to the top.
Getting down is super fun!"
Lisa Cortes
"Amazing experience, also walkable from the cabañas. We started at 7:30 in the morning and finished ad 4:30 incl pictures, lunchbreak etc.
Gave just three stars because the friendly guy who sells the entry tickets cheated us. We paid 35 pesos and he had no more bolletos to give us out. Later we found one on the way, and surprise it cost 20 pesos."
Jacqueline V
"Awesome spot to check off the bucket list! You have to take some hiking shoes. Invest in some if you don't have any. The rocks are very sharp and you need to be careful. The hike is pretty intense and steep for the average person. I'm not used to that type of climb but was beautiful and well worth it. The views are amazing. It has some spots where you can see some steam coming out of the rocks."
Hector Espinoza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parícutin Volcano is located in Michoacán, Mexico. The most common access point is through the town of Angahuan. From Uruapan, you can hire a taxi or arrange transportation to Angahuan. Some visitors opt for guided tours that include transportation from nearby cities.
Yes, you can visit independently, but hiring a local guide in Angahuan is highly recommended for safety and to learn about the volcano's history. They can also arrange horseback riding.
The most direct way to the summit is by hiking. Local guides can advise on the best routes, though some shortcuts across lava fields are not recommended.
You can drive to the town of Angahuan, which serves as a base for visiting the volcano. The final approach to the volcano itself is typically on foot or horseback.
Public buses run to Uruapan, and from there, you would need to arrange local transport like a taxi or shared van to Angahuan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a formal ticket booth for the volcano itself. However, local guides and horseback riding services in Angahuan will have associated costs. It's advisable to clarify prices beforehand.
Parícutin Volcano can be visited during daylight hours. It's best to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday sun and allow ample time for the trek.
There isn't a specific entrance fee for the ruins, but donations to the local community or guides are appreciated.
While you can arrange tours in advance, many visitors book guides upon arrival in Angahuan. This allows for more flexibility and direct negotiation.
Visitors are generally allowed to walk around the crater rim. Always follow the guidance of your local guide for safety.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to the summit and back can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, depending on your fitness level and the route taken. It's a full-day activity.
The hike is considered strenuous and steep, especially on the loose volcanic rock. Prior exercise is recommended.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip. Comfortable athletic clothing is also recommended. A hat and sunscreen are essential for sun protection.
Yes, some visitors have reported seeing steam vents, indicating geothermal activity within the volcano.
The volcano is dormant, making it safe to hike. However, the terrain is challenging, and it's crucial to wear appropriate gear and stay on marked paths or with a guide.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are limited directly at the volcano. In Angahuan, you can find local eateries offering traditional Michoacán cuisine. Some TikTok videos show delicious local breakfast options.
Expect authentic regional dishes, including quesadillas, chuscutas (a type of tortilla dish), and other local specialties.
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks, as options can be scarce, especially during the hike.
One Instagram reel showcased a cocktail inspired by the volcano, featuring mezcal and local ingredients, highlighting the cultural connection.
Local restaurants generally follow typical Mexican meal times, with lunch being the main meal of the day. Breakfast is also commonly available.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers panoramic views, the ruins of San Juan Parangaricutiro provide dramatic shots, and the vast lava fields create unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, drone footage captures incredible perspectives of the volcano and its surroundings. Many impressive aerial shots are available on Instagram.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide dramatic shadows and softer illumination, ideal for capturing the volcanic landscape.
Focus on the contrast between the stark lava rock and the sky, the textures of the solidified lava, the iconic church tower, and the vastness of the volcanic cone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details from a distance. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you plan to hike, ensure children are well-prepared with appropriate footwear, plenty of water, and snacks. The experience of seeing the volcano and the buried church can be educational and awe-inspiring, but it's essential to manage expectations regarding the physical demands. Local guides can often tailor experiences to be more family-friendly.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and water to save on expenses. The experience itself is the main attraction, and the stunning natural scenery and historical significance provide immense value without a high price tag. Consider sharing transportation costs if traveling with others.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aerial photography with drones is highly recommended to capture the scale and grandeur of the volcano and its surroundings. The changing light throughout the day can create stunning effects, so consider visiting during the golden hours for the best shots. Don't forget to capture the details of the volcanic rock and the vastness of the crater.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Birth of Parícutin: A Volcanic Phenomenon
The eruption was a significant event, transforming the landscape and the lives of the local communities. It provided scientists with an unprecedented opportunity to study the entire lifecycle of a cinder-cone volcano from its inception. The continuous activity and the sheer volume of ejected material made it a powerful display of nature's force.
Today, Parícutin is dormant, but its presence is a constant reminder of the dynamic geological forces at play in the region. Visitors can hike its slopes and witness firsthand the aftermath of this incredible natural event, making it a truly unique destination for those interested in geology and natural history.
Exploring the Buried Past: San Juan Parangaricutiro
Visiting the ruins offers a somber yet fascinating glimpse into the past. The stark contrast between the ancient stone structures and the surrounding black lava fields is visually striking. Many visitors describe it as a surreal and moving experience, akin to visiting a Mexican Pompeii.
While the hike to the volcano's summit is a primary draw, many travelers also make time to visit the buried church. For those who find the walk challenging, horseback riding to the ruins is a popular and recommended alternative, allowing everyone to witness this significant historical site.
The Parícutin Trek: What to Expect
As you ascend, the landscape transforms, offering increasingly dramatic vistas of the surrounding Michoacán countryside. You might even spot steam vents along the way, a sign of the volcano's residual heat. Reaching the crater rim is a significant accomplishment, offering a unique perspective of the volcano's caldera.
On the descent, be prepared for lava sand to get into your shoes and socks, a common experience for hikers. Many visitors recommend this hike as a must-do, emphasizing the sheer beauty and the sense of accomplishment.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit