He Santiaguito volcanolocated in Quetzaltenangois considered one of the 10 most dangerous volcanoes in the world.
Due to its high explosiveness and unpredictable activity, the Municipality of Quetzaltenango and the Guatemalan Tourism Institute (Inguat) They reaffirmed the definitive prohibition of your ascent.
In 2016, the volcano was declared high -risk area and, since then, several incidents have registered that have endangered the life of tourists and local.
Rony Álvarez, of Management and Risks of the commune of Quetzaltenango, confirmed that since late 2024 The total prohibition to the volcanic complex was resolved, thus expanding a restriction that already existed since 2016.
Although the order not to upload the volcano was set a few months ago, it has been news again because the Saturday night February 15, 2025 A group of more than 160 people who tried to make their rise were intercepted.
The National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (Conred) He confirmed that they were led by an operator tour.
Despite the efforts to obtain additional information from the operation and actions against the tourist operator, at the close of this note, no response was obtained from any of the entities to the follow -up questions sent.
INGUAT director statements
“Ascending the Santiaguito volcano can be a feat, but it is an irresponsible act”said Harris Whitbeck, director of Inguat in a recent video.
“The safety of tourists is in the hands of the operating tours, so I call them to act with responsibility and Refrain from offering activities that put their customers at risk“He complemented.
The alert is also aimed at travelers ‘lovers of adventure’ to think about their safety.
“If an offer seems dangerous, it is because it is”Whitbeck advised.
“Your life is priceless,” He reaffirmed, so he asked tourists to inform themselves in a timely manner and choose operators who are registered and thus guarantee a safe trip.
“Do not stop visiting Guatemala and All the wonderful ones offeredbut do it responsible, “Whitbeck concluded.