The Santiaguito volcano — one of Latin America’s most dangerous volcanoes — erupted in Guatemala on April 20, spewing smoke into the air and forcing tourists to scurry for safety. The tourists were trekking up the volcano – known for its frequent eruptions – when falling debris forced them to turn back.
Footage capturing the terrifying moment shows thick clouds of ash billowing skyward as the group hurtled down El Paso de la Muerte — ominously nicknamed “The Trail of Death,” according to Storyful.
The video was shot by Carlos Enrique Porres Rodas, who described Volcán Santiaguito as “one of the most dangerous active volcanoes in Latin America”. He added: “Its output is limited, but there are always the brave who will expose themselves to reach the colossus.”
Fortunately, there were no injuries.
Here’s how social media users reacted:
The video of the incident quickly spread on social media and sparked a wave of reactions online.
One user pointed out: “To clarify, climbing this active volcano has been prohibited for some time. Guatemala has about 30 inactive volcanoes that are perfectly safe to climb.” Another wrote: “This is some type of final destination right here.” Others echoed similar warnings with one commenter noting: “FYI the locals highly recommend not walking this volcano as it’s been active for a while so to each their own,” while another added: “Tourists who think nature will give them a pass over the locals always make me laugh… and then have the audacity to complain.”
Another wrote: “Horrifying footage shows tourists caught in an eruption after climbing the crater of the Santiaguito volcano in Guatemala yesterday.
Giant rocks were falling everywhere. That was a near-fatal mistake. They are incredibly lucky to be alive. (April 20)”
Meanwhile, Guatemala’s disaster management agency, the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED), said in a translated bulletin that “the volcano continues to expel lava in blocks, creating avalanches on different sides of the Caliente dome, as well as short-range pyroclastic flows.”
Officials further added: “Incandescence was observed in the crater during the night and early morning, proving the constant activity of this volcanic complex, considered one of the most active in the country.”
They also reaffirmed that the restricted zone remains in effect, saying: “In light of this activity, the CONRED Executive Secretariat reminds everyone that there is currently a restricted zone of at least 5 kilometers (5.3 miles) around the volcanic complex, where entry, stay or camping is prohibited.”
