Derek Haines’ next challenge to raise $50,000 for the Central Caribbean Marine Institute’s (CCMI) Reef Research project was to climb 2 volcanoes in Guatemala. He was met at the airport on the evening of June 29th by his two partners for the climbs, daughter Lizzy and long term friend and colleague in charity work, Gaby Amado from Guatemala.

The initial plan to climb Volcano Agua then Volcano Acatenango had to be changed as heavy rains and earthquakes had led to major landslides closing the trails up Agua. Guide Rodrigo strongly advised tackling Acatenango 13,045 feet (3976 m) at dawn on June 30^th whilst the

weather was clear. This was agreed as the best option, although it meant little time to acclimatize.

Arriving at the starting point amongst corn fields at 7am distant booms from neighbouring active volcano Fuego could already be heard. The track was steep and progressed through farmlands into dense rainforest and then pine forest. Lean-to shelters provided welcome pauses for water and snacks. From about 10,000 feet the pines disappeared and then the scant remaining vegetation fell away to leave unstable scree that caused the hiker to frustratingly slide back down with every footstep. The wind became stronger and the temperature dropped but the climbers were well equipped for all eventualities; having noted that two people fell to their deaths and four others died of hypothermia in January this year.

After about 4.5 hours the rim of the volcano could be seen and the party reached it shortly afterwards. Fantastic views took in surrounding volcanic peaks that rose out of the clouds that lay far below. The booms from earlier were now seen to accompany the intermittent plumes of grey smoke belching from Volcano Fuego, close across the valley and some 700 feet below. The three climbers proudly waved the Cayman Islands flag from the rim, took photographs and videos.

Increasing cold broke the spell of the beautiful vista and a careful descent was made, almost skiing back down the scree. Sore knees and tired legs made conditions underfoot even more treacherous, and several unintentional bottom slides were made. 10hrs after leaving the car the group returned exhausted yet exhilarated by the day’s adventure.

Replacing Agua in the new itinerary was Volcano Pacaya, an active volcano in the same range as Acatenango. Not as grueling or high in altitude, Pacaya had erupted only 6 weeks earlier, which added its own thrill to the challenge. Guide Paulina was a local resident who was able to give personal accounts of the strong eruption in 2010 that forced her and nearby villages to evacuate due to the lava flow. It is considered too dangerous because of eruptions and gasses to climb to the rim and climbing higher than about 7.000 feet is forbidden. The lava flows from the recent eruptions were clearly seen stretching down the volcano sides and into the farm lands below; the recent flows black and the older grey. At about 6,000 feet there is a shack, the ‘Lava Store’ where enterprising artisans sell jewelry made from lava. In the recent eruption a lake of lava filled a huge 180 foot hole close to the store and steam still rose from this. On the edge a hot vent was found where people toasted marshmallows; a delicious break from the hike.

The climb continued, hoping to reach a side cone slightly higher up. However as the party approached the ridge a ferocious thunder storm broke out and further progress was deemed too dangerous. Lightning lit up the sky as a hasty retreat was made back down the tracks which were quickly turning into rivers of mud. The sodden hikers were relieved to get back down and back to Antigua for a warm, dry celebratory dinner.

Derek said,”This was a most enjoyable and rewarding weekend. Lizzy and Gaby were super company and stuck to the task in hand with fortitude and good humour. Our guides were excellent, informative and Rodrigo says he is going to donate to the cause. I have always been met with friendship and hospitality in Guatemala and this was no exception. May I thank those who have already donated to the Volcanoes and Marathons appeal. We are about half way to target.”

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