Acatenango Volcano Hike Complete Guide
Thinking about braving the Acatenango Volcano Hike in Guatemala? You absolutely should– this hike was, without a doubt, one of the most incredible things I have ever witnessed in my life. I mean camping next to an active volcano and seeing it erupt and spew lava right in front of you?? Absolutely magical (and okay, also kind of terrifying). Nothing to worry about though, because in this guide I will share my experience and tell you everything you need to know about this epic overnight volcano hike. From how to prepare, what to expect, the best tour companies and recommended gear– I’ve got you covered for this bucket list adventure in Guatemala.
My Experience Hiking Acatenango
To me, exploring Acatenango in Guatemala is a journey that promises awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable memories. As you embark on this epic overnight volcano hike, be prepared to be mesmerized by the raw power and beauty of nature. When you stand atop Acatenango, gazing at the breathtaking views of neighboring volcanoes and the vast Guatemalan landscape, you’ll understand why this hike is a must-do for adventure seekers. The sense of accomplishment and the memories created will stay with you long after you’ve descended back to civilization.
Getting to the Trailhead
Most tour companies will pick you up in the morning, around 8 or 9am. Make sure to eat breakfast beforehand and bring your own water and snacks. From there you will be taken in a van to the trailhead. The ride is about an hour long and you’ll end up starting the trek around 10 or 11am.
The Hike to Base Camp
The hike begins with a steady ascent through lush forests, offering glimpses of exotic wildlife and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. To reach the base camp, it is pretty much straight up the entire way, and very challenging. Most groups stopped to take breaks every half hour or so. We also stopped for a little while to have lunch. As you climb higher, the terrain becomes more challenging, but the anticipation of witnessing an active volcano up close keeps you motivated. We ended up reaching base camp at around 5:30pm after a long day of hiking.
Base Camp
Upon arriving at base camp, we all picked our tents and set out our sleeping bags to prepare for an evening unlike any other. The “tents” looked more like sheds, and could fit six people in each one. I’ve found that it is easy to bond with new people when you’re all doing something hard together, so it didn’t feel weird having to room with strangers at this point. We were all sharing the pain together.
The Hike to Fuego
After a short break, you will have the option to hike Fuego. This is the volcano that is actually erupting. Not knowing what I was getting into, I decided to go for it. This hike is also extremely challenging, as a majority of it is hiking straight up the side of the volcano, but in the dark this time. I was regretting my decision pretty much the entire way to the top, but when we finally made it and saw the volcano erupting right in front of us, it made it all worth it. As darkness falls, the volcano comes alive with fiery eruptions, casting an otherworldly glow across the night sky.
We made it back at around 10pm, and the hike back was absolutely brutal after such a long day of hiking. We sat by the fire, ate dinner, and passed out in our “tent.”
Sunrise
You will be woken up at around 4am and asked if you want to go on the sunrise hike. I was absolutely exhausted and the thought of beginning another extremely hard hike this early in the morning was a hard no for me. To be honest, the view of the volcano from the base camp was the best view, and there was not really a need to do the extra two hikes in my opinion. The view from the camp is amazing!
The Hike Back Down
The few members of our group that decided to do the sunrise hike came back around 8am, as our group had breakfast and started to pack up. We headed back down the trail shortly after.
As expected, the hike down was much easier and did not take nearly as long. We were back at the start around 11am and back in Antigua around 1pm.
What to Expect
Embarking on the Acatenango Volcano hike in Guatemala promises an adventure like no other, but it is very difficult and strenuous– do not underestimate it! The trail is steep and demanding, with rugged terrain that will test your endurance. However, every step is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of neighboring volcanoes and the stunning landscape below. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, from scorching sun to chilly winds at higher altitudes. And as night falls, the real magic begins with a chance to witness a mesmerizing volcanic display as Fuego Volcano erupts in fiery glory against the night sky.
What to Bring
Before embarking on this adventure, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Make sure to pack sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing layers for the cold night, plenty of water, and high-energy snacks for the trek. Also bring cash for the park entrance fee: Q110 (about $15 USD). The tour companies provide tents, sleeping bags, hats & gloves, lunch and dinner the first day, and breakfast the second day.
Tour Companies
There are many tour companies in Antigua that offer day or overnight trips to Acatenango. Some are very inexpensive and provide the bear necessities, while others include a little more luxury. I booked a tour through GetYourGuide that was a great price. If I were to do it over again, I would probably opt for a tour that offered better/warmer accommodation (it is a freezing cold and uncomfortable night). Here are a few of my recommended tour companies in Antigua:
So, if you’re ready for an epic adventure that pushes your limits and rewards you with nature’s grandeur, add hiking Acatenango to your bucket list. It’s a journey of a lifetime, and a testament to the wonders that await those who dare to explore the world’s natural beauty.
