Volcán Atitlán: A Majestic Climb

Conquer Volcán Atitlán for unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Atitlán and surrounding volcanoes. A challenging hike with unforgettable rewards.

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Volcán Atitlán, a towering stratovolcano on the southern shore of Lake Atitlán, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike with panoramic views. Though considered active, its last eruption was in 1853, allowing adventurers to explore its stunning landscapes safely.

A brief summary to Volcán Atitlán

Local tips

Start your hike early, around 4:00 or 5:00 AM, to avoid the heat and potential afternoon clouds.
Hire a local guide in Santiago Atitlán, as the trails can be challenging and easy to get lost on.
Pack ample water (3 liters recommended), snacks, and warm clothing, as temperatures can drop at higher elevations.
Consider hiking during the dry season (November to April) for more predictable weather and less muddy trails.
Be prepared for a strenuous hike, with steep paths and significant elevation gain.

Getting There

Boat and Hiking

Most travelers start in Panajachel and take a boat to Santiago Atitlán, the primary starting point for hikes. Boats (lanchas) depart from the Tzanjuyú docks, with the cost approximately Q25 per person. From Santiago Atitlán, arrange for a local guide and transportation to the trailhead. Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, as the trails can be challenging and easy to get lost on. The cost for a guide varies, but expect to pay around Q400-Q650 for a day hike, depending on the group size. Transportation to the trailhead via pickup truck is typically included with a guided tour.

Discover more about Volcán Atitlán

Volcán Atitlán is one of Guatemala's most stunning natural wonders. This towering volcano sits on the southern shore of Lake Atitlán, creating a breathtaking backdrop that draws visitors from all over the world. Standing at approximately 3,535 meters (11,598 feet), it is part of the Central American Volcanic Arc, a chain formed by the subduction of the Cocos Plate under the Caribbean Plate. The volcano has been historically active, with over a dozen eruptions recorded between 1469 and 1853. The most recent significant eruption occurred in May 1853, when ash darkened the skies. Volcán Atitlán, along with neighboring volcanoes Tolimán and San Pedro, creates a stunning vista, their colors changing throughout the day as they reflect on Lake Atitlán. The challenging hike to the summit traverses rugged volcanic terrain. The effort is rewarded with remarkable views of surrounding volcanoes like Acatenango, Fuego, and Tolimán, as well as Lake Atitlán and even the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. The diverse ecosystem around the volcano is home to various birds, including the vibrant quetzal, Guatemala's national bird. There are multiple places to camp on Atitlán, including several rest areas at regular intervals on the climb. You can camp at these in a pinch, but the best options are the forest base camp and the summit.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

ATITLAN EXPEDITIONS

6.9 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Atitlán with a stay at Atitlan Expeditions, a perfect blend of comfort and adventure in Guatemala's highlands.

Posada de Santiago

7.3 km

Experience the serene beauty and rich culture of Santiago Atitlán at Posada de Santiago, your perfect lakeside retreat.

Parque Xechivoy

7.3 km

Explore the tranquil beauty of Parque Xechivoy, a serene park in Santiago Atitlán perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Playa Pública Chinim ya', Santiago Atitlán

8.1 km

Experience the serene beauty of Playa Pública Chinim Ya, a hidden gem in Santiago Atitlán with stunning lake views and rich local culture.

Playa Pública Chinim ya', Santiago Atitlán

Dreamland ~ Sanctuary & Gardens

8.9 km

Discover tranquility at Dreamland Sanctuary & Gardens, a wellness retreat by Lake Atitlán, offering serene landscapes and rejuvenating experiences.

Lago Atitlán

12.7 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Lago Atitlán, the jewel of Guatemala, surrounded by majestic volcanoes.

Mikaso Hotel

15.1 km

Discover tranquility and stunning views at Mikaso Hotel, your ideal retreat in San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala.

Tzunun' Ya'

15.4 km

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of San Pedro La Laguna at Tzunun' Ya', where history and art come alive in a stunning lakeside setting.

Casa Palopó - Relais & Chateaux

15.9 km

Discover the serene luxury of Casa Palopó, a Relais & Châteaux hotel offering stunning views of Lake Atitlán and rich cultural experiences.

Aguas Termales Natural

16.2 km

Discover the serene Aguas Termales Natural by Lake Atitlán, where relaxation meets stunning natural beauty in Guatemala's majestic landscape.

Iglesia Católica San Juan La Laguna

16.4 km

Explore the stunning Iglesia Católica San Juan La Laguna, a vibrant church rich in culture and spirituality, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Atitlán.

Santa Catarina Palopó Church

16.5 km

Discover the stunning Santa Catarina Palopó Church, a cultural gem by Lake Atitlán blending history, spirituality, and breathtaking views.

Villas B'alam Ya

16.9 km

Explore the serene beauty of Villas B'alam Ya, a unique cottage village in Panajachel, Guatemala, blending nature, culture, and tranquility.

VILLAS JUCANYA

17.0 km

Experience luxury and tranquility at Villas Jucanya, a premier hotel on the shores of Lake Atitlán, perfect for relaxation and adventure in Panajachel.

Mirador Kaqasiiwaan

17.1 km

Discover breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes at Mirador Kaqasiiwaan, a scenic spot in San Juan La Laguna.

Unmissable attractions to see

Volcán Tolimán

3.7 km

Conquer Volcán Tolimán for breathtaking Lake Atitlán views. A challenging hike through Mayan landscapes rewards with unparalleled panoramas.

Santiago Atitlán

7.9 km

Discover the vibrant Maya culture and stunning natural landscapes of Santiago Atitlán, a must-visit destination by Lake Atitlán in Guatemala.

Maximon 2023-2024

7.9 km

Discover the intriguing Mayan deity Maximon in Santiago Atitlán, a unique blend of indigenous traditions and Catholic influences.

Lake Atitlán

12.1 km

Discover the beauty and culture of Lake Atitlán, a volcanic lake surrounded by Mayan villages and towering volcanoes in the Guatemalan Highlands.

San Pedro La Laguna

14.7 km

Discover San Pedro La Laguna: Mayan culture, stunning lake views, and a vibrant backpacker scene in the heart of Guatemala.

La Bajada del Diablo

15.3 km

Discover breathtaking panoramic views at La Bajada del Diablo near Chicacao, Guatemala. A scenic overlook offering a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.

Tornado's Excursions

15.5 km

Explore Lake Atitlán's breathtaking beauty with personalized tours from Tornado's Excursions in San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala.

Lavanda Guatemala

15.8 km

Discover vibrant lavender fields with stunning lake and volcano views at this tranquil Guatemala escape. Perfect for nature and photography lovers.

Kayibal - Mirador

15.8 km

Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Atitlán without the hike at Kayibal Mirador, easily accessible by tuk-tuk from San Pedro La Laguna.

Casa Flor Ixcaco Weaving Cooperative

16.2 km

Discover the art of Mayan weaving at Casa Flor Ixcaco in San Juan La Laguna, where tradition, empowerment, and natural beauty intertwine.

Galeria de Arte CHIYA

16.4 km

Discover vibrant Mayan artistry at Galeria de Arte CHIYA in San Juan La Laguna, showcasing local talent and cultural traditions.

Street of the Arts

16.4 km

Discover vibrant murals, local art, and authentic Mayan culture on San Juan la Laguna's colorful Street of the Arts.

Xocolatl San Juan la Laguna | Chocolates Artesanales | Productos de Belleza

16.4 km

Experience the rich flavors of artisanal Guatemalan chocolate and cacao-infused beauty products in the heart of San Juan la Laguna.

San Juan La Laguna

16.5 km

Discover Mayan traditions, vibrant art, and stunning lake views in the authentic town of San Juan La Laguna, Guatemala.

Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó

16.5 km

Discover the vibrant colors and rich culture of Santa Catarina Palopó, a lakeside village transformed by art and community spirit.

Experience unique fusion cuisine at Restaurante Raíces Atitlán while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán and its majestic volcanoes.

Explore Creaciones Snars: A vibrant paintings store in Santiago Atitlán showcasing Guatemalan artistry and culture.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Ranchito Atitlan

7.5 km

Experience an authentic sports bar vibe at Ranchito Atitlan, where local culture meets delicious food and stunning views of Lake Atitlán.

Crazy moon

7.7 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Crazy Moon, a lively bar in Santiago Atitlán offering a delightful selection of drinks and a warm atmosphere.

Snak Bar Bistro

7.8 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Snak Bar Bistro in Santiago Atitlán, where local flavors and breathtaking views come together.

Gold Bar

7.8 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santiago Atitlán at Gold Bar, where local charm meets refreshing drinks in a lively atmosphere.

La Caverna

8.0 km

Discover La Caverna, a vibrant bar in Santiago Atitlán offering local drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

The Pool Bar & Grill

15.0 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Pool Bar & Grill in San Pedro La Laguna, where refreshing drinks meet stunning views and a relaxing poolside vibe.

Bar Sublime

15.5 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Sublime in San Pedro La Laguna, where great drinks, music, and unforgettable moments await.

The Alegre Pub

15.5 km

Discover vibrant nightlife at The Alegre Pub, San Pedro La Laguna's favorite spot for live music, burgers, and good times.

Exotic Drinks

17.4 km

Discover Exotic Drinks in Panajachel, a vibrant lakeside bar offering exquisite cocktails and stunning views of Lake Atitlán.

Taberna los bro

17.5 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Taberna los Bro, a charming beer garden in Panajachel, perfect for relaxing and enjoying local brews with stunning views.

CoCoBoLo

17.8 km

Experience vibrant nightlife and local culture at CoCoBoLo, the must-visit bar in stunning Panajachel, Guatemala.

Selina Beach Bar

17.8 km

Discover the vibrant Selina Beach Bar in Panajachel for stunning views, refreshing drinks, and a lively atmosphere on the shores of Lake Atitlán.

Amaranto Bar

17.9 km

Experience the vibrant ambiance of Amaranto Bar in Panajachel, where refreshing drinks meet stunning views of Lake Atitlán.

Small Bar La Azotea

17.9 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Small Bar La Azotea in Panajachel, where stunning views and refreshing drinks await at Lake Atitlán.

La clínica

17.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Clínica, a bar in Panajachel serving local drinks and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Guatemala.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Volcán Atitlán with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Volcán Atitlán: A Majestic Climb

A brief summary to Volcán Atitlán

Local tips

Getting There

Boat and Hiking

Unlock the Best of Volcán Atitlán

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Volcán Atitlán

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

ATITLAN EXPEDITIONS

Posada de Santiago

Parque Xechivoy

Playa Pública Chinim ya', Santiago Atitlán

Dreamland ~ Sanctuary & Gardens

Lago Atitlán

Mikaso Hotel

Tzunun' Ya'

Casa Palopó - Relais & Chateaux

Aguas Termales Natural

Iglesia Católica San Juan La Laguna

Santa Catarina Palopó Church

Villas B'alam Ya

VILLAS JUCANYA

Mirador Kaqasiiwaan

Unmissable attractions to see

Volcán Tolimán

Santiago Atitlán

Maximon 2023-2024

Lake Atitlán

San Pedro La Laguna

La Bajada del Diablo

Tornado's Excursions

Lavanda Guatemala

Kayibal - Mirador

Casa Flor Ixcaco Weaving Cooperative

Galeria de Arte CHIYA

Street of the Arts

Xocolatl San Juan la Laguna | Chocolates Artesanales | Productos de Belleza

San Juan La Laguna

Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó

Essential places to dine

Volver Volver

Le Antigua Restaurante

Cevicheria Jireh

Lolita Café y Pasteles

Restaurante Khtlyn y Danne

Restaurante Atitlan Dreams

Brisas Del Lago

Restaurante LyN

Restaurante el Pescador de Santiago Atitlan, Sololá, Guatemala.

cevichería. Láke Atitlán

Yerminacios Bistro

Restaurante casa Atitlan

Germinación Cocina y Bistro

Restaurante El Gran Sol

Restaurante Raíces Atitlán

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Miscelánea Las Brisas

Tienda de María- Textiles

Micelanea Luminares

BOUTIQUE, ZEBRA

Boutique y Zapatería el Excelente

Evie’s Atitlan Shop

Multiventas Atitlán

Bordados Magda

BORDADOSHOP (Trajes Típicos y más)

Boutique la buena moda

Peques Contentos

Ropas Típicas Sureli

Típicos Jamar

PRENDAS JIREH

CREACIONES SNARS

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Ranchito Atitlan

Crazy moon

Snak Bar Bistro

Gold Bar

La Caverna