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Cerro de La Cruz: Antigua's Iconic Viewpoint

Hike or ride to Cerro de la Cruz for Antigua's best panoramic views, colonial charm, and stunning volcano backdrops. A photographer's dream!

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Cerro de la Cruz, or Hill of the Cross, is a prominent hilltop overlooking Antigua Guatemala, offering panoramic views of the city's colonial layout, surrounding volcanoes, and historical landmarks. Topped with a large stone cross erected in 1930, it's a must-visit for photographers and sightseers seeking the best perspective of Antigua.

A brief summary to Cerro de La Cruz

  • H779+P7H, Antigua Guatemala, GT
  • Monday 7 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-6 pm
  • Friday 7 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Check the weather forecast before heading up; clear days offer the best views of the volcanoes.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when returning after sunset, as there have been reports of theft.
  • Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for the walk or hike.
  • Take your time to enjoy the view and explore the surrounding park area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Antigua's city center, head north on 1A Avenida. Continue past the basketball court until you reach the base of the hill, where you'll find the marked entrance to Cerro de la Cruz. The walk from the center takes approximately 20 minutes. The path consists of stairs and a paved walkway leading to the top, taking around 10-15 minutes to ascend. There is no entrance fee.

  • Tuk-tuk/Taxi

    Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available in Antigua's city center, particularly near the Santa Catalina Arch. A tuk-tuk ride to the top of Cerro de la Cruz costs approximately 30 Quetzales (GTQ), which is around $4 USD. The ride takes about 5 minutes from the city center. Taxis may cost slightly more, with Uber estimating a fare of GTQ 13-15.

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Discover more about Cerro de La Cruz

Cerro de la Cruz, originally known as Cerro del Manchen, is a small mountain near Antigua Guatemala that provides sweeping views of the city. The hill got its current name from the cross that watches over the city, which was initially made of wood in 1930 before being replaced with a cement structure. From the summit, the perfectly gridded streets of Antigua come into full view, showcasing its well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, convents, and cobblestone streets. The imposing Volcán de Agua provides a stunning backdrop, while Volcán Acatenango and Volcán Fuego can be seen in the distance on clear days. The site is a favorite spot for photographers, capturing the colors of the colonial city. The area around Cerro de la Cruz features a forest with resting areas for visitors to relax and appreciate the scenery. The park has undergone renovations to improve the visitor experience, including the addition of trails and ramps for wheelchair accessibility. While enjoying the panoramic views, visitors can also reflect on the history of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch, Tanque La Unión, and Casa Santo Domingo nearby.

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