Background

Volcán Acatenango: Guardian of the Highlands

Hike a dormant giant for stunning views of Volcán de Fuego's eruptions and panoramic Guatemalan landscapes. An unforgettable overnight adventure awaits!

4.9

Hike Volcán Acatenango, a dormant stratovolcano in Guatemala, for stunning views and the chance to witness the eruptions of nearby Volcán de Fuego. The overnight trek takes you through diverse microclimates to a base camp with unforgettable vistas.

A brief summary to Volcan acatenango

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Hike during the dry season (November to April) for the best chance of clear skies and views of Volcán de Fuego.
  • Acclimatize in Antigua for a few days before the hike to help prevent altitude sickness.
  • Pack layers, as temperatures can range from mild to below freezing, especially at night and during the early morning summit hike.
  • Consider hiring a porter to carry your gear, especially if you're not an experienced hiker.
  • Bring sturdy hiking boots and walking poles for the steep and sometimes slippery terrain.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Antigua, there is no direct public transport to La Soledad, the village near the Acatenango trailhead. Consider a taxi or shuttle to La Soledad. Shuttles can be arranged through tour operators in Antigua as part of a hiking package.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can be hired from Antigua to reach La Soledad, the starting point for the Acatenango hike. Negotiate the fare in advance. A one-way trip will likely cost Q200-Q300. Confirm that the taxi will also be able to pick you up after your hike, or arrange for a return trip with your tour operator.

  • Driving

    The trailhead for Acatenango is near La Soledad, approximately 18.6 miles (30km) from Antigua. The drive takes about an hour. There is parking available in La Soledad, though it may be limited. Be aware that the road to La Soledad is steep and may require a 4x4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season. Parking costs may apply.

Unlock the Best of Volcan acatenango

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Volcan acatenango

Volcán Acatenango, a majestic stratovolcano rising to 3,976 meters (13,045 feet), is a dominant feature of the Guatemalan Highlands. Part of the Central American Volcanic Arc, Acatenango's name comes from the Nahuatl words 'acatl' (reed) and 'tenango' (place of). While its neighbor, Volcán de Fuego, is known for its constant activity, Acatenango has been dormant since its last minor eruption in 1972. The trek to Acatenango's summit is a challenging but rewarding experience, typically done as an overnight hike. The trail ascends through four distinct microclimates, starting with farmland where locals cultivate corn and snow peas. It then leads into an old-growth cloud forest, a mystical environment teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Emerging from the cloud forest, you'll enter a high-alpine forest with views of other volcanoes. The final stretch is a climb through wind-swept volcanic terrain. Reaching base camp offers breathtaking views, especially at night when Volcán de Fuego puts on a spectacular display of eruptions. Many hikers opt for an additional, strenuous hike closer to Volcán de Fuego for an even more intense experience. The next morning, a pre-dawn hike to Acatenango's summit rewards you with a 360-degree panoramic view, including a sunrise over the Guatemalan highlands.

Popular Experiences near Volcan acatenango

Popular Hotels near Volcan acatenango

Select Currency