Parque Municipal Cerro El Baúl: A Natural Escape in Quetzaltenango
Discover panoramic views and natural beauty at Cerro El Baúl, Quetzaltenango's beloved national park and scenic escape.
Parque Municipal Cerro El Baúl, also known as El Baúl, is a prominent natural landmark overlooking Quetzaltenango, Guatemala's second-largest city. Rising to 2,650 meters (8,690 feet), this forested lava dome provides a stunning vista of the city and the surrounding volcanic landscape. Declared a National Park in 1955, Cerro El Baúl has long been a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. The park offers a welcome respite from the urban environment, with opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature. The area is home to diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species and mammals. Visitors can explore the park's trails, leading to viewpoints with breathtaking scenery. A giant obelisk with a carving of the Maya warrior Tecún Umán stands in the park, with local legend claiming he is buried there. Cerro El Baúl is easily accessible by car, making it a convenient escape for those seeking fresh air and panoramic views. However, visitors should be aware of reports of robberies on the trails and exercise caution, especially when hiking alone. Despite these concerns, Cerro El Baúl remains a significant natural and recreational space for Quetzaltenango.
Local tips
- Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views of Quetzaltenango and the surrounding volcanoes.
- Bring a cardboard box to enjoy the cement slides at the park.
- Hike with friends and avoid solo trips due to reported safety concerns on the trails.
- Be prepared for cooler temperatures, as Quetzaltenango is one of Guatemala's coldest cities.
A brief summary to Parque Municipal Cerro El Baúl
- RFJX+5V4, Quetzaltenango, GT
- Monday 5 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 5 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 5 am-6 pm
- Thursday 5 am-6 pm
- Friday 5 am-6 pm
- Saturday 5 am-6 pm
- Sunday 5 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From Quetzaltenango's Parque Centro America, head east, then south towards the Monumento a la Marimba. From there, follow the road leading up to Cerro El Baúl. The walk is approximately 4 kilometers and will take about an hour. Be prepared for an uphill trek.
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Public Transport
From Parque Centro America, take a microbus (minivan) heading towards 'Colonia Molina'. These microbuses are common and cost around Q1.25 during the day and Q2 at night. Ask the driver to drop you off near the entrance to Cerro El Baúl. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrance.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available around Parque Centro America. A taxi ride to Cerro El Baúl should cost between Q15 and Q30. Negotiate the fare beforehand. Alternatively, use a ride-sharing app if available in Quetzaltenango. Note that prices may vary depending on demand and time of day.
