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Volcán Acatenango: A Hiker's Paradise

Hike Guatemala's Acatenango for unmatched views of Volcán Fuego's eruptions. An unforgettable overnight adventure near Antigua.

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Volcán Acatenango, a dormant stratovolcano near Antigua, Guatemala, offers a challenging yet rewarding overnight hike. Ascend through diverse microclimates to witness stunning views of the active Volcán Fuego and the surrounding highlands. The trek is demanding, but the opportunity to see Fuego erupt is an unforgettable experience.

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

  • Bring warm layers, as temperatures can drop below freezing at night and during the early morning summit hike.
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction to navigate the steep and sometimes slippery terrain.
  • Consider renting or bringing hiking poles to help with the ascent and descent, especially on loose gravel.
  • Stay hydrated and bring snacks for energy, as the hike is strenuous and can take 4.5 to 9 hours to ascend.
  • Book a tour with a reputable company that provides experienced guides, appropriate gear, and safety measures.
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Getting There

  • Shuttle

    Most hikers begin their journey in Antigua, Guatemala. Numerous tour operators offer round-trip shuttle services to La Soledad, the village at the base of Acatenango and the trailhead. The shuttle ride takes approximately one hour. Prices for guided tours, including transportation, range from $45 to $110 USD per person. Some tour operators also offer transportation services from Guatemala City and Lake Atitlán.

  • Driving

    From Guatemala City, take CA-1 Occidente west towards Chimaltenango. In El Tejar, turn left onto CA-1 Occidente-Libramiento de Chimaltenango. After 5.3 kilometers, take the off-ramp, then take a sharp right on Carretera a Parramos. Drive straight through Parramos, then turn right at the T on Ruta a Yepocapa. Continue for 17.8 kilometers to Aldea La Soledad. Parking is available in La Soledad. Driving from Guatemala City to Acatenango is approximately 1.5 hours. The cost of driving is estimated at $8-12 USD.

  • Public Transport

    From Antigua, take a bus to Parramos from the bus terminal near the Antigua market. In Parramos, take a bus or microbus to Yepocapa and get off at La Soledad. As of January 2020, this trip cost between Q10 and Q13, but prices have since increased. From Guatemala City, take a bus from Guatemala El Trebol Zona 7 to Patzicía. This bus runs hourly and costs $3 USD. From Patzicía, you can take a taxi to Acatenango.

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Discover more about Volcan acatenango

Volcán Acatenango, towering at 3,976 meters (13,045 feet), is the third-highest volcano in Guatemala and a popular destination for adventurous travelers. Located near the historic city of Antigua, it forms a complex with the active Volcán Fuego, offering a unique opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. The hike to Acatenango's summit is a challenging but rewarding experience, typically done as an overnight trek. The trail ascends through four distinct microclimates, starting with local farm fields, followed by a tropical cloud forest, then a temperate coniferous forest, and finally, the storm-beaten tree-line of the volcano. Acatenango itself has been relatively quiet in recent times. The most recent eruptions occurred in the 20th century, between 1924 and 1927, and again in 1972. However, its neighbor, Volcán Fuego, has been continuously erupting since the time of the Spanish conquistadors, providing a spectacular display of volcanic power. The overnight hike usually involves reaching a base camp in the afternoon, relaxing and enjoying the views of Volcán Fuego erupting throughout the night. An early morning ascent to the summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Guatemalan highlands, stretching as far as the Mexican border on a clear day. The descent back to La Soledad typically takes around three hours. While the hike is demanding, with steep inclines and loose gravel terrain, it is considered doable for people with average fitness. Proper preparation, including appropriate clothing, footwear, and hiking poles, is essential. The views from the summit and the chance to witness Volcán Fuego's eruptions make the effort worthwhile.

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