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Cerro El Baúl: A Quetzaltenango Overlook

Hike or bike up this lava dome on Xela's edge for panoramic city views and a breath of fresh air in a national park.

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Cerro El Baúl, a lava dome on the southeastern edge of Quetzaltenango, offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes. Declared a national park in 1955, it's a popular spot for locals and tourists seeking outdoor recreation and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Cerro el baul

  • RFVG+RPW, Quetzaltenango, Zona 03, GT
  • 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

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on dirt trails.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited options within the park.
  • Visit on a clear day to maximize the views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid hiking alone, especially at night, due to reports of robberies.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Parque Central in Quetzaltenango, walk west on 7a Avenida until you reach 12a Calle. Turn right onto 12a Calle, then continue to 6a Avenida, where you'll see signs pointing towards Cerro El Baúl. Follow the signs to the base of the hill. The walk to the park entrance is uphill and takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

  • Public Transport

    From Parque Central, locate the minibus terminal. Take a bus heading towards 'Cerro' or 'Baúl' and confirm with the driver that they are going to Cerro El Baúl. The bus will drop you off at the foot of the hill. Bus fare is approximately Q5-Q8.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available around Parque Central. A taxi or tuk-tuk ride to Cerro El Baúl costs approximately Q15-Q30. Specify 'Cerro El Baúl' as your destination. The driver will take you as close as possible to the park entrance, from which you may have to walk a short distance uphill.

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Discover more about Cerro el baul

Cerro El Baúl, also known simply as El Baúl, is a prominent natural landmark overlooking the valley of Quetzaltenango. This forested lava dome, located on the southeastern periphery of the city, rises to an elevation of 2,650 meters (8,690 feet). Its strategic location provides stunning views of Quetzaltenango, the second-largest city in Guatemala, and the volcanoes that dot the horizon. Designated a national park in 1955, Cerro El Baúl spans an area of 2.40 square kilometers (0.93 square miles). It serves as one of the city's last remaining green spaces, offering a respite from the urban environment. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and viewpoints, making it a favorite destination for families and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the park's diverse ecosystems, including forests of pine, oak, and cypress trees. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including squirrels and numerous bird species. In addition to its natural attractions, Cerro El Baúl features a giant obelisk dedicated to the Maya warrior Tecún Umán, a significant figure in Guatemalan history. There is also a play park with cement slides. Legend has it that Cerro El Baúl is also a place of mystery, with tales of hidden treasure guarded by a magical creature. While the park has faced challenges in recent years due to deforestation and urbanization, it remains a valuable natural and recreational resource for the city of Quetzaltenango.

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