Volcán Santa María: A Guatemalan Hiking Challenge
Hike Guatemala's Volcán Santa María for breathtaking views of Volcán Santiaguito and the Pacific coast. A challenging climb with rewarding vistas.
Volcán Santa María, a towering stratovolcano near Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, offers a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views of the active Volcán Santiaguito and the Pacific coast. Its history includes a massive eruption in 1902, followed by the growth of the Santiaguito lava dome, making it a unique and captivating destination for experienced hikers.
A brief summary to Volcán Santa María
- Quetzaltenango, GT
Local tips
- Start the hike as early as possible to avoid cloud cover and increase your chances of clear views from the summit.
- Bring plenty of water (2-3 liters), snacks, and appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions.
- Consider hiring a local guide for added safety and to learn more about the volcano's history and the surrounding environment.
- Check recent volcanic activity reports before your hike.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Quetzaltenango, take a chicken bus from the Minerva Temple to Llano de Pinal, the trailhead for Volcán Santa María. Buses typically start running around 6:00 AM - 6:30 AM. The bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes. From the bus stop in Llano de Pinal, walk a short distance (less than 1 km) to the trailhead. The bus fare is around Q5.
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Taxi
A taxi or ride-sharing service from Quetzaltenango to the Volcán Santa María trailhead in Llano de Pinal takes around 32 minutes. The estimated cost is between $11 and $14 (approximately Q85 - Q110). An Uber to the trailhead may cost around Q30 if shared with a friend.
Discover more about Volcán Santa María
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Santa María
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Santa María, a majestic volcano in Guatemala, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Hostal Y Sauna Natural Los Vahos Xela
6.8 km
Experience relaxation and cultural immersion at Hostal Y Sauna Natural Los Vahos in the heart of Quetzaltenango, Guatemala.
Cultura Quetzalteca
8.8 km
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Chocolate Doña Pancha
8.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of handcrafted Guatemalan chocolate at Chocolate Doña Pancha in Quetzaltenango.
Tranvía De Los Altos
9.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Quetzaltenango with Tranvía De Los Altos, your gateway to unforgettable bus tours.
Quetzaltrekkers
9.0 km
Experience the beauty of Quetzaltenango with Quetzaltrekkers - eco-friendly adventures that support local communities and enrich your travel experience.
Monte Verde Tours
9.0 km
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Quetzal Tours Guatemala
9.1 km
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Casa Seibel
9.1 km
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La Esquina Asiatica
9.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Asia at La Esquina Asiatica, a cozy restaurant in Quetzaltenango known for its innovative dishes and warm atmosphere.
Miguel de Cervantes Spanish School Quetzaltenango
9.1 km
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Mandarina
9.2 km
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Patsy • Xela
9.2 km
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Centro Histórico de Xela
9.2 km
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Rustic
9.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Área Descanso
1.5 km
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Entre Cerros Park
5.7 km
Escape to nature at Entre Cerros Park in Quetzaltenango: hiking, gardens, and stunning views await!
Mirador menor Cerro La Muela
6.9 km
Hike to Mirador Menor Cerro La Muela for breathtaking views of Quetzaltenango's mountains and valleys. A perfect escape into nature's beauty.
Cima del Cerro La Muela
6.9 km
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Mirador xecaracoj
7.1 km
Breathtaking views of Quetzaltenango and surrounding volcanoes from this easily accessible scenic overlook.
Carr. a Fuentes Georginas
7.5 km
Rejuvenate in the therapeutic mineral waters of Fuentes Georginas, Guatemala's natural hot springs paradise nestled near the majestic Zunil Volcano.
Thelma Quixtán Park
7.6 km
Escape to tranquility in Quetzaltenango's Thelma Quixtán Park: lush gardens, peaceful paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere await.
Fuentes Georginas
7.7 km
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Mirador Xetuj
7.8 km
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Fuentes Termales Georginas, Quetzaltenango
7.8 km
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7a. avenida, Zona 1 Quetzaltenango
8.9 km
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Catedral del Espíritu Santo
9.2 km
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Calzada El Calvario
9.3 km
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Puente de Piedra
9.3 km
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Parque a Centro América
9.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante Mirador de Xela - XelaUp
8.7 km
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El Cuartito
9.2 km
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Restaurante cafuné
9.2 km
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Cafe y Restaurante La Fuente
9.2 km
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A la Gran Pizza
9.3 km
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Xela Green
9.3 km
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Baviera Café
9.3 km
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El Pasaje Mediterraneo, en El Pasaje Enriquez
9.3 km
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Osteria El Portal
9.3 km
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Rustikatto Xela
9.3 km
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Bar Salón Tecún Restaurante Pizza Bar Lounge Xela
9.3 km
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Casa Güin
9.3 km
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Sabe Delis
9.3 km
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Charlie's Restaurant & Bar
9.3 km
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Guiseppe Pizza
9.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Artesanias Xekijel
9.2 km
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Ketzali Accessories
9.4 km
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Smiley Games Xela
9.4 km
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Xela Fancy
9.7 km
Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Xela Fancy, where local culture meets contemporary style in a charming clothing store.
Little Apple Xela
9.7 km
Explore the heart of Quetzaltenango at Little Apple Xela, your go-to gift shop for authentic Guatemalan souvenirs and handicrafts.
GOMCO 03
9.8 km
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Peluche
9.8 km
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Kpopers Xela
9.9 km
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Quetzaltenango
10.0 km
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Rubiks Xela
10.0 km
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Textiles D' La Rossa Utz Ulew
10.0 km
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FRIDA ACCESORIOS XELA
10.0 km
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pradera utz uleu.
10.0 km
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Utz Ulew Mall
10.0 km
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Lili Pink Utz Ulew
10.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Si señor Resto-bar 2.
8.6 km
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Black and White
9.2 km
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El Shamrock
9.3 km
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El punto Restobar Xela
9.3 km
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El Portal De La Quinta
9.3 km
Discover the lively essence of Quetzaltenango at El Portal De La Quinta, where local culture meets an extraordinary pub experience.
Si Señor Resto-bar, Xela.
9.3 km
Experience Quetzaltenango's vibrant nightlife at Si Señor Resto-bar, where local flavors meet lively ambiance for an unforgettable night.
Show time lounge
9.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Show Time Lounge in Quezaltenango, where great drinks and live entertainment await.
Silver Moon Xela
9.4 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Silver Moon Xela, where delicious grilled dishes meet local charm in the heart of Quetzaltenango.
TrovaRock Xela
9.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Quetzaltenango at TrovaRock Xela, a premier grill and bar that captures the essence of local cuisine.
Anclas Xela
9.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Quetzaltenango at Anclas Xela, where local culture meets a lively bar atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
La Buba Gastro & Pub
9.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Quetzaltenango at La Buba Gastro & Pub, a must-visit bar for tourists seeking local culinary delights.
La Cantería
9.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of La Cantería, a must-visit bar in Quetzaltenango, where local flavors and vibrant nightlife come together.
Sky Bar Xela
10.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and a relaxing atmosphere at Sky Bar Xela in Quetzaltenango, where every sip is a moment to cherish.
Mamazzita Disco Bar
10.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Mamazzita Disco Bar in Quetzaltenango, where culture meets rhythm with every beat.
Sixth State of Mind
10.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Sixth State of Mind in Quetzaltenango, where local culture meets refreshing drinks and unforgettable experiences.
