Acatenango Volcano 2-Day Hike

The Acatenango Volcano 2-Day Hike is a captivating outdoor adventure that takes hikers to the summit of Central America’s third-highest peak. This guided excursion promises an exhilarating trek through diverse ecosystems, culminating in breathtaking views and a unique opportunity to witness the active Fuego Volcano’s eruptions. With expert guidance, freshly prepared meals, and a stunning campsite overlooking the Fuego, this hike offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the journey is not without its challenges, as hikers must be prepared for the physical demands of the ascent.

Key Points

• A 2-day excursion to summit Acatenango Volcano, the 3rd highest in Central America at 3,975m, with panoramic vistas and views of the active Fuego Volcano.
• The hike includes camping below the tree-line with opportunities to observe Fuego’s eruptions, scenic landscapes, and starry skies.
• The itinerary involves hiking through four microclimates, reaching the summit on the second day, and returning to Antigua in the early afternoon.
• The package includes round-trip transportation, meals, camping gear, and a local bilingual guide with certified first-aid training.
• Proper gear, such as hiking boots, a large backpack, warm clothing, and water, is required for a comfortable and successful hike.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Hike

The Acatenango Volcano hike is a popular 2-day excursion located in Guatemala. Priced from Q5,533 per person, this activity takes hikers to the 3rd highest volcano in Central America, standing at 3,975m (12,720ft).

The hike is available with check-in times, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Guides provide services in Spanish, English, and French.

Participants will experience diverse ecosystems, panoramic views, and an overnight stay at a campsite overlooking the active Fuego Volcano.

Hikers should come prepared with proper gear, including hiking boots, a large backpack, warm clothing, and plenty of water.

Experience Highlights

Acatenango Volcano’s summit stands as the 3rd highest in Central America, reaching an impressive 3,975m (12,720ft). Trekkers are rewarded with diverse ecosystems, from cornfields to old-growth forests, and panoramic vistas.

The highlight of the hike is the opportunity to camp overlooking the active Fuego Volcano, just 4km away. This allows for unparalleled observation of the volcano’s eruptions and the stunning night sky.

The camping experience itself is exceptional, with a scenic campsite and starry skies that create lasting memories.

Some key highlights of the Acatenango hike include:

• Summiting the 3rd highest volcano in Central America
• Observing the active Fuego Volcano from your campsite
• Taking in diverse ecosystems and panoramic views
• Enjoying a scenic and comfortable overnight camping experience

Itinerary Details

The 2-day Acatenango Volcano hike begins with a departure from Old Town Outfitters in Antigua at 8:00am. The group then drives to the La Soledad village and hikes through four distinct microclimates before setting up camp below the tree-line with views of the Antigua valley and Fuego volcano. On day two, an early breakfast is followed by a 45-minute ascent to the summit, where 360-degree views can be enjoyed before descending back to La Soledad and returning to Antigua by early afternoon.

Day 1	Day 2
Depart from Old Town Outfitters at 8:00am	Early breakfast
Hike through four distinct microclimates	45-minute ascent to the summit
Camp setup below tree-line with valley and volcano views	Enjoy 360-degree views
Camp dinner and relaxation	Descend back to La Soledad

Included Services

Round-trip transportation from the Old Town Outfitters office in Antigua, freshly prepared meals, camping gear, and a local bilingual guide with certified first-aid training are all included in the Acatenango Volcano 2-day hike package.

The meals include a picnic lunch, dinner, breakfast, and snacks to fuel your adventure.

The provided camping gear consists of sleeping bags, pads, and tents to ensure a comfortable overnight stay.

Participants are responsible for bringing their own:

• Hiking boots
• Large-capacity backpack
• Warm clothing
• Minimum of 4 liters of water

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Feedback

Reviewers have consistently praised the Acatenango Volcano hike, awarding it an impressive 5-out-of-5 rating based on 8 reviews. Guests have highlighted the attentiveness, knowledge, and support provided by the local bilingual guides. The meals have been described as delicious and energizing, while the ease of communication and helpfulness from the company have also been noted. To enhance the experience, participants are recommended to bring wet wipes, a headlamp, hiking poles, and warm clothing for the cold nights.

Positive Feedback	Reviewer Ratings
Knowledgeable Guides	5/5
Delicious Meals	5/5
Helpful Company	5/5
Recommended Gear	N/A

Packing Essentials

To ensure a comfortable and successful Acatenango Volcano hike, participants should pack a few essential items. The hiking boots, large-capacity backpack, and at least 4 liters of water are musts.

Warm clothing, like layers and a jacket, are crucial for the cold nights at the campsite. Plus, a headlamp and hiking poles can be invaluable for the trek.

Other recommended items include:

• Wet wipes
• Personal toiletries
• First-aid kit
• Snacks and energy bars

Safety Considerations

Safety is a paramount concern for the Acatenango Volcano hike. All participants must wear sturdy hiking boots and bring adequate supplies of water and snacks.

The trail can be strenuous, and hikers should be prepared for sudden weather changes. Guides are trained in first aid and carry emergency equipment. Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions should consult their doctor before the hike.

Though the views are stunning, caution is advised near the active Fuego Volcano. Hikers must follow the guide’s instructions and stay on designated paths.

With proper preparation and safety measures, the Acatenango hike can be an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Getting There and Back

The hike to Acatenango Volcano kicks off with a pickup from the Old Town Outfitters office in Antigua. From there, it’s a drive to the trailhead at the La Soledad village.

The hike through four distinct microclimates takes participants on a journey through cornfields, old-growth forests, and stunning panoramic views.

After setting up camp below the tree-line, hikers can look forward to:

• Breathtaking views of the Antigua valley and the active Fuego Volcano
• A hearty camp dinner and relaxation under the starry night sky
• An early morning push to the summit, offering 360-degree vistas
• A descent back to La Soledad before returning to Antigua in the afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hike Suitable for Beginners or Experienced Hikers?

The hike is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. Guides provide support, and the itinerary includes gradual ascents through diverse terrain, making it accessible to those with varying fitness levels and hiking experience.

What Is the Weather Like During the Hike?

The weather during the hike can be variable, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Participants should prepare for both warm and cold conditions, as well as the possibility of rain or wind, especially at night while camping.

Is There a Limit on Group Size or Age Requirements?

The tour has no set group size limit, but hikers must be at least 14 years old. Physical fitness is required as the hike involves long distances and steep terrain. Families and children are welcome if capable of the full itinerary.

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear Instead of the Provided Equipment?

Yes, participants can bring their own camping gear instead of using the equipment provided. The company allows hikers to use their personal equipment, as long as it meets the necessary safety and quality standards for the trek.

Is There Any Opportunity to See Wildlife or Indigenous Cultural Sites?

While the hike focuses on the volcano and camping, there may be opportunities to spot local wildlife and visit nearby indigenous cultural sites, depending on the route and guide’s knowledge. However, these aspects are not the main focus of the experience.

Recap

The Acatenango Volcano 2-Day Hike offers an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. With expert guidance, stunning scenery, and the chance to witness Fuego Volcano’s eruptions, it’s a must-do experience. Hikers can expect a challenging but rewarding journey, complete with comfortable camping facilities and delicious meals. For those seeking an extraordinary volcano trekking experience in Central America, the Acatenango Volcano 2-Day Hike is the perfect choice.

You can check if your dates are available here: