About Guatemala

With a summit elevation of 3,976 m Acatenango Volcano is one of the highest peaks in Guatemala and Central America. It will provide the experience hiker one of the nicest hikes of the area and those who are not used to hike even they might find it difficult at some points, it will worth every step to the top (I promise).

Perhaps a lot of you people climb Pacaya already while you were in Guatemala, so if you think is going to be as easy or there will be horses to take you to the top in case you get tired you are totally wrong. Pacaya is a walk in the park compare to Acatenango and you definitely will need a guide there.

I would divided the hike in 4 stages, been the first part one of most difficult with lots of volcanic sand that makes every step exhausting. My friend saw me having a hard time here and lend me one of his walking sticks and it made wonders, so if you are doing this trip make sure to bring yours since they will help a lot. The second part is the easiest one, with some trails that makes things much more easier so take your time and enjoy the view. The part that follows is a bit more difficult, and it will lead you to the top of the first peak and once you do it you will be one hour away from your goal. Also, take at least 20 minutes once you reach the final stage of this part since the view is already breathtaking and if you have nice weather with no clouds you will be able to see almost all Guatemala from here already. The final part is only an hour, but it will be the most difficult one, with a lot of sand like the first stage but add more inclination and altitude.

It took me and my friends to reach the top in 7 hours, we were exhausted, dirty but with a big smile in our faces. We just lay down there, feeling the burning sun in our faces and watching Fuego Volcano right in front of us while we ate the rest of our food… that we deserved so much.

But then happiness suddenly fades away when you remember you still have to get down and don’t think it would be easy, after 7 hours of hiking the muscles will feel every step down as well.

Without a doubt one of the best things I ever done in Guatemala, and looking forward for more experiences like this.

The sad part is since I done it, I heard there is been some safety issues in Acatenango. If you would like to do this make sure to do it with a travel agency and ask what is the situation on the time been.