3-Day Acatenango & Fuego Volcanoes Doubleheader Hike in Antigua, Guatemala: A Complete Guide

Are you looking to add a little adventure to your Antiguan vacation? Then join us on a 3-day hike to two majestic volcanoes: Fuego and Acatenango. This package tour combines two classic hikes and includes transportation, two meals a day (vegetarian-friendly) and an overnight stay at a local campground. Most importantly, you’ll be accompanied by professional guides and well-equipped with all the necessary safety gear, making this experience suitable for both beginner and expert hikers alike.

A Brief History of the Fuego & Acatenango Volcanoes

Before you embark upon your journey, it helps to have a better understanding of the Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes you will be exploring.

The Fuego volcano is one of the three main volcanoes found in Guatemala and backs up against the Agua volcano directly in the north. It’s considered the most active of the three volcanoes and its major eruptions date back to 1524, as chronicled by Bishop of Chiapas Diego de Landa Calderón in his writings. The last major eruption was in February 2021, following a period of decreased activity in 2014.

Acatenango volcano is situated south of the Fuego volcano at an elevation of 3976 meters (13,000 ft). The dormant volcano is made up of three peaks: Pico Mayor (highest), El Parador, and Yepocapa. On the slopes of Acatenango, you can find unique wildlife, large plantations and rolling hills. In addition to its stunning views, Acatenango also offers some of the best trekking in the region.

What to Expect From This Doubleheader Hike

Day 1 begins with a pick-up at your hotel in Antigua where you’ll be driven for about an hour and a half before arriving at your first destination: Fuego volcano. This hike generally takes between 3-4 hours and is considered to be intermediate difficulty. Henceforth, as you ascend, be prepared to cross rivers and ascend upon ash trails. As you make your way up, you’ll have time to soak in the views of the surrounding countryside. Once you reach the top, you can admire the inside of the crater and its tranquil lake. Then after the descent, the evening will be spent camping, preparing for day two!

Day 2: The Ascent of Acatenango Volcano

On day two you’ll know exactly what to pack as you’ve got all your camping gear set from the night before. You will depart early in the morning, around 4am and drive towards Acatenango base camp where your professional guides will join your team. Here’s where the real challenge begins! Although it will take between 5-8 hours to make it to the top of this dormant volcano, it’s well worth the effort. Along your journey, you’ll be surrounded by dense vegetation including a variety of animal species such as tapirs, white-tailed deer and various types of birds.

Once you reach the top, be prepared to be amazed by breathtaking views in all directions. Words cannot do justice for what’s in store for you here: dense foliage paired with multiple craters which act as lakes – all cooked in a stunning foggy backdrop. This spectacular sight is best enjoyed directly from the summit so be sure to take some time here for yoga or simply soaking in the view. After this, it’s time to head down to your campsite where you can spend your time unwinding from a successful summit!

Day 3: The Descent

And finally, after two incredible days spent out in nature, it’s time to make your way back down to Antigua. Your guides will provide transport back to your hotel after an unforgettable experience spent exploring two volcanoes!

Things You Will Need for this Trip

To get the most out of this 3-day adventure, there are some essentials you’ll need during your trekking which include:

• Hiking boots
• Comfortable pants & shirt
• Warm jacket & hat
• Sunscreen
• Canteen or water bottle
• Camera
• Bug repellent

It’s also recommended to bring snacks such as trail mix and energy bars so you don’t feel too drained during your ascent.
In addition to this list, if you’re planning on staying overnight at one of the campsites then bring additional items such as an air mattress, sleeping bag and flashlight too.

Top Tips for the Best Experience Possible

• Start early just like any hike; give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination before nightfall.
• Stay hydrated during your hikes by bringing at least one liter of water per person per day.
• Take rests whenever needed as there’s no rush and nobody is pushing for a certain pace.
• Keep an eye out for different wildlife species, who are used to visitors by now – some even let themselves be petted!
• Be respectful to the mountain and its nature by not throwing away any trash and leaving only footprints behind.
• Bring a camera and get yourself some amazing shots that you won’t forget anytime soon!

Logistics: How to Book a Trip and Where?

If all this sounds amazing to you (which it should), then your next step is booking your trip! Here at GetYourGuide we offer a best-in-class 3-day tour which includes professional English-speaking guides who have extensive knowledge about each and every nook and corner of Antigua Guatemala’s fascinating mountain range.
Book this trip here. We assure you won’t regret it! Safe travels!