How to Plan Your 3 Day Acatenango & Fuego Volcanoes Doubleheader Hike in Antigua Guatemala

Are you excited to experience the thrill of hiking up two majestic volcanoes in Antigua Guatemala? Look no further than this 3-day/2-night hike up the slopes of Acatenango and Fuego! Here’s everything you need to know to plan your adventure.

Experience

On this tour, you will hike up two iconic volcanoes in Antigua Guatemala and have the opportunity to spend a night under the stars watching Volcan Fuego erupt. You’ll bag two peaks, hike through five microclimates and old growth forests across a wide variety of terrain, and take in incredible 360° views from atop Acatenango, Guatemala’s third-highest volcano. Plus, you’ll walk up Fuego’s ridge and hope to feel a rumbling eruption from just beyond the cone.

Highlights

Some of the tour’s main highlights include:

• Hiking up Volcan Acatenango to a private campsite bench-cut into the side of the mountain
• Watching Volcan Fuego’s violent eruptions from your campsite
• Hiking across and up Volcan Fuego on Day 2 of the tour
• Lunch beneath Fuego’s smoldering caldera
• Enjoying fresh food and a warm fire at camp

Full Description

The first day of the tour begins with a hike up the slopes of Volcan Acatenango to our private campsite. Along the way, you’ll encounter five different microclimates and old growth forests on a variety of terrain. You’ll also trek down a 1,000-foot volcanic scree run before arriving at the campsite. Once you reach camp, you’ll enjoy incredible views and the sounds of nearby Volcan Fuego’s eruptions. You’ll also have plenty of space to stretch out and relax. Overnight camping gear and meals will be provided, so you can enjoy a carefree night under the stars. On Day 2 of the tour, you’ll hike across and up Volcan Fuego. Your guide will lead you up Fuego’s ridge, where you’ll hopefully feel a rumbling eruption from just beyond the cone. After that, you’ll have lunch beneath Fuego’s smoldering caldera before making the return hike to the campsite. After arriving back at camp, you’ll enjoy another evening of fresh food and a warm fire (weather permitting!). On the final day of the tour, you’ll hike back down the slopes of Volcan Acatenango and return to Antigua Guatemala.

Booking Your Tour

Ready to book your adventure? You can book your tour through GetYourGuide by clicking here. GetYourGuide is a trusted third-party provider that offers easy booking and cancellation policies, so you can book with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Hiking up Acatenango and Fuego is an incredible adventure that you won’t forget. By following these tips and booking your tour through GetYourGuide, you’ll be well-prepared for your journey. So, grab your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Antigua Guatemala FAQ – Everything You Need to Know

Antigua Guatemala is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the central highlands of Guatemala, in the valley of Panchoy. Antigua Guatemala, also known simply as Antigua, is a colonial-era city and a popular tourist destination in the country. Here is everything you need to know about Antigua Guatemala.

1. What is the best time to visit Antigua Guatemala?

The best time to visit Antigua Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, with very little rainfall. The months of March and April are particularly popular as they coincide with the city’s Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebration, which is a must-see event.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua Guatemala has many tourist attractions, including:

• The Santa Catalina Arch: One of the most iconic landmarks in the city, the Santa Catalina Arch is a beautiful yellow archway that dates back to the 17th century.
• The Church and Convent of Capuchins: A beautiful colonial-era church and convent that is home to several religious artifacts.
• The Antigua Guatemala Cathedral: This is a beautiful cathedral that was built in the 16th century and is considered one of the most important religious structures in the country.
• The Central Park: The Central Park is a beautiful public space located in the heart of Antigua. It is surrounded by historic buildings and is a great place to relax and people-watch.
• The Jade Museum: This museum showcases the history and importance of Jade in Guatemalan culture and features a wide variety of jade items, including jewelry, sculptures, and pottery.

3. Is Antigua Guatemala safe for tourists?

Like many tourist destinations, Antigua Guatemala has its fair share of crime and safety concerns. However, the city is generally safe for tourists who take the necessary precautions. It is advised that visitors stick to well-lit and populated areas, avoid walking alone at night, and keep an eye on their belongings at all times.

4. What are some popular activities to do in Antigua Guatemala?

There are many activities to do in Antigua Guatemala, including:

• Exploring the city: Antigua Guatemala is a beautiful and historic city that is best explored on foot. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the colonial-era streets and enjoy the vibrant colors and beautiful architecture.
• Hiking Pacaya Volcano: Pacaya Volcano is an active volcano located just outside of Antigua Guatemala. Visitors can take a hike up the volcano and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding area.
• Taking a cooking class: Guatemalan cuisine is delicious and unique. Visitors can take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional dishes like tamales and chiles rellenos.
• Shopping at the markets: Antigua Guatemala is home to several markets where visitors can purchase local crafts, textiles, and other souvenirs.
• Attending a cultural event: Antigua Guatemala is known for its rich cultural traditions. Visitors can attend events like the Semana Santa celebration or the annual kite festival.

5. What is the currency in Antigua Guatemala?

The currency in Antigua Guatemala is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). US dollars are also widely accepted in many tourist areas. Visitors can exchange money at banks or use ATMs to withdraw cash.

6. What is the official language in Antigua Guatemala?

The official language of Antigua Guatemala is Spanish. However, many people in the city also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

7. What is the weather like in Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua Guatemala has a pleasant climate with temperatures averaging around 72°F (22°C). The city has two distinct seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October). During the rainy season, the city experiences daily afternoon showers.

8. What is the food like in Antigua Guatemala?

Guatemalan cuisine is delicious and unique, with a mix of Spanish, Caribbean, and Mayan influences. Some popular dishes to try in Antigua Guatemala include tamales (steamed corn dough filled with meat or vegetables), chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers), and pepian (a traditional stew made with chicken or beef).

9. How do I get to Antigua Guatemala?

The nearest airport to Antigua Guatemala is La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. From there, visitors can take a taxi or shuttle to Antigua Guatemala. It is also possible to take a bus from other parts of the country.

10. What are some popular day trips from Antigua Guatemala?

There are many popular day trips to take from Antigua Guatemala, including:

• Lake Atitlan: Lake Atitlan is a beautiful lake located about 2 hours from Antigua Guatemala. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake and enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Chichicastenango: Chichicastenango is a colorful town located about 2 hours from Antigua Guatemala. It is home to one of the largest markets in the country and is a great place to purchase local crafts and textiles.
• Tikal: Tikal is a Mayan archaeological site located in the northern part of the country. Visitors can take a day trip from Antigua Guatemala and explore the ancient ruins.

Final Thoughts

Antigua Guatemala is a beautiful and historic city with many things to see and do. Visitors can explore the colonial-era streets, hike up a volcano, or attend a cultural event. By taking the necessary precautions, visitors can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to this incredible destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Antigua Guatemala

If you are planning to visit Antigua Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you are in for a treat. This beautiful city is known for its colonial architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. Here’s a guide on how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Antigua Guatemala.

1. Explore the City’s Architecture and Landmarks

Antigua Guatemala is famous for its impressive colonial architecture, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore. The city is home to numerous churches, monasteries, and ruins that reflect the country’s rich history and culture. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Santa Catalina Arch, which dates back to the 17th century. This bright yellow archway overlooks the city and is a popular spot for taking photos. Other must-see landmarks include the La Merced Church, San Francisco Church, and the Palace of the Captains General.

2. Visit the Local Markets

Antigua Guatemala’s local markets are a vibrant part of its culture and are a must-see for any tourist. The most popular market is the Mercado de Artesanias, which sells a wide range of handmade crafts including textiles, pottery, and jewelry. You can also find fresh produce and traditional food in the local markets.

3. Experience the Local Cuisine

Guatemalan cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique ingredients, so trying the local cuisine is a must. Some of the most popular dishes include pepian, tamales, and chiles rellenos. You can find these dishes in local restaurants or at street vendors.

4. Take a Cooking Class

If you want to learn more about Guatemalan cuisine, consider taking a cooking class. Many local restaurants and cooking schools offer classes where you can learn how to make traditional dishes such as chiles rellenos or tortillas.

5. Attend a Cultural Event

Antigua Guatemala is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and there are numerous events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Day of the Dead, Semana Santa, and the Independence Day celebrations. These events are a great way to experience local traditions and culture.

6. Explore the Natural Surroundings

Antigua Guatemala is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore them. You can hike the Pacaya Volcano, visit the stunning Lake Atitlan, or take a trip to the nearby hot springs.

7. Take a Spanish Language Class

If you’re interested in learning Spanish, Antigua Guatemala is a great place to do so. The city is known for its Spanish language schools, and you can take classes with experienced teachers to improve your skills.

Book Your Tour Now

Antigua Guatemala is a beautiful city with a rich culture and history. There are plenty of things to see and do, from exploring the city’s architecture and landmarks to experiencing the local cuisine. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Antigua Guatemala and create memories that will last a lifetime.