How to Plan Your Acatenango Volcano 2-Day Hike from Antigua Guatemala

If you are looking for an adventure while in Guatemala, hiking the Acatenango Volcano should be on your bucket list. This two-day hike takes you up the slopes of Volcan Acatenango, the third highest volcano in Guatemala, and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is challenging, but the experience is unforgettable. Here is everything you need to know to plan your Acatenango Volcano 2-day hike from Antigua Guatemala.

Experience

The Acatenango Volcano 2-day hike is an adventure of a lifetime. It takes you through a maze of corn old growth forests and a barren summit of scree. You will watch the microclimates and terrain change around you in this diverse ecosystem. On the hike, you will enjoy breathtaking 360° views of all that Guatemala has to offer. One incredible aspect of the hike is that you will spend time watching nearby volcan Fuego erupt from an incredible viewpoint just 4km away. After a day of hiking, you will spend a night under the stars at a beautiful campsite overlooking the active Volcan Fuego. Finally, on the morning of the second day, you will summit Acatenango’s peak at 3975m/12720ft—a tremendous accomplishment that rewards you with panoramic views from atop the summit.

Highlights

• Walk through a maze of corn old growth forests and a barren summit of scree
• Watch the microclimates and terrain change around you in this diverse ecosystem
• Enjoy breathtaking 360° views of all that Guatemala has to offer
• Spend time watching Volcan Fuego erupt from an incredible viewpoint just 4km away
• Spend a night under the stars at a beautiful campsite overlooking the active Volcan Fuego
• Summit Acatenango’s peak and take in panoramic views from atop the summit

How to Prepare for Your Acatenango Volcano 2-Day Hike

Before beginning the hike, you want to ensure that you are in good physical condition. The hike is though and ascends up to 3963 meters. Therefore, catching your breath at this altitude can be difficult, particularly if you have not acclimatized. Therefore, we recommend spending a few days in Antigua Guatemala to allow your body to acclimatize to the altitude.

You also need to ensure that you have the following essential gear:

• Warm jacket
• Wool or fleece gloves
• Beanie or wool hat
• Thermal underwear
• Waterproof hiking boots
• 50-60-liter backpack
• Sleeping bag that can resist temperatures of about -4°C/25°F or less
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, wet wipes, etc.)
• Hiking trousers
• Water purification tablets or system
• Camera with extra batteries

How to Book the Tour

To book your Acatenango Volcano 2-day hike, you can click on the following link: book the tour here. This link will take you to the official tour booking page on GetYourGuide.com, where you can choose the tour date and opt for any additional services, such as hotel pickup and dropoff.

Conclusion

Hiking the Acatenango Volcano is an unforgettable experience that rewards you with stunning views of the Guatemalan landscape. This guide provides you with all the necessary information to plan your Acatenango Volcano 2-day hike from Antigua Guatemala successfully. So pack your bags, get your gear ready, and embark on an adventure like no other.

The Insider’s Guide to Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala is a charming and historic city located in the central highlands of Guatemala. It was once the capital of Guatemala until it was devastated by an earthquake in 1773. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hub for culture, history, and adventure in the country. Here is your insider’s guide to this beautiful city.

Attractions

Antigua Guatemala is home to a variety of attractions that make it a popular destination for travelers. Here are some of the top attractions in the city that you don’t want to miss:

1. The Santa Catalina Arch

The Santa Catalina Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in Antigua Guatemala. It was originally built to connect the Santa Catalina convent to a school, which was later destroyed in an earthquake. Today, the arch is a popular spot for taking photos and admiring the view of the city.

2. The Central Park

The Central Park is the heart of Antigua Guatemala. It is a public space located in the center of the city, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. The park is a great place to relax, people-watch, and soak up the atmosphere of the city.

3. The Cerro de la Cruz

The Cerro de la Cruz is a hill located just outside of Antigua Guatemala that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes. To get there, you can hike up the hill or take a taxi. It’s a great place to watch the sunset and take photos.

Dining

Antigua Guatemala is known for its delicious food, including traditional Guatemalan dishes and a variety of international cuisine. Here are some of the best dining spots in the city:

1. Rainbow Café

The Rainbow Café is a popular restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. It has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, with live music performances in the evenings.

2. Café Condesa

Café Condesa is a charming café located in a historic building in the center of Antigua Guatemala. It serves a variety of coffee, tea, and light snacks. It’s a great place to relax and take a break from exploring the city.

3. Rincon Tipico

Rincon Tipico is a local restaurant that serves traditional Guatemalan food. It’s a great place to try dishes like pepian, chiles rellenos, and tamales. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.

Cultural Experiences

Antigua Guatemala is rich in culture and history, with a variety of museums, galleries, and cultural events. Here are some of the top cultural experiences in the city:

1. The Museo de Santiago

The Museo de Santiago is a museum located in a historic building in Antigua Guatemala. It showcases the history and culture of the city and the surrounding region, including exhibits on Mayan culture and colonial history.

2. The Antigua Cultural Center

The Antigua Cultural Center is a gallery and cultural center that hosts a variety of art exhibitions, concerts, and performances. It’s a great place to learn about local culture and connect with the creative community in Antigua Guatemala.

3. La Merced Church

La Merced Church is a beautiful colonial-era church located in the center of Antigua Guatemala. Its ornate façade features intricate carvings and decorations. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with stunning architecture and religious art.

Local History

Antigua Guatemala has a rich and complex history that is still visible in the city’s architecture, culture, and traditions. Here are some of the key historical highlights:

1. The Colonial Era

Antigua Guatemala was founded in the early 16th century and became the capital of Guatemala. It was an important center of colonial power and wealth, with many impressive churches, mansions, and public buildings built during this time.

2. The Earthquake of 1773

In 1773, Antigua Guatemala was devastated by a massive earthquake that destroyed much of the city’s architecture. The capital was moved to present-day Guatemala City, and Antigua Guatemala was largely abandoned for many years.

3. The Independence Era

Antigua Guatemala played an important role in the struggle for Guatemalan independence in the 19th century. The city was a center of activity for revolutionaries who sought to overthrow the Spanish colonial government.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to explore Antigua Guatemala beyond the usual tourist spots, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

1. Santo Domingo Xenacoj

Santo Domingo Xenacoj is a small town located just outside of Antigua Guatemala. It’s known for its traditional textiles and handicrafts, which are made using ancient techniques. You can visit local cooperatives to see how these crafts are made and purchase souvenirs.

2. The Macadamia Nut Farm

The Macadamia Nut Farm is a small and sustainable farm located just outside of Antigua Guatemala. The farm grows organic macadamia nuts and offers tours where you can learn about the process of growing and harvesting the nuts.

3. The Hobbitenango Eco Park

The Hobbitenango Eco Park is a quirky and fun destination located on a hill overlooking Antigua Guatemala. The park features hobbit-themed cabins, a restaurant, and hiking trails with stunning views of the city and surrounding volcanoes. It’s a great place for a family adventure or a unique date night.

Conclusion

Antigua Guatemala is a fascinating and beautiful city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, adventure, or simply relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere, there are plenty of things to see and do in Antigua Guatemala. Hopefully, this insider’s guide has given you some inspiration for your next trip to this incredible destination.