How to Plan Your Acatenango Volcano Trek & Tour from Antigua 2D/1N

Are you a nature enthusiast and looking for a fun adventure on your next trip to Panajachel? Look no further than the Acatenango Volcano Trek & Tour. This 2-day, 1-night tour will take you on an exhilarating hike up the Acatenango volcano and offer the opportunity to take in the amazing views of the surrounding landscape. In this guide, we’ll go through everything you need to know to plan your tour, from the experience and highlights, to the full description and how to book.

Experience and Highlights

This tour provides an amazing experience for those who love to explore Mother Nature. The highlights include:

– Take in the astounding view from your spot at Mirador Mendez
– Hike to the indigenous village of Santa Catarina Palopo
– Go kayaking on Lake Atitlán, the deepest lake in Central America
– Eat a traditional lunch with a Mayan family

Full Description

The first day of the tour starts in Antigua and includes a hike up to the camp. The total hiking time is approximately 5 hours with several stops for rest, hydration, and food. Upon reaching the camp, you will have the chance to take in the incredible views from Mirador Mendez.

There is also an optional visit to the Fire Volcano on the first day with an additional hike of 3 hours round trip. Those who wish to undertake this challenge should confirm this at the time of booking to assign an experienced guide for the Fire Volcano. The cost for this additional excursion is Q200 per person.

During the tour, accommodation will be provided in shared tents.

On day two, the tour begins with a 4 am start to the ascent of the summit of Acatenango. Around 5:45 am, you’ll arrive at the summit to witness a breathtaking sunrise view. You’ll then begin your descent from the summit to reach the campsite for breakfast, team review, and to begin the steep descent down to La Soledad Village. The tour ends at around 12:30 pm in Antigua Gu.

Booking the Tour

To book the Acatenango Volcano Trek & Tour from Antigua, simply follow this link and follow the instructions on the website. The tour is offered by a third-party company, so be sure to review their cancellation policy and know all of the details before booking.

Summary

Overall, the Acatenango Volcano Trek & Tour from Antigua is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. With the gorgeous views, hiking opportunities, kayaking, traditional food, and chance to explore indigenous culture, this tour provides a wealth of unique experiences. Book your tour today and start your adventure in Panajachel.

An Insider’s Guide to Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua is a small, historical city located in the central highlands of Guatemala, and is known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful scenery. As a popular tourist destination, it offers a variety of local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for anyone looking for adventure.

Local Attractions

1. Volcan de Agua: Standing over 12,000 feet tall, this active volcano is an excellent choice for a challenging day hike.

2. La Merced Church: This beautiful Baroque church is one of Antigua’s most famous landmarks and has a fascinating history.

3. Central Park: The bustling center of town is full of vendors and street performers, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

4. Cerro de la Cruz: This short walk up to the viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the city.

Dining Spots

1. Carmen: This trendy restaurant offers modern takes on traditional Guatemalan dishes and boasts an extensive wine list.

2. Frida’s: A colorful and cozy spot for brunch that serves up delicious baked goods and bottomless coffee.

3. Luna de Miel: A romantic, candlelit courtyard that serves local dishes with a twist, including vegetarian options.

4. Como Como: A fun and lively spot for drinks and bites, with live music on the weekends and an impressive selection of mezcal.

Cultural Experiences

1. Coffee Tour: Antigua is known for its coffee, and a tour of a local coffee farm and roastery is a must for caffeine lovers.

2. ChocoMuseo: Learn about the history of chocolate in Guatemala and participate in a chocolate-making workshop.

3. Nim Po’t: A unique cultural center and market that promotes traditional Guatemalan textile arts.

4. Casa Santo Domingo Museum: A museum that showcases the history of the Dominican Order in Guatemala and houses an impressive collection of colonial art.

Local History

1. Antigua Guatemala Cathedral: This grand cathedral was finished in 1680 and has an interesting history of earthquakes and restoration.

2. Pasaje Enriquez: This historic passageway full of shops and restaurants was once a bustling center of trade in colonial times.

3. Iglesia y Convento de las Capuchinas: This 18th-century convent turned museum offers a glimpse into the life of nuns in colonial Guatemala.

4. La Antigua Casa de la Moneda: A beautiful colonial building that houses a museum dedicated to the history of currency in Guatemala.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Pacaya Volcano: A hike up to this active volcano’s summit offers breathtaking views and the chance to roast marshmallows on the lava flows.

2. Hobbitenango: A quirky, Lord of the Rings-inspired hobbit village nestled in the hills outside of Antigua.

3. Earth Lodge: This eco-lodge offers stunning views of the valley below and is a perfect spot for camping, hiking, or just relaxing.

4. Lake Atitlán: A day trip to this deep blue crater lake surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages is a must for anyone visiting Antigua.

Overall, Antigua offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and adventure to satisfy any traveler. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, this charming city has something for everyone.