acatenango volcano overnight tour

Acatenango Overnight Hike

• Acatenango Hike
• Volcano Tours

The Acatenango Overnight Hike is such a special adventure and currently Antigua, Guatemala’s most popular among travelers. Volcan Acatenango is the beautiful beast that started it all for OX back in 2004.  With an elevation of 3976 meters it is the third highest volcano in Central America. This epic hike takes you to the summit of the most beautiful volcano in Guatemala with incredible views of the active Fuego volcano.

Acatenango hike: Overnight

The Acatenango Overnight Trip is for many travelers the highlight of their tour through Central America. Although big and a challenging hike the reward of staying in comfortable wood cabins with stunning views of the active Fuego Volcano is simply amazing. 

Our professional guide team and organized procedures work hard to manage the unpredictable chaos of mother nature to provide a high quality experience. It’s all about the details. We want each and every client to have an enjoyable time no matter where the adventure takes us. Another thing that sets us apart is we really care about the environment. We try to minimise our impact on the fragile volcanic ecosystem that we love so much. The wood used for our campsite came from a sustainable source, we transported it all up the volcano and didn’t use any of the  trees growing on the volcano.  We are also committed to reducing the amount of litter on the volcano in general and offer our clients the opportunity to earn a free T-Shirt if they help use collect litter from the trail on the way back down the volcano.

ACATENANGO OVERNIGHT HIKE : TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Without doubt the most epic part of this adventure camping experience is watching the Fuego Volcano erupt with lava and a boom from the comfort of your wood cabin!

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Acatenango Overnight Hike: Best time to climb

At OX Expeditions we run the Acatenango Guatemala Overnight trip all year round. In Antigua, Guatemala there is a 6 month dry season from November – April, and a 6 month wet season from May – October. However this does not guarantee that you will have great weather in the dry season and bad weather in the wet season! We think it is great to do the Acatenango climb all year round but from Nov – Apr you are more likely to have clear views and less likely to get wet. Having said that in the rainy season it usually is clear and sunny in the morning, clouding over at midday and rains for a couple of hours in the afternoon and then clears up again in the evening. This is why we leave Antigua earlier than other Acatenango tour companies; so we can get to the campsite before the time it usually starts to rain.

Acatenango and Fuego hike: The Double Whammy

Want to combine the Acatenango Overnight Hike and Fuego Hike?  Then the Double Whammy is for you! We hike to our Acatenango base camp, have a quick rest, leave our camping gear and then head over to Volcan Fuego. First we descend the slopes of Acatenango to the saddle in between the two volcanoes, then we head up onto the shoulder of Fuego volcano. We get as close as is safely possible and weather permitting have a coffee or some wine on the knife-ridge watching the eruptions up close! We then retrace our steps to base camp for some well earned dinner! The next morning we hike to the summit Acatenango for amazing 360 degree views and then head back down to base camp and from there back to base of the volcano.

Book Now, Deposit $29

Acatenango Overnight hike: Temperature

The temperature on the Acatenango Tour can vary greatly as can Acatenango’s weather. It can be 20+ degrees Celsius (68+ Farenheit) in the day as you hike up and get down to below 0 degrees Celsius (32F) at night. The coldest (and clearest) months are generally December to February but due to Acatenango’s elevation of 3976m it is cold all year round in the upper parts of the volcano. For this reason we recommend using a 3 layer system and always bringing warm clothes. We can lend you warm clothes if you need them at no extra cost! On our Acatenango Volcano Day Hike   the temperature variation is less and you don’t need as many warm clothes, although we still recommend taking a warmer layer for the time we spend at the summit.

Acatenango Volcano Hike: Difficulty

The Acatenango Overnight Hike is difficult. One of the biggest challenges is the elevation; altitude sickness whilst normally not severe can make hiking that much harder. We always recommend being in Antigua Guatemala or a similar elevation (1500m) for at least 48 hours before doing the tour. This will give you body enough time to acclimatize and will make the climb significantly easier. If you are in fairly good shape, have acclimatized and have a good attitude you should be able to do this tour!

You hike for around 4-5 hours on the first day and reach an elevation of 3400m at our Acatenango base camp. Here we rest for the remainder of the day (unless you opt to do the Double Whammy ). The next day we get up before down to hike to the summit (1-2 hours) where we take in the amazing views, then it’s back down to base camp for breakfast and finally back to base (3 hours hiking). You are usually back in Antigua, Guatemala at about midday.

The Acatenango Day Trip   has a higher difficulty level than the overnight trip as we hike up and down all in the same day; we do however take a different route to the overnight hike. We also leave much earlier (5AM) to give you plenty of time to summit and return before night falls. The whole trip including the shuttle to and from Antigua, Guatemala normally takes 10-12 hours.

Acatenango Overnight hike: Pre trip meeting

For all our Acatenango Overnight tours we have a pre-trip meeting at 5 PM the day before the tour (3 PM on Sunday). This is the perfect opportunity for you to meet your guide and fellow hikers and ask any questions you may have. At the meeting we will explain everything about the hike; what you need to bring, what to expect in terms of weather, volcanic activity etc. It is a vital part of our preparation process and ensures you a ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Acatenango Overnight, Fuego Overnight and Double Whammy tours: What´s the difference?

The Double Whammy Tour is a combination of our Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike and our Fuego Overnight Hike . On any of these trips the first and last parts are the same. To start with we all hike to the camp site together; this takes about 5-6hrs and we arrive at around 2 PM. Then the people doing the Fuego Overnight or Double Whammy head over to the shoulder of Fuego and come back to the camp site for dinner (3-4hr round-trip). We all have dinner and wine together and sit around the campfire! Early the next day those doing the Acatenango Overnight or Double Whammy hike up to the summit of Acatenango for sunrise (this is truly magical). Then they come back down to camp and we all have breakfast together, break camp, and head back to the volcano to take the shuttle back to Antigua arriving at about 12:30 – 1 PM.

If you are booked for either the Acatenango Overnight Hike or the Fuego Overnight Hike you can decide to upgrade to the Double Whammy when you get to our camp site. This gives you the opportunity to see how you a feeling physically and mentally after you have complete the first part of the hike and if you feel up to the challenge! You can pay the difference when you get back to our office in Antigua, Guatemala.

Acatenango last eruption?

The Acatenango volcano has not erupted since circa. 1925 but it’s noisy neighbour Volcan Fuego is constantly erupting with the last major eruption being on June 4th 2018 tragically killing hundreds of people in some of the villages on the volcano’s lower slopes.

Acatenango weather forecast

The weather here is very unpredictable and the forecast in the rainy season (April – October) is nearly always thunderstorms and is often wrong. Each of the volcanoes has its own micro-climate and it is not uncommon for in to be raining in Antigua and not on Acatenango or vice-versa! For this reason we only cancel our Acatenango Volcano Tour if there is a tropical storm or severe weather forecast warning.

Acatenango deaths

On January 8th 2017 6 people tragically died of hypothermia on the Acatenango Volcano. It was reportedly due to mix of factors: the weather on Acatenango changed dramatically for the worst and the hikers were said to have been ill prepared (lacking the correct equipment and knowledge to deal with the inclement weather). It was a terrible accident made all the worse as it could have been prevented. This is why we always stress the importance of doing the trek with a reputable tour company.

 ** Please note that this itinerary can change depending on a variety of factors (weather conditions, group ability etc). Your professional guide will always prioritize the safety of the group. 

5 PM: Pre-Trip meeting the day before (3 PM on Sunday)

6:30 am – 7 am: meet at ox and packing, 7 am – 8.00 am: breakfast and coffee, 8.00 am – 9.00 am: transport from antigua to acatenango volcano, 9:00 am – 1.00 pm: hiking, 1.00 pm – 1.30 pm: lunch, 1.30 pm – 2.30 pm: hike to campsite, 2.30 pm – 4.00 pm: relax, 6.00 pm: dinner, 9:00 pm relax with a view.

4 AM – 5.30 AM: Hike to the summit

5.30 am – 6.00 am: enjoy the views, 6.00 am – 8.00 am: hike back down to base camp and breakfast, 8.00 am – 10.30/11.00 am: hike back down, 11.00 am – 12.00 am: transport back to antigua.

Two Unique Ways to Experience the Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike

Acatenango overnight hike: comfort glamping.

If you’re ready to experience Antigua’s impressive Acatenango Volcano but prefer a bit of pampering to go along with your adventure, then this is the trip for you! Our Acatenango Base Camp features large safari-style tents that fit 2-4 guests comfortably & are equipped with cots, pillows/pillow cases, and bedside tables.

Acatenango Overnight Hike: Adventure Camping

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike

Antigua’s Acatenango Volcano is a remarkable climb that stands tall at 13,041 ft / 3,976 m, and it is a must-do for most adventure travelers in Guatemala. The hike not only provides panoramic views of the entire region but also offers a unique vantage point to witness the nearby (and highly active!) Fuego Volcano has been erupting continuously since the Spanish conquistadors arrived 500 years ago.

Our Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike offers the best opportunity to experience this incredible natural wonder. Hikers get to witness awe-inspiring nighttime views of flowing lava and catch the sunrise the next morning from the summit of Acatenango. While the hike is demanding, even for the most seasoned hikers, our Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike is the perfect choice for adventure seekers looking to experience the best that Guatemala has to offer. This is an unforgettable overnight hike that you won’t want to miss!

Day Prior: Trip Briefing

Before the trip, we’ll meet with you in person to give you a pre-trip briefing at our store in central Antigua (located right behind the main Cathedral). During this briefing, we’ll go over everything you need to know about the trip, including what to pack, what to expect, and any last-minute details or questions you may have. Prefer that we come to you? Then be sure to check out our “Signature Service” add-on that also includes pick up and drop off from your location before & after the trip.

Day 1 : Hike To Camp

You depart from our store in Antigua at 8:00 am. The store also features a great café for last-minute coffee and snacks. You then set off in a private shuttle on a comfortable one-hour drive to the Mayan village of La Soledad and the Acatenango trailhead. The ascent up the 5,000 ft / 1,525 m trail takes us through four distinct ecosystems, each with its own unique charm. First up is a tapestry of fertile agricultural fields, where local farmers harvest everything from corn to snow peas. It’s a great introduction to the local way of life.

As you continue on the trail, you’ll enter the old-growth tropical cloud forest. It’s a magical place, teeming with a diversity of flora and fauna, and providing hikers with shade and comfort as you push up the steep slope.

Emerging from the cloud forest, you’ll enter a sparse high-alpine forest that opens up to reveal views of six additional volcanoes. It’s the perfect spot for a scenic trail lunch, where you can take in the breathtaking vistas.

After lunch, you’ll make the final push of the day and climb above the tree line into the fourth microclimate – a wind-swept and mystical volcanic terrain. Upon arrival to our Acatenango Base Camp at 12,300 ft / 3,750 m, you’ll find spacious safari-style canvas tents waiting for you with comfortable cots, pillows, and sweeping views of the Antigua Valley and Fuego Volcano. Then, you’ll be served appetizers and a hot dinner followed by coffee, tea, and even marshmallow “S’mores” over the campfire. Our Acatenango Base Camp looks directly over Fuego Volcano, and your evening will be spent gasping at volcanic eruptions and staring up at the mesmerizing sky full of stars above. It’s an unforgettable experience!

Day 2: Summiting Acatenango

After early morning coffee, tea, and fresh banana bread…you’ll embark on a 45-minute ascent to the summit of Acatenango. The climb may be steep, but the breathtaking views of Fuego Volcano, the Antigua Valley, and the Guatemalan highlands stretching to Mexico make it all worthwhile. At the summit, you will have a full 360-degree panoramic view to take in.

After spending approximately an hour at the top (depending on weather and timing), its back to base camp for a delicious breakfast. Then, you begin the three-hour descent back down the volcano, arriving at La Soledad and our waiting transportation by mid-day. Groups usually return to Antigua by early afternoon (~1:00 pm) with plenty of time to enjoy a celebratory beer, cappuccino, or a well-deserved siesta. Congratulations on conquering the volcano!

Rental Gear

We offer affordable rental rates for a variety of hiking gear you might need for your Acatenango Overnnight Hike. Please indicate what you need as “add on” items in the checkout process!   *Prices are per Overnight Trip

Porter Services

Many of our guests opt to hire a porter who can help carry their carry which will include 3-4 liters of extra water (10 lbs / 4.5 kg) per guest (as you hike with 2-3 L each day), sleeping bags, and personal items. Available as an “add-on” item during checkout. 

• 1 porter per guest can carry your extra water, sleeping bag, and personal items. You only carry a day pack.
• 1 porter per 2 guests can carry your extra water and sleeping bags, leaving you to carry your personal items.

Transportation Services

We offer one-way & roundtrip private, safe & comfortable transportation services for 1 to 20+ guests.     *Available as an “add-on” item during checkout. 

• Guatemala City/Airport to Antigua
• Antigua to Guatemala City/Airport
• La Soledad (Acatenango Trailhead) to Panajachel (Lake Atitlán)
• Antigua to Panajachel (Lake Atitlán)
• Panajachel (Lake Atitlán) to Antigua
• Panajachel (Lake Atitlán) to Guatemala City / Airport
• Anywhere else you’d like to go, just ask!

Upcoming Tours

9-Day Discovery Tour: 4 Guests

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: 6 Guests

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: “SOLD OUT”

Antigua to Atitlán 4-Day Trek: 4 Guests

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: 8 Guests

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: 2 Guests

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: 10 Guest

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: 5 Guest

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: 1 Guest

Antigua to Atitlán 4-Day Trek: 3 Guests

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: 4 Guests

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: 5 Guests

Acatenango Overnight: Comfort Glamping

• Each glamping tent can be reserved for 2-4 guests. If you’re a solo traveler, please contact us for options.
• Groups up to 24 guests
• Spacious safari-style 10 x 14 foot canvas tents, comfortable cots & bedside table, pillows & pillow cases, trekking poles & camp chairs
• Pre-departure packing list and in-person trip briefing
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) trekking guide with certified first-aid training. French, German & Italian guides are available upon request.
• Roundtrip transportation from our Antigua store to Acatenango trailhead. ( If you prefer we pick you up at your Antigua lodging, select our “Signature Service” add-on.
• Park entrance and camping fees
• Day 1 meals: lunch, appetizer, dinner + snacks.
• Day 2 meals: breakfast + snacks
• Porter –  available as a rental “add-on”. Please be aware that it is each guest’s responsibility to pack up their compact sleeping bag, extra water and personal items –  available as an “add-on” during checkout 
• Large capacity backpack (50L +) –  available as a rental “add-on” during checkout
• Headlamp – available as a rental “add-on” during checkout
• Waterproof Jacket –  available as a rental “add-on” during checkout
• Knit Hat / Gloves –  available as a rental “add-on” during checkout
• Cold-weather clothing
• Hiking boots/shoes
• 4-5 L of water
• Tips for guides (we recommend 5-10% of total trip price)
• Departs from Antigua at 8:00 am on day 1
• Returns to Antigua mid-day day 2

Acatenango Overnight: Adventure Camping

JOIN AN UPCOMING TOUR

Due to our ¨tiered¨ pricing (more guests = lower price), joining a confirmed tour will save you money! Check our Upcoming Tours Calendar to join an existing group and to find coupon codes that you can use during checkout that will lower your tour price based on the number of guests in the group.

Single Supplement Fee:

If you would like your own single backpacking tent or if you are single and there is another single same-sex guest and you choose not to share a tent with that guest, then a single supplement fee of $99 applies.

• 2 guest minimum (but let us know if you’re a solo traveler)
• Groups up to 16 guests
• Roundtrip transportation from our Antigua store to Acatenango trailhead. ( If you prefer we pick you up at your Antigua lodging, select our “Signature Service” add-on.
• Day 1 meals: lunch, appetizer, dinner + snacks
• High-quality backpacking tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, pillows/pillow cases, trekking poles & camp chairs
• Porter –  available as a rental “add-on”. Please be aware that it is each guest’s responsibility to pack up their compact sleeping bag, extra water and personal items – available as an “add-on” item during checkout

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• •  Antigua to Atitlán Trek
• • Acatenango
• •  Antigua Glamping
• •  9-Day Discovery Tour
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7 Best Acatenango Hike Tour Companies 2023

Ready for the challenge and exhilaration of hiking Acatenango Volcano ? All you have to do now is choose which Acatenango hike tour company to book. There are a lot of them, so I’ve tried to simplify the process for you by putting together a list of the top-rated companies offering Acatenango hike tours.

Have a look below for some quick information on what each tour company includes, their price tags, and a handful of reviews for each one so you can make the most informed choice.

Table of Contents: V-Hiking Tours – $65 Wicho & Charlie’s – $65 OX Expeditions – $89 Old Town Outfitters – $125 Trek Guatemala – $149 Tropicana Tours – $67 Balam Tours – $61.50

Acatenango Hike Tour with V-Hiking Tours

V-Hiking Tours is one of the best Acatenango Hike Tour Companies available. The company was founded by owner-operator Elvin Soy, an Inguat-certified guide. Elvin grew up in the town of San José Calderas, just two miles from the Acatenango Volcano trailhead. He started climbing when he was six years old, so he has a lifetime of experience on the mountain.

Elvin founded this company to provide work opportunities for people in his community. This way, they won’t have to emigrate to the U.S. and can provide for their families.

Book with this tour company for an awesome trekking experience. Not only that, you’ll get a cultural experience as well—eating a typical Guatemalan breakfast prepared in the home of your guide.

Still not sure? V-Hiking has 57 Trip Advisor reviews. One is “Very Good” the other 56 are “Excellent.”

Cost of the Acatenango Hike Tour with V-Hiking

Q500 per person for tourists Q400 per person for Guatemalans

• Private Round-trip transportation from your hotel in Antigua to the volcano
• Professional Inguat-licensed guides
• Entrance into the park
• 2 Breakfasts (one will be a typical breakfast prepared by the mother of the guide)
• Camping Equipment: Tents, comfortable mattresses, clean sleeping bags

Does Not Include:

Guide gratuity Additional backpacking/Hiking Supplies

What to pack and bring yourself

• Comfortable (non-cotton) or quick-drying pants and shirts
• Shoes or boots with thick soles and good traction
• Two pairs of socks (to change into in the evening)
• Sunglasses if the weather is sunny
• Warm sweater (fleece) for the evening.
• Two layers of clothing to keep warm: (thermal shirt and long sleeve shirt.) 
• Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
• Tuc or beanie cap
• Warm gloves
• Flashlight (headlamp with sufficient charge, or extra batteries)
• Personal medications if you have medications prescribed by your physician
• Personal hygiene kit (toilet paper roll, disinfectant gel etc.) 
• At least 3 liters of water
• Backpack that fits all the equipment on this list (35-45 liters)

Important Information about the Acatenango Hike Tour with V-Hiking Tours

• Pickup at your hotel in Antigua is at 7 a.m.
• Book through the V-Trekking Website
• There is one guide for every 7 trekkers
• Their private camp has great views of Fuego erupting
• All the meals will be freshly prepared and hot
• Sunrise from the summit

What they say about themselves:

Elvin, the founder of V-Trekking “began offering tours to Acatenango to provide employment for his family and the people of his community so that they would not have to migrate to the United States like many others. And also to show tourists the warmth and hospitality that Guatemala has to offer.”

Amazing views at camping area, excellent coordination and professional tour guides. The best there is! Great experience. – Marielos W

V-Hiking tours are the best around. I did this tour with my brother on 11/02/22 and couldn’t have been happier with our experience. Elvin and his guides are amazing – very hard working, laid back and friendly. Food was tasty from the breakfast at the family home to the spaghetti dinner in the evening and tents were comfortable. Our group was really interesting and kind, a massive difference from the other tour companies (Ox, Wicho and Charlies etc) who seemed chavvy and loud. Camp is at the front so he the best view of Fuego. No need to carry tents, cooking water etc up like other tour companies. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a friendly, hard-working, kind and reliable tour company. Thank you to Elvin and his team! -Daniel

I highly recommend V-Hiking tours. They are the people who formed all the Acatenango guides. They are the ones who started the mountaineering activity of the area. They have great knowledge and put safety first, unlike other tours you’ll find in the area. Elvin and his family also spend 10% of your purchase on charity activities of the Acatenango communities. They are a super committed and warm family. Enjoy your trip, you won’t regret it. -Sebson

Thank you V-hiking, that’s was amazing!

Many thanks to Elvin, his family and crew, we passed probably one of the best moments of our world tour. From start to the end, everything was perfect: travel, food, treks, camping… He has invited us in his family to degust Guatemaltec dinner and breakfast, try traditional clothes etc… During the trek and in the camp, all the guides were really attentive, food was good, tent was comfortable, and of course, el magico fuego 😍. Unforgettable, we hope we will see you again one day. – Oceane

One of the most amazing experiences of my life. My partner and I got picked up right near our air b&b by Elvin, driven to his home and ate a traditional & tasty homemade breakfast made by his very sweet mom, who showed me how to make tortillas 🙂 Rony, our guide for the journey, joined us soon after and we headed to the trailhead. Rony was so much fun and extremely competent- I felt incredibly secure to complete the arduous hike with him as our guide. We were an athletic group and got up to the campsite in about 3-3.5 hours; Rony set everything up when we got there, made a fire, hot cocoa, coffee, and then dinner. He was a great conversationalist and made the experience what it was: so great and memorable. I had an emotional experience with those volcanoes let me tell you. Thank you SO much V Hiking team. We highly recommend this crew.

******Also, side note to tourists, please consider when making your travel plans to go with Guatemalan-owned businesses. Most of the travel agencies in Antigua central are owned by internationals. Buy local always.******** – Lauren m e

GREAT EXPERIENCE – Elvin and his family were so accommodating and helpful to help us get ready before climbing the volcano. No worry if you don’t have equipment, they have everything!!! Then, the next day we climbed the volcano and our guide was so nice and motivating!

We arrived at the camp where there was a nice shelter and the camp is super well organized – all the equipment provided is top quality and I was not cold at all!!! The guide prepared our food at night and then the next morning we woke up at 3.30 am to go to the top. The experience is amazing but more than that, Elvin was so nice and welcomed us into his family!

This is a magical experience – and no worry if you are not the most experienced climber ever, they go at your rhythm and no one rushes you. I think with motivation, everyone can do it. I highly recommend V-hiking you won’t be disappointed!! – Virginie DL

Review Sources

Go to V-Hiking Tours Site

Acatenango Hike Tour with Wicho & Charlie’s

Wicho & Charlie’s is a hostel located in Antigua Guatemala. In 2017 they branched out and started offering overnight Acatenango hike tours. They provide plant-based food, high-quality guides, and high-quality gear. Proceeds from the hike help feed 600 dogs and 200 cats at animal sanctuaries and also helps plant 500 trees every year.

What really sets Wicho & Charlie’s apart is that instead of offering tents, they have A-frame cabins at base camp, that will keep you out of the wind and cold, and safe from eruptions. They also summit Acatenango at sunset (usually), which I personally loved when I did my hike up the volcano. Once hikers reach base camp, they have the option to tack on the Fuego Volcano tour for an additional fee (paid upon return).

All Included Acatenango Hike Tour Package:

*Includes: 3 meals, snacks, guide, cabin with camping gear, essential gear, and transportation

• $65 per person (staying in a shared cabin)
• $79.5 per person (staying in a private two-person cabin – total comes to $159)

Economy Acatenango Hike Tour Package

*Includes: guide, cabin with camping gear, and transportation

• $45 per person (staying in a shared cabin)
• $57.50 per person (staying in a private two-person cabin – total comes to $115)

Gear Rentals

• $1.5 each for hat, scarf, buff, winter gloves, multi-layer jacket (included in the All Included Package)
• $7 for a 40-liter backpack
• $3 for a trekking pole
• $2.5 for thermal base layers
• $2 for merino wool socks
• $1 for a 250-lumen headlamp
• $1.5 for three AAA batteries (for headlamp)
• $5 for boots (check availability)

Porter Services on Acatenango Hike

*Paid to porter in cash. USD amounts below are estimates.

• $20 (Q 150) for 22 pounds
• $26 (Q200) for 23-33 pounds
• $32 (Q250) for 34-44 pounds

Other Optional Add-ons:

$8 for a 1 liter box of wine

All Included Acatenango Hike Tour Package Includes:

• Bilingual community guide trained in first aid, mountain rescue and evac (1 guide for every 6 hikers)
• A-frame cabins at base camp, either shared (8 people) or private (2 people) with -10º sleeping bags, two ponchos, 6-inch foam mattress, and pillow
• Kitchen at base camp with gas-stove and basic eating and cooking gear (minimal wood use and no single use plastics to protect the environment)
• Beach chairs at base camp
• Roundtrip transportation to trail-head in a certified and insured tourism bus
• Lunch: Adobo soy protein, rice & beans with cilantro sauce
• Dinner: Lentil curry with rice and bread
• Breakfast: Instant Oats & PBJ sandwich
• Snacks: apple, banana, 2 granola bars, peanuts
• Quality winter gloves
• Jacket, wind-breaker, middle layer
• Water bottle

Does not include :

• Entrance Fee and Hiking Permit (approximately $15)
• Extra snacks
• Toilet Paper
• Guide gratuity

Important Info about the Acatenango hike tour:

• Arrive at the agency at 8 am
• Storage area available
• 9 am departure from Antigua
• Once hikers reach base camp, they can choose to proceed to Fuego Volcano for an additional fee (paid upon return). This hike includes a safety helmet and masks against volcanic fumes.
• Sunset at the summit (unless weather makes this impossible, in which case it is swapped to a sunrise hike)
• Showers available at the agency for a $1-2 donation
• You must cancel 18 or more hours in advance of the hike if you want a refund.
• If Wicho & Charlie’s cancels the hike due to weather, natural disasters, or the pandemic, you will receive an 80-100% refund.
• There are no refunds or discounts for the Fuego hike if you participate, regardless of views or weather

What they say about themselves :

“The story of Wicho & Charlie started early in the ’90s with our two dads raising us with an entrepreneurial spirit. The attitude to do things right and that there’s no higher purpose than to be of service to others.”

“We don’t use tents. We believe in safety. Our cabins are a safe shelter ready to withstand eruptions like the one in 2018 and also protect you against the possible harsh weather in Acatenango. We care about you, your experience, and your safety without compromising quality. 

“We have the only cabins on the volcano with good quality gear that is already waiting for you at camp”

Review Roundup for the Acatenango hike tour with Wicho & Charlie’s

Wicho & Charlie’s is amazing!!! The guides were so kind, helpful, encouraging, and patient. They wanted everyone to have a good experience. The gear rentals were great as well! Good spot on Acatenango to see Fuego all night long. Can’t say enough good things! Kathryn B Thank you so much, Wicho & Charlie’s for making this experience possible! very uncomplicated, chilled and professional! Was very thankful for the wooden tents;) Everyone visiting Guatemala should go to Acatenango/Fuego… it‘s sooooooo much worth it. you have to work hard for it – but you can do it. Great job guys! Olivia Had a great experience with our tour guide Benjamin climbing Acatenango and doing the additional hike to Fuego. This hike was the main purpose of our trip and we initially had trouble finding a guide until we heard about Wicho and Charlie’s. They had all the gear for us to rent. They have sturdy metal A-frame cabins at base camp which adds some extra peace of mind since your so close to Fuegos eruptions. I would highly recommend 4.5 L of water per person and take lots of layers as it’s very cold at the summit. Jeff A Did the 2-day 1-night Acatentango hike as quite a last-minute decision due to the high recommendation for another backpacker who had done the trip a few days before. Popped into Wicho&Charlie one evening and found the staff super friendly and helpful and reassuring. Came back the next day to book and spoke to another member of staff who was also excellent, really putting us at ease and felt secure choosing this company… Once at base camp you can choose to stay there, continue for 1.5hrs up to the summit for sunset and 30mins down, or 1.5hrs across to Fuego and 2hrs back. As we could see how close Fuego was and how amazing it looked, we opted to hike over to Fuego. You leave at 4:30, arriving just before sunset at 6. Fairly easy hike over, and the views from the top are totally worth the extra effort and cost (extra 200Q pp). They give you lovely hot chocolate while you watch the sunset and wait for the lava eruptions! The trek back in the dark is harder – really have to concentrate on the slippery sandy paths by the light of your head torch, and it’s a hard climb back up after a long day. But still so worth the effort. The guides, porters, equipment, communication, price, perfect timing of everything made this trip perfect. The breakfast at the agency on the first morning was brilliant, great packed lunch to eat on the way up, ample dinner, and a nice porridge the following morning. Really glad we did the trip, and can highly recommend Wicho. What an experience. Expressive-one Review Sources: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g295366-d12981672-Reviews-Wicho_Charlie_s-Antigua_Sacatepequez_Department.html

Go to Wicho & Charlie’s Site

Acatenango Hike Tour with OX Expeditions

OX Expeditions was founded “by mountaineers for mountaineers.” This company is known for quality gear, quality food, and professional guides certified in wilderness safety. On their Acatenango hike tour, they focus on client safety and comfort. They are also an eco-friendly company that supports Guatemalan kids by teaching them English, stewardship of the environment, and guide skills.

OX Expeditions targets adventure-seekers. They offer a range of action-packed tours such as mountain biking, kayaking, zip-lining, surfing, and of course, trekking volcanoes!

Cost of the Acatenango hike tour:

• Roundtrip transportation from Antigua
• Camping gear
• Warm clothes at no extra cost
• Breakfast before the tour, plus lunch, dinner, and breakfast on the tour, fresh coffee
• Bi-lingual professional guide
• Pre-trip meeting the day prior
• Free locker storage for luggage
• Entrance fee
• Book one week in advance
• Leaves Antigua at 7 AM
• Includes a crater run challenge where you have the chance to win a t-shirt
• Sunrise at the peak

What OX Expeditions say about themselves :

“We climb this volcano more than all our competition combined, rain or shine. Our professional guide team and organized procedures work hard to manage the unpredictable chaos of mother nature to provide a high-quality experience. It’s all about the details. We want each and every client to have an enjoyable time no matter where the adventure takes us. Another thing that sets us apart is we really care about the environment. Call us traditional but we pride ourselves on leaving no trace; we take all our gear up and bring everything back down. Hiking this way we protect the fragile volcanic ecosystem that we love so much.”

Review Roundup for the OX Expeditions Acatenango hike tour

This hike was WILD! It is definitely not for the faint of heart but you set your mind to it and go with a guide like Alonzo you’ll make it no problem. Alonzo from Ox was super skilled and let us know all of the ups and downs (mostly ups of the hike ?) He made the trip awesome and it made this extremely hard hike much more fun. Sara Reiland (1) A perfect trip – great guide (Romero) who provided thoughtful and insightful information regarding the hike, the mountains, the flora and fauna as well as the people. KC S (1) My boyfriend and I booked the Acatenango overnight hike with Ox Expeditions & were very happy with our adventure with them. Our guide was super knowledgeable and continually kept us updated with how much longer we had to go and made sure we had enough breaks to stop and rest. This is NOT an easy hike by ANY means, but the crew made sure that everybody stuck together. I also loved that once we got to base camp, we got the option to do the ‘double whammy’ and go to Fuego as well. We opted in for that, and MAN was that a cool experience. Ox was very professional in not letting us get TOO close to the erupting volcano, but finding us a nice spot where we could sit and see the eruptions out of the strong winds as best we can. On our way down, another company left behind an older man who was struggling to get down the mountain. With all the loose dirt, he kept falling. Our guide helped him down the rest of the way! If you are planning on doing either of these hikes, DEFINITELY go with Ox. There’s no better company to go with. Megan C (1) Pay the extra, it’s worth every cent. They provide ample food to keep you going from the morning to the end of the trip. They have great knowledgeable and helpful guides (Romeo & Daniel, you guys rock!), they are great at timing for sunsets and sunrises so you are first on the peaks to watch the lava show out of Fuego and get the best seats, even for sunrises on Acatengo. Plenty of rest breaks but still keep you on time. They don’t care how slow you are, they have endless patience and work really well as a team to keep you motivated and check on you when they notice you might not be doing too well. Tammy (1) I am a very experienced hiker but this experience was unpleasant. There were far too few guides and they left us because we “went too slow” and kept rushing us even though several people were sick from the altitude. There was no support and the guide kept wanting to split up the group so we had to walk alone even though it was completely dark. We only got a single piece of bread in many hours. Katja (1) Review Sources: 1

Check Rates and Book the OX Expedition Acatenango Hike Tour

Acatenango Hike Tour with Old Town Outfitters

Another great Acatenango hike tour company to consider is Old Town Outfitters. They have been in business for twenty years and has high reviews across the board. They are focused on offering unique experiences, including custom-tailored tours. They are known for high-quality guides and high-quality gear.

Old Town Outfitters also leads mountain bike tours across Guatemala and may be able to organize a custom Acatenango Mountain Bike trip. Just head to their website, get in touch through the contact form, and let them know what you’re looking for.

Cost of the Acatenango Hike Tour with Old Town Outfitters:

$125-170 (dependent on number of people)

• Roundtrip Transportation (from Antigua)
• Local guide
• Local bilingual guide with first aid training
• Entrance fees
• Lunch on the trail, dinner, breakfast, snacks, juice, coffee, tea
• Tents, sleeping bags and mats.
• Available for free upon request: backpacks, trekking poles, jackets
• Orientation video and pdfs

Does not include:

• Additonal snacks
• Hiking boots
• Flashlight/headlight

Important Info: 

• The hike leaves at 7:45 and returns around noon the next day.
• You can also opt to tack on their “Mountain to Sea” Tour, which will take you directly from the volcano to El Paredón Surf House, where you can relax on the beach and take a surfing lesson.

“ Go with the most-trusted operator, we have 20+ years of operating on Acatenango volcano and with our guides you will be in the best hands.”

“Every Old Town Outfitters’ product is committed to honoring our sustainable tourism philosophy:

• Work to support the local communities in all of the areas we visit
• Respect the cultures, beliefs and traditions in all of the areas we visit
• Respect the environment, work to utilize resources sustainably, and minimize our impact”

Review Roundup for Acatenango hike tour with Old Town Outfitters

Wow! The hike was a good challenge but too much, the gear (tents, sleeping bags) was comfortable and in good shape, and the views we’re SPECTACULAR. I have traveled the globe quite a bit and sitting around the campfire under a star-lit evening next to a live volcano spewing lava and sharing chili and wine with friends is an experience that his hard to beat. Our tour guide Old Town Outfitters was on top of everything … our guides cool and certainly knew what they were doing. Hands down the best activity in and around Antigua! Rich (1) Old Town outfitters has friendly staff in their office and engaging guides on the trail. The food was great and plentiful; no shortage of snacks. Old Town’s campsite is in a perfect location to see Fuego errupting. Per our guuide’s suggestion, we changed the plan upon arriving at camp and decided as a group to continue on to the summit rather than summit in the morning as originally planned. It turned out to be a great decision as the views of the sunset were sensational! Angus (1) Old town was excellent, very professional, safe and they gave us a choice between hot chocolate or a touch of wine at base camp. The food was great and the views are unbelievable. Bryant (1) The guides were knowledgeable and made sure to check in with the group often. Camp setup was great and the gear was perfect for the cold temperatures at night. Food was excellent. Roberto C (2) We had the most incredible time with Mario and Juan Pablo with Old Town Outfitters! The hike was crazy hard, but the views were so worth it! Watching Fuego erupt all night – FANTASTIC! And these guys, they took such good care of us. Great personalities, very professional, and so encouraging. Loved every part of our experience! Kristi C (2) Our guide Juan Carlos was great! His English was good and he took really great care of us! I had one porter up and down which I can highly recommend, especially when you’re going up alone, it’s a lot of gear to carry by yourself with all the mandatory water and warm clothes (which you really need!). The gear in in great shape, the food was really nice (build your own taco, on top of a mountain with fresh guacamole) and I loved the views and the hiking! Angela (2) The great thing about Old Town Outfitters is that everything is arranged perfectly: 2 English speaking guides on 4 people, freshly made lunch with tortillas, avocado, beans, etc. instead of carrying your own box with some bread and peanut butter, top located tents in base camp, dinner, drinks,… Our guides Juan Carlos and Josias were great, professional and told us a lot on the road. We’ve seen groups of 20 people on 1 guide and we were so happy that we booked the tour with Old Town Outfitters. Bart R (2) Old Town is the best company in Antigua!! Their guides are so friendly and knowledgeable and the office staff is efficient and helpful. We have used them for Pacaya and Acatenango trips and look forward to our next excursion with them. Highly highly recommended!! Briana Havey (3) Review Sources 1 , 2 , 3

Go to Old Town Outfitters Site

Acatenango Hike Tour with Trek Guatemala

One reason to choose Trek Guatemala to lead your Acatenango hike tour is because this company leads trekking expeditions all over Guatemala. They focus on culture, service, and sustainability. One of their selling points is that a place is all about the people. They want their clients to experience Guatemalan culture by meeting local people.

Based on reviews of other walking/hiking tours organized by Trek Guatemala, they can accommodate special diets and allergies.

Cost of Acatenango hike tour with Trek Guatemala:

• 2 guests: $229 per guest
• 3 guests: $189 per guest
• 4-5 guests: $169 per guest
• 6+ guests: $149 per guest
• Pre-departure packing list and trip briefing
• Multi-lingual trekking guide with certified first-aid training
• Roundtrip transportation from Antigua to Acatenango trailhead
• Park entrance fees
• Day 1 meals: lunch, dinner + snacks
• Day 2 meals: breakfast + snacks
• High-quality tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and trekking poles
• Large capacity backpack (50L) +/ –  available for rental at additional cost
• Flashlight/headlamp –  available for rental at additional cost
• Cold-weather clothing –  available for rental at additional cost
• Hiking boots/shoes
• Raincoat (May through October)
• 4-6L of water

Important Info :

• Leaves Antigua at 8 AM
• Morning at the peak after an early breakfast

“The summit of Acatenango is an extreme environment where things can, and have, gone wrong for hikers who are ill-prepared for the conditions. Tales of fly-by-night operators with leaky tents and unwashed sleeping bags leaving slower hikers behind are common from visitors deceived by their lower prices.”

“With nearly 20 years managing adventure travel in Guatemala, you can trust our team to keep you safe, satisfied and smiling.”

Review Roundup of Acatenango hike tour with Trek Guatemala

Was an absolute blast with Mario being an experienced and great tour guide. Fernando did a great job in leading the group up to the summit and carrying up food and sleeping bags. Has top equipment, considers different levels of fitness and provides lip-smacking comfort food. Murphy’s trips We initially booked a private tour with the caveat that if others wanted to join us they could. We were delighted when we receive a partial refund from Trek Guatemala to have Bethany and Laurie join us for the climb. Mario our guide was simply Awesome, not only knowledgeable on the trail and volcanoes but also providing information on flora and fauna as well as local culture along the way. And it must be added that Hyme our porter provided incredible assistance, support and motivation as well. Mike2018Roatan Trek Guatemala was prepared with a great guide who spoke Spanish, English, and French. The provided equipment, and rental gear if needed, was all new and of very good quality. The food was very good and our guide prepared lunch, dinner, and breakfast that other hiking groups were jealous of. Our guide made guacamole with tomatoes and onions at the stop. There were tortillas, chips, pastries, apples, bread, and refried beans. Dinner was sliced bread with tomato topping and a bottle of wine to start with. The entree was bow tie pasta, tomatoes, salad. Top off with S’mores at the end. Breakfast the next morning was after the ascent and included strawberries, granola, yogurt, apples, coffee and tea. The food was excellent and I may have missed a few items, but you won’t go hungry…Our tents were set up when we arrived and a nice touch was the thermarest chair made out of the sleeping pad. The only improvement I would suggest at camp would be to have a few log benches at least to sit on because it’s all lava rock. Hadfun2018  The whole process was awesome from the booking to completing the hike. Billy was our guide and spoke great English and his knowledge of the area was great. The experience was unreal from the change climate as you get higher on Acatenango from the fresh food we are along the way. I would recommend these guys to anyone that want to experience Acatenango as they had the best spot at base camp for viewing the eruptions. Jayn86 Review Sources: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g295366-d12527594-Reviews-or5-Trek_Guatemala-Antigua_Sacatepequez_Department.html#REVIEWS

Go to Trek Guatemala Site

Acatenango Hike Tour with Tropicana Tours

If you want to hike Acatenango with a company that has lots of experience, Tropicana Hostel may be the choice for you. They have led over 10,000 tours up Acatenango volcano. They offer hikes every Saturday, throw in a free breakfast, and offer vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-intolerant options for their meals. All meals are vegetarian/plant-based.

Tropicana helps support the local community in La Soledad by hiring local guides, enabling them to stay in their communities instead of traveling to the city for work. They pay they above average and also equip them with good boots and cold-weather gear.

Another bonus with Tropicana is that they now have wooden cabins which will keep you out of the wind and cold.

Their guides are not bilingual, however. If that is important to you, you may wish to choose a different company.

$67 per person to join the Saturday group hike

Gear Rentals for the Acatenango hike with Tropicana

Choose any 3 items for 3 usd ($3 deposit), any 1 item for $7 ($15 deposit).

• Running Shoes

1 item for $3 ($5 deposit)

Tropicana acatengango hike includes:.

• Sleeping bag, mat, and wooden cabins with views of Fuego
• Local Community Guide
• Breakfast before the hike
• 3 vegetarian meals (vegan, gluten-free, lactose intolerant options available upon request)
• Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.
• One glass of wine
• Marshmallows to roast at the campfire.
• Roundtrip Transportation to and from the trailhead
• Free storage at the hostel
• Free shower and towel at the hostel after the trek, at no extra cost.
• Backpack/Cold-weather Gear/Walking sticks
• Non-English-speaking Guides
• Tropicana leads hikes every Saturday, but may have hikes on other days (inquire)
• Arrive at the hostel at 8am for the free breakfast
• Shuttle departs at 9am
• Campfire and marshmallow roast included
• Pet friendly
• Family friendly

“To make your excursion unforgettable, we will send you a packing list, conduct a pre-trip in-person briefing, serve you delicious meals, and make sure you are safe and satisfied.”

Review Roundup for Acatenango hike with Tropicana Tours

Struggle but definitely worth the hike. Great team and amazing guides (Cristián, Jairo y one more) highly recomendó it. Havannah C They have the best view of the Fuego volcano, incredible guides, good food, and the price is accessible. Luis G This trip was totally amazing, the hike was spectacular, I went with my kids and Tropicana made everything so easy, the food, the gear, the guides, the wooden cabins (that btw were just perfect for this kind of overnight), we definitely recommend it for all ages. Beth Smith Went on here to find a tour company, everyone raves about Tropicana. Chose them. Yes, some of the food and location are fantastic. That’s about it. Arrived at the hostel, and you’re treated as a resource immediately. No intro, nothing whatsoever. Just follow the herd! …Guides didn’t speak any english, but this isn’t on them — Tropicana should provide a translator as every.single.sign at their location is in English. Tsk tsk Tropicana. Tsk tsk. Onto the hike with lots of breaks. Good job here… Stunning lava explosions. Wow. I mean wow! You’re so close!!! Back in Antigua, Tropicana again treated us as an ATM. Gave out 3 free beers (out of 19 travels) in order to entice us as a group to stay there and hash out our adventures together (it worked, we were tired and ready to sit back and laugh and drink beers and gin’n’tonics). James M A must-do hike. I was advised by a friend to book the trekking with Tropicana and I couldn’t be more grateful for it. Booking was easy. Despite booking the wrong day, the agency changed the date only charging me for the wasted food. They offer rental of any gear you might need, peace of mind! Once on the field we had the two awesome guides Edwin and Juan. Lovely, kind and patient, making the whole experience even more special. They looked after us at all times, giving us generous breaks in a not easy hike. They served us dinner and we had a nice cabin (instead of rival companies tents) with comfy beds. Fire volcano didn’t stop spitting lava all night, so great for pics but bad for sleep. Bring earplugs! Next morning, after being up the crater, we had a nice breakfast and back to the starting point. I cannot stress more to advise you booking the hike with Edwin & Juan. What a nice couple of guys! Joan S Unique experience to watch the lava eruptions of Volcan fuego from Volcan Acatenango. After some recommendations, we went with the agency of Tropicana hostel, and would definitely go with them again. Great base camp, comfy sleeping, lots of food and some other surprises. Jairo was a great guide and served us riddles on the way to take our minds off the hard and steep hike??saludos from Annike – Noruega. Beatrice_Roma187791 Review Sources: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g295366-d1997239-Reviews-Acatenango_Volcano-Antigua_Sacatepequez_Department.html#REVIEWS

Go to Tropicana Tours Site

Acatenango Hike Tour with Balam Tours

Balam Tours is another great Acatenango hike tour company. They have high ratings for their hand-picked, safety-conscious guides, quality gear, and good food. They offer vegetarian and vegan menu options and include extra bonuses like wine, hot chocolate, and a campfire. Unlike other tours, they offer to pick you up right from your hostel (as long as it’s in central Antigua).

They are currently offering private tours (2 person minimum).

Cost of hiking Acatenango with Balam Tours:

$55 plus Q50 ($6.50 approximately) for entrance to the park.

• Roundtrip transportation from central Antigua to the Trailhead
• Walking stick
• Boots (limited sizes, check with them beforehand)
• Backpacks (limited quantity available)
• Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, and a bonus evening snack at the campfire, plus wine and hot chocolate
• Stay in a four-season camping dome with a cot, sleeping bag, pillow, and extra blanket
• Private toilet (clean, secluded, and with a view)
• Guide Gratuity
• Snacks during the hike

Important Info about Balaam Acatenango hike:

• 8:30-9am Shuttle Pickup at hostels in central Antigua
• Sunrise at the Peak

It’s time to remember what it’s like to feel alive. Experience nature displaying its true beauty with the tour of a lifetime.

Review Roundup for the Acatenango hike tour with Balaam

Amazing trekking on Acetenango. Warm coats, gloves, hats and extra blankets were provided. Great food, also vegetarian. Best guide ever. We were 8 people and we had an amazing guide in Isaias. Very caring, attentive and cheery; waking us up with a bright Hola hola. And even carried one of our group down when her knee ‘gave up’. Views were magical, also from the basecamp. We could see El Fuego from quite close by. The tents were strong and decent and we slept on camping beds. Great experience with this tour company! Yessica Y Our guide Jamie was wonderful and the food was excellent. We were given jackets, gloves, poles, rain ponchos, really good sleeping gear up the mountain, and a fantastic view of Volcán Fuego from our campsite. Balam was an excellent company to use and the experience was our best in Guatemala. Wendy W We did this hike with Balam tours and I would highly recommend them. The hike is challenging so having a tour company that makes it easier is key. Our guides Johnny and Otta were outstanding and couldn’t have been more helpful. The food and accommodation was fantastic. We had one girl who injured her ankle at the end of the hike and they handled the situation brilliantly. Lindsey C Definitely a highlight trip. Although the hike up was difficult, once we arrived to the already set-up campsite everything was totally worth it. We went through Balam Tours which we booked through Three Monkeys Hostel for 400Q. The tour guides were great, they gave surprisingly accurate time estimates to the next stops or when the track would not be so steep which I really appreciated. They provided jackets, gloves and beanies if needed but you had to supply 4L of water, 3L for you and 1L for them to cook with – so the backpack felt pretty heavy going up! But super easy going down as the backpack was super light. The campsite up the mountain was pretty cool – it looked directly at Fuego – which was very active and just incredible to see both in the day and at night time. The two tents were secured down and blocked a lot of wind. If you choose the bed next to the door, it is a lot colder so just warning! It was really cold when we went so I would recommend bringing a lot of warm clothing. Aleisha W https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g295366-d1997239-Reviews-Acatenango_Volcano-Antigua_Sacatepequez_Department.html#REVIEWS

Go to Balam Tours Site

And there you have it!

This isn’t a complete list, but it covers the best-known Acatengango hike tour operators out of Antigua. Other companies in Xela and Panajachel also offer excursions to Acatenango, so there are plenty of options if you want a tour based out of another location. If there’s enough interest, I may expand this list to include more tour companies, including more budget options such as Guate Valley.

If you haven’t already done so, learn everything you need to know about hiking Acatenango Volcano !

Looking for more volcanoes to climb? Check out my post on climbing San Pedro Volcano in Lake Atitlán , or choose one of these awesome Pacaya Volcano tours from Antigua .

*** GUATEMALA TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE *** Should I buy Guatemala travel insurance? YES  — Personally, I always travel with travel insurance because it gives me extra peace of mind.  SafetyWing  is an excellent travel insurance company that’s quite affordable. Plus, if you travel longterm, it’s a snap to renew on a month to month basis. You can keep renewing for up to a year and still pay the same deductible. Where’s the best place for finding cheap flights to Guatemala? When I purchase a ticket, I always search several different sites.  Kayak  and  Expedia  are great places to start running a search. Spirit is usually the cheapest carrier, but American Airlines and United also sometimes offer excellent deals. What’s the best way to book my Guatemala accommodations? I recommend  booking.com  for finding and booking hotels in Guatemala. For vacation rentals, I recommend  VRBO.com  — it offers beautiful and unique spots to stay. What’s the best way to book Guatemala tours? Viator  is a great tour booking site with several excellent options available in Guatemala’s main tourist areas including Tikal, Atitlán, Antigua, and Acatenango. There’s a nice range of prices and options available. Can you drink the water in Guatemala? No – Don’t drink the tap water! Instead, buy purified water from any corner store or grocery store in Guatemala. Be sure to brush your teeth with that water as well to avoid getting sick. And hydrated, especially when traveling to high elevations. Do I need a visa for Guatemala? Probably not — Visitors to Guatemala from “Category A” countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, Australia, and most European countries are automatically given a 90-day tourist visa (in the form of a passport stamp) when entering Guatemala. This visa is valid for Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador. At the end of 90 days, it can be renewed once at Guatemala’s Migración without leaving the country. After 180 days, you will have to travel outside of Central America before returning. Check to see  if you need a visa . Will my phone work in Guatemala? It’s possible, but check with your provider in advance to see if Guatemala is covered. If not, you can easily pick up a local SIM card. There are essentially only two carriers in the country: TIGO and CLARO. Both have good coverage.

Yvonne McArthur is a writer, word-lover, and adventurer born and raised in Guatemala. Since starting her niche travel blog in 2021, she's helped thousands of people discover Guatemala, from top tourist attractions to far-flung destinations.

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Acatenango Volcano Hike – An Experience of a Lifetime

Acatenango is a stratovolcano whose moon-like crater rises to 13,045-feet above sea level, making it the third highest peak in Central America. Getting to the top is a physical and mental challenge worth tackling, especially if you like to push yourself to the limits of endurance, experience nature in its raw glory, and climb higher than the clouds.

BOOK A TOUR

The Local Experience

Acatenango Overnight Hike

Acatenango Day Trip

COMING SOON

Embrace the true Guatemalan local experience as you step off the tourist trail and spend a night with a welcoming family living next to the majestic volcano. 

MOST POPULAR

Conquer the heights! Experience Acatenango in a day by challenging yourself with a fast-paced hike to basecamp where you'll marvel at the erupting Fuego volcano.

An unforgettable journey up the volcano. Experience stunning views of the always changing landscape, majestic cloud forest, the 360 view from the top and of course lava!

Pacaya Day Trip

This hike provides a unique and more accessible experience to an active volcano. Hike and roast some marshmallows while enjoying the view.

EXPLORE TOUR

ACATENANGO OVERNIGHT HIKE

All year long

Max People: 20

*Book your date and choose your quantity of spots at checkout!

$22 DEPOSIT

Ascend to new heights! Witness ever-changing landscapes, majestic cloud forests, 360-degree views, and the fiery lava!

High-Intensity

Total Price:

7:30 - Departure  Be ready! You will be picked up from our designated pick-up points to start the 1-hour drive to our supply camp at the foot of the volcano. 8:30 - Briefing and collecting gear In the supply center you will pick up all the necessary gear and you'll get some last information before starting the hike. 10:00 - Start of our hike Lets go! 12:30 - Lunch Around half way up it's lunch time. 15:30 - Arrival at Basecamp  You made it! Enjoy the view and relax. 16:00 - Optional Fuego hike (Additional: Q200/pax) You can decide to hike Fuego and get even closer to the lava. (3 hours in total). 19:00 - Dinner The guides will prepare you a nice warm meal, serve you a glass of wine followed by some marshmallows!

HIKE DETAILS

An unforgettable journey up the volcano. Experience stunning views of the always changing landscape, majestic cloud forest, the 360 view from the top and of course lava! Pay your deposit, and secure your spot for this amazing adventure.

3:45 - Waking up Rise and shine! If you want to hike the summit for sunrise (optional but included) this is the time to start putting on all your warm clothes. If not, you can sleep for a couple of hours longer. 4:00 - Start summit hike It is 2 hours to the top. Cold and dark, but soooo worth it! 7:30 - Breakfast Time to put some food in your belly and pack your belongings. 8:00 - Start descending Making your way back down. 11:00 - Arrival at the supply center Tired but fulfilled, you arrive at the supply center to return your borrowed gear. 11:30 - Transport back to Antigua Around 12:30 you will be back at your accommodation for a well deserved shower with a mind full of unforgettable memories!

WHAT OUR HIKE WILL LOOK LIKE

Reaching basecamp is a monumental achievement, a well-deserved milestone on this thrilling expedition. Here, you'll find a sanctuary nestled amidst the awe-inspiring landscape. Take a moment to catch your breath and relish the panoramic views that stretch far and wide. From basecamp, two enticing trails beckon you towards further exploration. One trail leads you towards the enigmatic Volcan de Fuego, where fiery displays captivate and remind you of nature's untamed power. The other trail guides you towards the summit, where the pinnacle of the journey awaits. Each step brings you closer to conquering new heights!

Embark on an exhilarating journey as you trace the trail of our epic hike. The adventure begins in La Soledad, where anticipation and excitement fill the air. Step by step, you ascend through the rugged terrain, passing through two official entrances that mark your progress. As you forge ahead, the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings unfolds before your eyes, immersing you in nature's grandeur.

Acatenango Summit

La Soledad Community

Fuego Ridge

We take pride in being a high-quality service tour operator in Acatenango. We go above and beyond to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the journey. A $22 deposit will have to be paid on the website to complete the booking. The remaining $70 will have to be paid in cash in the local currency the day off the hike -> Q550 cash.

- Optional rent of a backpack (Q60). - Optional rent of hiking poles (Q50). - Optional rent of rain pants (Q40). - Optional Fuego hike (Q200).

OUR PRICING & SERVICES

- Entrance (worth Q100). - All necessary camping gear like sleeping bags, headlamps, and blankets. - Gear to keep you warm: Hat, gloves, a warm jacket and extra layers. - 4 meals made locally by the woman of the Acatenango community. - 3 liters of drinking water + 1 liter of water in the camp used by the guides for preparing the meals. - Transport from and to Antigua. - A glass of wine during dinner and coffee or tea in the morning.

As you embark on this unforgettable journey, we invite you to catch a glimpse of the immersive experience that awaits. Our gallery of photos showcases not only the stunning landscapes that surround our base camp but also the exceptional service and attention to detail that sets us apart. From cozy accommodations to delicious meals prepared with care, every aspect of your stay is thoughtfully crafted to ensure your utmost satisfaction. If you want to see more we invite you to check out and follow us on social media at @lavatrails.gt.

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Destinations

Acatenango Volcano Tours: Experience Guatemala’s Premier Volcano Hiking Experience

The Acatenango Volcano hike is the top hiking experience for outdoor adventure seekers in Guatemala, and we’re proud to have been offering guided Acatenango tours for international visitors and locals for over 20 years - longer than any other tour operator in the country.

At the summit of Acatenango, experience unparalleled 360-degree views of the entirety of the Guatemalan highlands – all the way to the border of Mexico. Plus, experience the Fuego Volcano, the world’s most consistently erupting volcano. With a little luck, you’ll witness a high-altitude firework show!

Available Tours

Acatenango volcano overnight hike.

This overnight hike to Volcán Acatenango is our top tour, and for good reason. Climb the slopes of beautiful Acatenango to our private campsite…

Acatenango - Fuego Double Header

2 night 3 day Expedition to Acatenango and Fuego. Your own personal firework show!

Acatenango Volcano Day Hike

This Acatenango day hike is quite the climb, especially to do in a single day, but the panoramic mountain views and nearby eruptions of Fuego…

Acatenango 4x4 Off Roading Adventure and Overnight Hike

Our signature Acatenango overnight hike combined with a 4X4 off-road ride to the summit trailhead. See amazing 360 views and a live volcanic…

Acatenango 4x4 Off Roading Adventure and Day Hike

Our signature hike combined with a 4X4 off-road ride to the trailhead is a unique way to see the wild side of Guatemala.

About Volcan de Acatenango

Acatenango Volcano, known locally as Volan de Acatenango, is a stratovolcano, which means it was formed by layers of ash and hardened lava and has the classic conical profile. The Acatenango summit measures in at a whopping 3,976 m (13,041 ft) making it the third highest volcano in Guatemala and all of Central America.

Acatenango is joined with the Fuego Volcano, Volcán de Fuego in Spanish, and collectively the volcano complex is known as La Horqueta. The popularity of Acatenango as a hiking destination is directly related to its proximity to the Fuego Volcano, which is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.

Additionally, Acatenango is known for its climate ecological diversity. Hikers will experience four distinct microclimates ranging from a high-alpine cloud forest to a tropical dry forest.

Acatenango Hiking Tours and Adventure Packages

We offer six unique Acatenango Volcano experiences. We have tours for all skill levels from beginners to the most avid adventurers looking for the ultimate Acatenango Volcano experience.

The overnight Acatenango hike is our most popular tour and is highly recommended! We also offer a single-day hiking tour as well as a single-day or overnight 4x4 and hiking combos. For the most adventurous, consider the multi-day epic tours and summit Acatenango plus several additional volcanos. Ask about our add-on trip extension to the beach for surfing.

Acatenango Volcano Hikes Highlights:

• Summit Guatemala’s 3rd highest Volcano
• Enjoy breathtaking 360° views of all that Guatemala has to offer
• Spend time watching nearby Volcan Fuego erupt (4km away)
• Spend a night under the stars in a beautiful, private campsite overlooking the active Volcan Fuego
• You’ll walk through a maze of corn, old-growth forests, and a barren summit of scree as you experience four distinct microclimates: Farmland, Temperate coniferous forest, high-alpine forest, and tropical dry forest.
• An incredible biodiversity of flora and fauna
• Wildlife including the Quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird known for its vibrant iridescent green colors.
• The views! Including other highland volcanoes: Atitlan, Toliman, San Pedro, Santa Maria, Santo Tomas, and Tajamulco, along with glimpses of the Cuchumatanes mountain chain.
• Incredible sunrise over Guatemala

We had the most incredible time with Mario and Juan Pablo with Old Town Outfitters! The hike was crazy hard, but the views were so worth it! Watching Fuego erupt all night - FANTASTIC! And these guys, they took such good care of us. Great personalities, very professional, and so encouraging. Loved every part of our experience!

While Acatenango is active, the last time Acatenango erupted was back in 1972.

Acatenango can be hiked all year round. The dry season is from November to April and can lead to colder nights, which means temperatures overnight on the summit can hover around freezing. The wet season is from May to October.

Acatenango is a challenging hike, but well worth it. If you are in reasonably good shape, the hike will be worth the effort! We promise. Expect to hike up hill for several hours.

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: Everything you need to know (updated 2023)

The Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike is a must do in Antigua Guatemala . Not only do you get to sleep on the side of a volcano , but you get first row seats to watch an active volcano erupt every 15 minutes! It was awe inspiring to witness the power of nature up close, but remember there’s no gain without a little bit of pain!

Where is Acatenango Volcano?

Acatenango Volcano (or Volcan de Acatenango in Spanish) is located in Guatemala in Central America . It is around 1 hour drive from the city of Antigua. Additionally, it is part of the Sierra Madre mountain range.

Tours of Acatenango Volcano

There are a range of tour companies which offer overnight hike tours of Acatenango Volcano. These volcan Acatenango tours take you up Acatenango Volcano, which is about an hour drive from the city of Antigua Guatemala . From base camp some tours offer the option of hiking onto the adjacent active volcano, Fuego Volcano , for an additional fee. Alternatively you can hike to the summit of Acatenango Volcano ( 3,976m elevation ). Some tours do the hike to the summit for sunset and others hike to the summit for sunrise the next morning. You spend the night camping on the side of Acatenango Volcano, which gives you unbeatable views of the regular eruptions of Fuego Volcano .

Comparison of tour companies offering overnight tours of Acatenango Volcano

There are six main tour companies offering tours of Acatenango Volcano. Prices range from $64-$275 USD per person. The cheapest operator is Tropicana Hostel and the most expensive is Trek Guatemala .

All companies offer transport between Antigua and the bottom of the volcano, 3 meals and guides. Some companies also offer a pre departure breakfast, snacks, storage facilities and rental gear. Additionally, some companies offer private accommodation for couples for an additional cost. The entrance fee to Acatenango Volcano may or may not be included in your price, depending on the operator. The biggest difference between the companies relates to the accommodation (cabins or tents, permanent campgrounds or carry your own tent up), group sizes, whether or not rental gear is included and the experience of the guides. Some operators explicitly request you bring a tip to pay your guide on their website. However there is an expectation that you will tip your guide regardless of the provider chosen.

Below are the main features of the different Acatenango Volcano overnight hike Guatemala tours.

Tropicana Hostel Acatenango Volcano overnight hike

Price: $79 (shared cabins) or $249 (for 2 people in private tent with bottle of wine and special dessert)

Meeting point: Tropicana Hostel

Meeting time: 8am

Departure time: 9am

Accommodation: Shared cabins or private 2-person tent

Guides: Local guides

Meals: Pre departure breakfast, 3 vegetarian meals, hot beverages, marshmallows

Transport: Transport between Tropicana Hostel and the bottom of the volcano is included

Storage: Free storage at the hostel

Entrance Fee: Included in price

Other inclusions: free shower and towel at the hostel after the trek

Discounts: discount at the hostel for the following nights (except during low season)

What you need to bring: warm clothes, 4 litres of water, extra snacks, flashlight, medium backpack

Rental gear available: clothes (3 for $3 plus $3 deposit) – jacket, sweater, scarf, gloves, hat, pants; running or hiking shoes ($7 for a pair plus $15 deposit); backpack ($7 plus $15 deposit); headlamp ($3 plus $5 deposit)

Website: https://tropicanahostel.com/product/acatenango-volcano-hike/

Pros: Cheapest

V-Hiking Tours Acatenango Volcano overnight hike

Price: 550 quetzales (tourists) or 450 quetzales (Guatemalan nationals)

Meeting point: Pick-up from your accommodation in Antigua

Departure time: 7am

Accommodation: tents

Guides: 1 guide for every 7 guests, family business run by local guide

Meals: Pre departure breakfast with local family, 3 meals, 1 snack

Transport: private transport between your accommodation in Antigua and the bottom of the volcano is included

Entrance Fee: 110 quetzales entrance fee is included in price

Other inclusions: camping equipment – clean sleeping bags, comfortable mattresses etc.

What you need to bring: warm clothes including 2 pairs of socks, personal medication, personal hygiene kit (toilet paper, hand sanitiser etc), 3+ litres of water, flashlight/headlamp with sufficient batteries, 35-45 litre backpack.

Website: https://v-hiking.tours/

Pros: Locally owned, family business

Wicho & Charlie’s Acatenango Volcano overnight hike

Price: $97 (shared cabin) or $275 (for 2 people private cabin)

Meeting point: Wicho & Charlie’s Office: 2 calle Oriente #22, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Meeting time: 7am

Departure time: 8am

Accommodation: Shared cabins or private 2-person cabins

Guides: Bilingual local guides raised within a 5km radius of the volcano with at least 300 ascents experience, first aid certified, air and mountain rescue certified

Meals: Pre departure breakfast, 3 vegetarian meals, snacks. All food is vegetarian and gluten free.

Transport: Transport between Wicho & Charlie’s office and the bottom of the volcano is included

Storage: Free storage at Wicho & Charlie’s Office

Other inclusions: essential gear rental (hat, scarf, buff, winter gloves, multiple layer jacket), 4 litres water

Discounts: 5% discount when you pay by cash

Potential extra fees: If you fall behind the group by more than 45 minutes a separate guide will be assigned to you and you will be charged an additional Q250-Q300. If this happens on the way down and you miss the bus to go back to Antigua there is an additional Q250 fee for the alternative transport.

What you need to bring: toilet paper, warm clothes, extra 0.5 litres water, extra snacks (500 calories), sunscreen, camera, battery power bank, 40 litre backpack

Rental gear included: multiple jackets, scarf, buff, winter gloves, hat, headlamp as well as water bottles.

Additional rental gear available: thermal base layers (20q); merino socks (15q); 40 litre backpack (70q); trekking pole (40q). Deposit required – government ID or money.

Porters available: 200-350 quetzales for a maximum of 30 pounds. A third party provider provides this service, so payment is in cash directly to the porter.

Cancellation policy: refund or change of date if requested 24 hours prior to tour start time (7am)

Website: https://wichoandcharlies.com/acatenango-volcano-hike/

Pros: Best campsite and accommodation on Acatenango Volcano

OX Expeditions Acatenango Volcano overnight hike

Meeting point: Ox Expeditions Office: 2a Calle Poniente #23, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Accommodation: Tents

Guides: Professional bilingual guides

Meals: Pre departure breakfast, 3 meals, coffee

Transport: Transport between Ox Expeditions Office and the bottom of the volcano is included

Storage: Free storage at Ox Expeditions Office

Entrance Fee and camping fee: 100 quetzales

What you need to bring: Hiking clothes (a synthetic base layer, fleece, rain jacket and quick drying leggings or shorts), a good pair of trainers or hiking boots, hat and sunscreen, snacks, tip for guide.

Rental gear available: rental gear is included

Website: https://oxexpeditions.com/tours/acatenango-overnight-hike/

Pros: Rental gear is included

Old Town Outfitters Acatenango Volcano overnight hike

Price: $140-245 per person, depending on group size. Old Town Outfitters operates on tiered pricing, meaning the price depends on the total number of paying customers in the group. You can join an existing tour or start a new group yourself for your preferred date.

Meeting point: Old Town Outfitters Office: 5a Avenida Sur, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Accommodation: High altitude tents with sleeping bags and pads

Guides: Experienced local guides from the community of La Soledad

Meals: 3 meals, juice/coffee/tea, snacks

Transport: Transport between Old Town Outfitters Office and the bottom of the volcano is included

Entrance Fee: Included

What you need to bring: one warm layer and/or windbreaker, warm clothes for the near-freezing night-time temperatures at camp, rain jacket (May-October), hat, sunglasses, hiking boots or trekking shoes (no sandals), minimum 4 litres water (you can fill up waterbottles at the Old Town Outfitters office before the hike), sunscreen, camera, flashlight, backpack for your personal gear, personal toiletries and/or medication, snacks, tip for your guide.

Porters available: $45 for a maximum of 30 pounds. This is typically enough to share between 2 hikers. The Porter Service charge goes directly to local porter staff and OTO does not earn a profit from this service.

Website: https://adventureguatemala.com/tour/acatenango-volcano-overnight-hike

Pros: No minimum tour size required

Trek Guatemala Acatenango Volcano overnight hike

Price: Private tours for 2-12 guests; $229 per guest for 2 guests, $219 per guest for 3 guests, $169 per guest for 4-5 guests, $149 per guest for 6-12 guests

Accommodation: high quality tents

Guides: Multilingual guides, first aid certified

Meals: 3 meals, snacks

Transport: Transport between Antigua and the bottom of the volcano is included

Other inclusions: High-quality tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads and trekking poles

What you need to bring: flashlight/headlamp, warm clothes, hiking boots/shoes, raincoat (May-October), 4-6 litres water, 50 litre backpack, tips for guides.

Rental gear available: 50 litre backpack, flashlight/headlamp, warm clothing,

Website: https://trekguatemala.com/portfolio-item/acatenango-volcano-overnight-hike/

Pros: Private tours

Acatenango Balam Tours

For completeness, we note that we found a Facebook page for a company called Acatenango Balam Tours. This company appears to offer tours for the Acatenango Volcano overnight hike. However their last post was in 2020 and their last review suggested that this was a fake company.

Which tour company we chose for Acatenango Overnight Volcano Hike Guatemala

We did our tour with Wicho & Charlie’s . We chose them because they have the best position on Acatenango Volcano, their guides are well trained and very experienced and they came highly rated on TripAdviser. For our tour in 2020 we paid 450 quetzales or $61 USD per person. The tour started from their office in Antigua at 7:30am and returned at around 11:30am the next day. Included in this price were, transport, guides, essential gear, food and accommodation.

Our Experience with Wicho & Charlie’s Acatenango Hike

Our impression of wicho & charlie’s.

Wicho & Charlie’s runs a very professional and well organised hike. Their guides were excellent and made sure that everyone was well taken care of. They had enough guides that you could go at whatever pace you were comfortable with without worrying about being left behind. Their campsite has the best vantage point for viewing Fuego Volcano and their food was delicious. We think they run the best tour on the volcano and highly recommend going with them.

What is supplied on the Wicho & Charlie’s Acatenango overnight hike

Wicho & Charlie’s include the following in their Acatenango Overnight Hike:

• All your food (which you need to carry up yourself)
• Tents and camping equipment on the best permanent campsite on Acatenango Volcano
• Cold weather clothing such as base layers, jackets and scarves
• Waterbottles
• For an extra charge you can rent items such as backpacks, hiking poles and other useful equipment. We borrowed a hiking pole for part of the walk down, and after struggling without one, we’d say it’s worth the cost, especially if you’re not an experienced hiker

What to bring for the Acatenango overnight hike

We recommend you bring the following items for the Acatenango Overnight Hike. This is in addition to what is supplied by Wicho & Charlie’s:

• 4 litres of water (3 litres for yourself and an extra litre is required to give to the cooks for preparing dinner)
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Photography equipment to capture the best shots (if you have a DSLR , now is definitely the time to use it!)
• 200 quetzales, just in case you decide to go onto Fuego Volcano. Even if you don’t think you’ll do that, make sure you keep that option open in case you change your mind in the moment
• Any medication you might need, keeping in mind that altitude sickness is a potential risk on this tour. Bandaids might also come in handy if you get blisters from the hike
• Hand sanitiser

If you have your own cold weather clothes, we recommend you bring them.

Before the Acatenango Volcano hike

The tour starts at the Wicho & Charlie’s office in Antigua Guatemala . We got a welcome drink on arrival and they have filtered water available so you can fill up your water bottles for the hike. The team from Wicho & Charlie’s gave a debrief about the tour. We were also provided with a hearty breakfast to start the day. After breakfast we were able to select the gear that we wanted to borrow for the hike. Some items came included in the package and other items were an additional charge. After we selected our items we then had to let the staff know what we’d selected. The staff made note of our items so they could ensure all items were returned at the end of the tour. We thought there was a good range of items available in various sizes.

Once everyone was ready, we got into a couple of minivans. We then drove to the base of Acatenango Volcano, which was about an hour drive away.

Last restroom stop before Acatenango Volcano

At the drop off point at Acatenango Volcano we had our last opportunity to use an actual toilet before the hike. The restrooms are in sheds just next to the road. They are pretty basic and not the most pleasant to use, but a step up from going in a hole in the ground.

Hiking to Base Camp on Acatenango Volcano

Hiking Acatenango is really challenging. It goes in three main stages . The first stage is STEEP and it’s gravelly. I thought I was pretty fit and it would be no problem but I struggled. But you know you just put one foot in front of the other. Just try and motivate yourself and the views at the top are absolutely worth it.

When you’re at the top you can see you’ve got a great vantage point of Fuego Volcano which is an active volcano and it erupts pretty much every 15 minutes. It’s an amazing sight to see and a very thrilling experience.

Once you get to base camp which is about 4 hours from the bottom, you have the option of going up to the summit which is a one and a half hour hike up and then half an hour hike back. Or you can have the opportunity of going to Fuego itself, which is a four hour hike, down and up, down and up, and that will be another 200 quetzales . We were considering doing Fuego, but the hike just to base camp took all the energy we could muster! After a couple of hours rest we did the summit hike and that was probably the most demanding part of the whole trip. But very worth it once you’re up the top. You get an amazing sunset .

The Wicho and Charlies campground on Acatenango Volcano

Wicho & Charlie’s has the best camp ground on Acatenango Volcano . They have a higher vantage point than other tour companies and they have a permanent campsite with fixed shelters for sleeping quarters, a large tent which contains the dining room and kitchen and a fire pit with plenty of camp chairs surrounding it. The Acatenango Wicho and Charlies campsite spans over two levels. We were on the lower level, which was next to the main dining room tent. The views from the camp site are awe inspiring. A couple of people ended up spending the night around the camp fire watching the volcanic displays from nearby Fuego Volcano . From the camp ground you were close enough to actually hear the eruptions.

The sleeping quarters are basically big sheds with two rows of camping cots. We were also provided with sleeping bags and a pillow each. The beds were surprisingly comfortable and the shelter provided good protection from the elements. We managed to have a decent night sleep up on the volcano, and were refreshed enough to get up early to watch the sun rise over Fuego Volcano .

The food on Wicho & Charlie’s overnight hike

We were well fed on our tour with Wicho & Charlie’s. For our hike we were given a brown paper bag which had lunch and snacks inside. We had a number of stops along the way to have morning tea and lunch and have a well deserved rest on the way. Dinner was spaghetti with a tomato based sauce, which was quite tasty.

Waking up on Acatenango Volcano

Waking up on the side of a volcano is an incredible experience! It was surreal being above the clouds and watching the sky being painted with beautiful sunrise hues. The sun rose right over nearby Pacaya Volcano , which is also an active volcano. The area was so peaceful and still. If you can wake up early enough, we definitely recommend being up before sunrise to make the most of this unique experience.

After enjoying the sunrise, we had breakfast and then began the hike back down Acatenango Volcano. The hike down was a lot quicker than the hike up, but it was still quite challenging as the loose rocks underfoot made for a slippery walk down. It took us about an hour and a half to get back down to the pickup point. We were again able to use the toilet facilities at the base of Acatenango Volcano while waiting for the minivans to pick us up and return us to Antigua Guatemala .

Back at the Wicho & Charlie’s office we had to return any gear that we had hired and we had one last chance to chat to our fellow hikers before we left.

Tips for the Acatenango Volcano hike

How hard is the acatenango hike.

The Acatenango hike difficulty is high. It’s one of the most physically demanding things we’ve ever done. Not only is the hike itself steep, but being at altitude makes it so much more difficult. We recommend only attempting this hike if you have a reasonable level of fitness and have allowed sufficient time to acclimatise to the altitude.

Preparation for the Acatenango overnight hike

We recommend you stay at least forty eight hours at altitude at either Antigua or Lake Atitlan to make sure that you’re acclimatised for the hike. You should also make sure that you’re in peak fitness because it is a very demanding hike and you want to make sure that you’re not throwing up on the way.

How to get the best photos of Fuego Volcano

Sunrise and sunset are the best times to get epic photos of Fuego Volcano . The red glow of the lava doesn’t become visible until twilight. During the day you won’t see the lava, but you’ll still see rocks flying into the air and a lot of smoke.

What to wear for the Acatenango hike

It gets very cold and windy at the top, at close to freezing temperatures, so make sure that you bring plenty of warm clothes and especially the hike to the summit. But don’t wear all of your clothes right at the beginning of the hike because you will get very hot.

The hiking trail gets very dusty, so having something to cover your mouth and nose as you’re hiking up will save you from eating a lot of dust!

The path is very rocky and slippery so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes with good grip.

Facilities on Acatenango Volcano

There are no toilets on Acatenango Volcano. Wicho & Charlie’s provides toilet paper and paper bags, and when nature calls you’ll have to find a discreet place to squat. Make sure you dispose of any paper rubbish in the bins provided. Solid waste needs to go in the bags to be disposed of in the bins provided. There are toilet cubicles just before you start the hike at the bottom of Acatenango Volcano. You will have an opportunity to use the facilities when the minivan drops you off at the base of Acatenango Volcano, just before you start the hike. You will be able to use these toilets again just before the minivan picks you up to return back to Antigua the morning after the hike.

Is Acatenango Volcano safe?

Hiking near an active volcano is not without risk. The nearby Fuego Volcano is a highly active and unpredictable volcano. Fuego Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. In early February 2021 both Fuego Volcano and nearby Pacaya Volcano both experienced increased volcanic activity.

When was the last major eruption of Fuego Volcano Guatemala?

The last catastrophic eruption of Fuego Volcano was on 3 June 2018. This eruption resulted in around 200 official deaths, and one local organisation estimated that up to 2,900 people may have actually died. This eruption happened with little warning and no time for evacuation.

Is Acatenango active?

Yes Acatenango Volcano is an active volcano. However it has been 50 years since Acatenango volcano last erupted. An active volcano is a volcano that is either erupting or is likely to erupt in future.

When was the last time Acatenango Volano erupted?

Whilst Acatenango is still an active volcano, the last known Acatenango eruption was in 1972.

Acatenango deaths

On 8th January 2017, 6 Guatemalans died while doing the Acatenango Volcano overnight hike. Weather conditions on that day were particularly hazardous, with temperatures drastically dropping to below -6 degrees celsius (21 degrees fahrenheit).

Do I need to be fit for the Acatenango Volcano hike?

To hike Acatenango Volcano you need a reasonable level of fitness. We are both very fit, but we found it VERY challenging. Keep this in mind when deciding whether this hike is the right activity for you.

Do I need to acclimatise before the Acatenango hike?

Yes! Be aware that the Acatenango hike is at altitude, with an elevation of 3,976 metres (13,044 feet). With altitude comes the risk of altitude sickness. Because of this, you will need to acclimatise at altitude at either Antigua Guatemala or Lake Atitlán Guatemala for at least 48 hours before you hike volcan Acatenango. Around 25% of our tour group were vomiting or ill throughout the night because they had not acclimatised beforehand. If you experience any signs of altitude sickness , let your guide know as soon as possible so they can take care of you.

Altitude sickness

The signs of altitude sickness are:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Shortness of Breath

General safety tips for Acatenango Volcano

Other general safety considerations for travel to Acatenango Volcano:

• Drinking water – bring 4 litres of drinking water with you on the hike and make sure you stay hydrated.
• Mosquitoes – Acatenango Volcano is at altitude, so mosquitoes aren’t an issue.
• Road safety – The roads to Acatenango Volcano are in good condition. Exercise normal road safety.
• Sun safety – The UV Index is very high in Guatemala , so sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important to ensure you don’t get burnt.

Final thoughts on the Acatenango overnight hike

The Acatenango Overnight Hike is one of the most physically demanding things we’ve done in our lives, but also one of the most rewarding. It was an amazing experience to witness the constant eruptions of Fuego Volcano and is definitely an experience you should add to your Bucket List! If you want to learn more about this incredible Guatemalan adventure, check out our Acatenango video .

Guatemala Blogs

You can find our Guatemala travel blogs below.

Why you need to visit Guatemala right now!

Top 5 Things to do in Antigua Guatemala

Why 4 days at Lake Atitlán was not nearly enough!

Tikal: Exploring Mayan Ruins in Guatemala

Semuc Champey Guatemala: A Hidden Oasis

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FIRE VOLCANO

Your best option to hike the Acatenango

Soy tours is the main local guide agency for excursions to the acatenango volcano and volcán de fuego in antigua guatemala., when it comes to climbing the acatenango, we are proud to say that we are different. we offer a special experience that leaves traces in time., what are you looking for.

Texto de referencia

Conquer the most spectacular volcanoes in Guatemala with a human team that will accompany you at your own pace.

All our guides have been certified by INGUAT, to guarantee your safety and take care of you at every step.

Discover the tour that best suits your needs. 1 day, 2 day, night tours, private groups, couples

When you hike the Acatenango with us, you actively contribute to support our community. Learn more about our work.

Our philosophy is framed by the respect of all those who, like you, dream of reaching the top of the Volcano. We are always ready to complete this adventure with safety  and respect for nature.

What our customers says

Joyce Verduyn

Soy Tours Antigua is the best pick to do this! The trekking is hard but they take enough rest, meals are good and the guides know what they are doing. When I got supersick the brought me down in the night because I needed to go down. Down I could take a shower and they gave me bed to sleep in untill the group was back. I am super thankfull that the took care of me so well.

David Angove

My trek with Soy Tours Antigua is one of the best experiences I have ever had. The guides were fantastic, the meals were really tasty and filling. Everything is set up at base camp by the time you get there, so you don’t need to worry about that. I’m super unfit but I did it, and the views of Fuego erupting and the sunrise from the summit of Acatenango made it 100% worth it.

Go with Soy Tours Antigua, it was the most incredible experience of my travels to date. The guides were amazing and organized, our tents to be set up by the time we reached base camp (a real benefit not having to carry tents) as it is a tough hike, but the views are more than worth it! Everything was really well organized from start to finish and I couldn’t recommend him more. The money also goes back to advancing the community.

“Once you start it, the trip never ends, it is repeated again and again in silent rooms. The mind can never disconnect from the journey.”

“In twenty years you will be more disappointed by the things you did not do than by the ones you did. So untie the ropes and sail away from the harbor. Catch the wind with your candles. Explore, Dream, Discover.”

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok

@soytoursantigua.

Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike: A Complete Guide

Last Updated on December 5, 2023

Doing the Acatenango Volcano overnight hike had never occurred to me until I found myself late one night in a humid Nicaraguan bar, where two women showed me videos of a volcano as it violently erupted in the middle of the night.

My jaw dropped in disbelief as I watched the lava explode into the dark sky and rush down the sides of the mountain. The women had recounted to me the story of their Volcan Acatenango hike in Guatemala. Volcan Acatenango lies directly next to Volcan Fuego, which erupts every 15 minutes.

From the base camp of Volcano Acatenango, they’d spent all night watching Volcan Fuego erupting, which is Guatemala’s most active stratovolcano.

It was the hardest hike of my life, but the most incredible thing I have ever seen, one woman told me. I was sold. …A few weeks later, my partner Lucas and I booked flights to Guatemala.

This guide covers everything you need to know for the Acatenango Volcano overnight hike, inlcuding how to book the hike, hike difficulty, and what to pack for your trek.

Why Hike Volcan Acatenango, Guatemala?

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Guatemala is worth visiting just for the experience of seeing Volcan Acatenango. It’s a stratovolcano close to the city of Antigua. It is considered a volcano complex, because over time it has developed various eruptive centres.

Acatenango Volcano has been dormant since the early 20th century, making it safe to hike. 

Connected to Volcan Acatenango is the famous Volcan de Fuego, which has been erupting since as far back as the 1500s. Volcan Fuego is aptly named: in English its name means volcano of fire.

Since 2002, its eruptions have been intense. The volcano has many small eruptions every day, and every couple of years it has a larger, more disruptive eruption.

From Acatenango, hikers can see unprecedented views of the smoke, ash, and lava as it explodes from Volcan Fuego’s crater. I’ve had incredible experiences on my travels, like sleeping in the Sahara Desert and hiking the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. 

But seeing a live volcano erupt, feeling the earth shake, witnessing hot lava spew into the sky, it’s unlike any experience I’ve ever had. I’ve written more in depth about the lessons I learned from the experience of seeing Fuego, you can read them here .  

Volcan Fuego’s last major eruption happened on June 3, 2018. That day a series of larger than normal volcanic explosions and pyroclastic flows erupted from Volcan de Fuego.

Local residents living on the slopes of the volcano are used to the volcano’s activity, but this heightened activity caught them by surprise. The pyroclastic flows claimed the lives of at least 69 Guatemalans .

The Volcan Acatenango overnight hike is popular because of the incredible views of Volcan Fuego that can be seen from Acatenango’s summit. But because the Acatenango hike brings hikers near an active volcano, yes, there’s some risk. 

Since 1524, around 60 major eruptions have been recorded. This amounts to about one every eight years. And when Fuego does erupt, the greatest risk is to the local communities that live on the slopes of the volcano.

So yes, there is a risk to hiking nearby Feugo, but the risk of Fuego erupting during the hike on Acatenango risk is low because dangerous eruptions are so infrequent. 

A few weeks after my partner and I hiked Volcan Acatenango, Volcan Fuego had a  massive eruption . The unexpected eruption killed at least 69 people, most of whom were locals living in the village just below the volcano. We had just been in Antigua in May.

I was worried for our guide and wanted to send some funds to support local communities that were effected, so I got in contact with the hostel I had stayed at.

Through some emailing back and forth, I learned that no hikers had been injured or killed in the eruption. When the guides noticed signs of an impending big eruption, there was enough time for them to get back down off of Acatenango.

This eruption was a tragedy, which shows just how unpredictable volcanoes can be. This is scary to think about and definitely worth considering before doing the Acatenango hike. Just keep in mind that while there’s some risk, such eruptions are rare.

The Acatenango hike is hard, both physically and mentally. It’s known for wreaking havoc on experienced and inexperienced hikers alike because of it’s steep incline. Acatenango is 3,976 meters tall, temperatures drop the higher you climb and altitude sickness is likely. 

Most of the hike is on a steep incline which becomes tougher the higher you hike. Total elevation gain is 5150 ft./ 1500 m.

The final hour of the hike is the toughest because by that point, you are so high up that you’re climbing through volcanic sand instead of solid ground. Combined with the altitude, it’s strenuous. 

All this said, Luke and I don’t consider ourselves to be seasoned hikers. We do enjoy hiking and do it often, but we don’t think of ourselves as experienced, or especially fit. The weeks leading up to Acatenango, we did some jogging and climbing in a local rock climbing gym, to make sure we had basic fitness on our side. 

I think that with some will power and a base level of fitness, anyone can do this hike! Just be prepared to be challenged. 

Hiking Acatenango to the summit takes in total between six to eight hours, depending on your pace. The trip back down is done much quicker, between two to three hours. The total distance of the hike, return trip, adds up to about 18 kilometers, which is done over the course of two days.

The hike is broken into two parts. The first part is done on day one and takes around six hours. This hike brings you to base camp, where you have dinner, rest, and sleep. From base camp you already have views of Volcan Fuego that are spectacular, so some hikers choose to skip summiting the next morning.

Weather permitting, you start the summit early the next day (we started at 3:45 AM). It’s a much shorter hike, but is the toughest part because it is straight up, and you’re hiking through volcanic sand, in complete darkness. But it’s worth the reward: sunrise views while watching Volcan Fuego erupt. 

How Do You Get to Volcan Acatenango 

Antigua is the gateway to Volcan Acatenango. The small Guatemalan city is a popular stop for most travelers to Guatemala because of its Spanish colonial architecture.

In Antigua you can visit museums, enjoy incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes, visit artisan markets, and more.

On a clear day, you can actually see Volcan Acatenango from Antigua! That’s because the volcano, and Fuego as well, are very nearby Antigua. Any travelers wanting to do the Acatenango hike will use Antigua as their starting point because of this proximity.

Most travelers will head to Antigua via Guatemala City. This transfer is easy to do by bus or by taxi, and takes just over an hour depending on traffic. 

Antigua is a must-see in Guatemala, so I recommend spending a few days there before you embark on the Acatenango climb. And, there’s an added benefit to hanging out in Antigua beforehand.

Antigua is at an elevation of 5,029 feet (1,533 metres). Spending a few days adjusting to that altitude before your Acatenango Volcano overnight hike will help lessen the shock of altitude on the hike.

The trailhead for Volcano Acatenango is located near Aldea de Soledad, which is about a one hour drive from Antigua. While it’s apparently possible to hike Acatenango without a guide, I would not recommend it. 

The trails are not marked, and it’s much safer to do the hike with local guides who are experienced and know the volcano and weather patterns well.

I also really encourage travelers to give back to the communities they visit, this is one of the ways I believe we can all be more responsible tourists. In this case, paying a local guide to bring you up Acatenango is a way to contribute to the local economy.

Doing the hike with a guide, on a tour or private, is also easier because all of the logistics are handled for you. Gear like extra clothing, headlamps, tents, and food are all provided by the tour company, and they arrange your drive from Antigua to the trailhead and back. 

There are many tour companies in Antigua that offer overnight trips up Volcano Acatenango. We opted to book through the hostel that we stayed in in Antigua, which was Matiox Hostal.

We paid 50.00 USD each, which was on the low end of the prices we saw around Antigua. Sadly, Matiox has since closed it’s doors, but there are plenty of other hostels that you can stay in, and they’ll happily arrange your Volcan Acatenango hike for you.

When you arrange your Acatenango Volcano overnight hike through your hostel, you don’t really know which tour company you are going with. While we were happy with our experience, it was definitely a “budget” experience. We weren’t given the greatest food, and the tents and sleeping gear at base camp were very basic.

We didn’t mind this because we had packed extra snacks, and we ended up staying up most of the night to watch the volcano. All that said, our guide was friendly and informative, and we had an incredible experience.

We did later learn that if you pay to go with one of the more expensive tour companies, the amenities are better. While we slept 3 people in each small tent with very basic sleeping bags, other companies have safari-style tents that are larger and have more comfortable sleeping arrangements.

We were super happy with our experience doing the hike through Matiox, but if you’re looking for more options, we heard other travelers raving about doing the hike through Tropicana Hostel .

I have also heard good things about  OX Expeditions . They’ve been around since 2004 and are widely known as Guatemala’s top guiding service. I also heard other travelers in Antigua.

Hostels and hotels in Antigua know that many travelers do the overnight hike, and they provide a locker for you to leave your luggage in for the night. That way you’re not caring all your things up the volcano with you. 

The Volcan Acatenango hike varies a lot in price depending on what tour company you go with and what is included in the tour. While shopping around for tours in Antigua, we noticed that they range from about 50 USD, which is what we paid, up to 100 USD. Tours typically include basic food, a tent and sleeping gear. In doing the hike, there will be a few extra costs on top of the tour price.

• The park entrance fee – Q110 (about $15 USD).
• Equipment rental – Will range depending on what you rent, but prices are low. Expect to spend around 20 USD for all the gear needed.
• Porter – Porters can be hired to bring your baggage up Acatenango. Prices are about 20 USD both directions (up and down).
• Food – We spent about 10 USD on water and extra snacks which we brought along on our hike.

On climb day, we were picked up by a shuttle. Our Acatenango hiking group was approximately 9 people. We were driven to the base of Volcan Acatenango to spot called La Soledad where we bought walking sticks, extra snacks, ponchos (for the rain) and beer (to celebrate the summit)!

Our guide explained that as we climbed Volcan Acatenango we would stop often to rest, and we should go slowly. A short walk up the road, and we began on the path.

Some of our fellow climbers warned us that backpackers had told them the first leg of the climb was the hardest. They were absolutely right.  The Volcan Acatenango hike is tough,

The dirt path was steep and within minutes I felt myself going faint, eventually collapsing to the side of the path, certain that I was going to vomit. Our guide had told us that if we wanted to forfeit doing the Acatenango hike, we would have to decide within that first leg of the climb.

I lay there seriously contemplating giving up, but remembered what one of the backpackers had mentioned – in the first leg of the Acatenango hike your body is acclimatizing to the altitude, and this makes it the hardest.

Behind me I could see our guide half carrying one of our group’s climbers, urging him forwards.

I peered ahead at my partner and pushed on, promising myself it would get easier as we climbed. When the first rest break came, Lucas and I lay exhausted on the ground, deliberating.

This was our only opportunity to turn back, and so if we wanted to forfeit the Acatenango Volcano overnight hike, we had to do so now. We had come so far, and dreamed of this experience for so long. So we pledged we would push on.

Our bodies did acclimatize and the feeling of faintness and nausea subsided. We went slowly and often stopped. What we had heard was true: the first 10-20 minutes of the Volcano Acatenango trek are the hardest.

Afterwards, things do get easier! As we climbed the landscape changed quickly, from lush farmland to humid jungle. This eventually evolved into a barren landscape scattered with few trees.

Our group was dead silent while climbing volcano Acatenango. It felt meditative to stare at the boots in front of me. I fixed my eyes on them and focused on keeping pace. The steep terrain was never-ending and I constantly dreamed of when it would flatten. 

After five hours, our guide announced that we were almost there. The last few kilometers of hiking to Volcano Acatenango base camp Lucas and I listened to our favourite songs, singing as we walked. The terrain had flattened and we knew the incredible view was just around the corner.

The Volcan Acatenango hike will take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours depending on your pace. We reached Volcan Acatenango’s base camp in the early evening.

At an elevation of 3,750 meters, this left the Acatenango summit (226 meters higher) to be hiked the following morning. Our base camp had several tents set up, and our guide distributed sleeping bags.

We were overheated from hiking, but he assured us that the temperature would drop drastically overnight. As our fire got going, night fell, and the magic began. The clouds had parted and the earth had started rumbling.

We had our first full view of Volcan Fuego. Suddenly, lava exploded into the sky like orange fireworks, followed by a huge bang as the lava flowed down the sides of the Fuego.

All of us gasped, mesmerized: instantly, hiking volcano Acatenango (and all the accompanying pain) was absolutely worth it. We stayed awake late into the night watching the volcano work its magic.

I eventually tucked myself into my sleeping bag, but sleep was impossible with the ongoing interruptions of the mountain.

Some of the most incredible Fuego eruptions happened in the middle of the night. I would sleep a few hours, and then wake up to unzip the tent to watch the magic.

Our guide had explained that at 3:45am we should get up for the final portion of the hike: the Acatenango summit. We would hike through volcanic sand in complete darkness to reach the highest point of Volcan Acatenango, and from there we would have a clear view of Volcan Fuego. 

The summit hike is somewhat dangerous, and so it is only done if the weather permits. Our guide explained that he would assess the weather in the morning. We awoke with good news – we could summit. I packed some water, grabbed my walking stick and put on my headlamp.

The hike was straight upwards and excruciating. The volcanic sand and dirt made every step more challenging, and it was difficult to maintain balance. We stopped often to rest as people felt lightheaded from the altitude.

The sky began to lighten as we climbed, and slowly the incredible view revealed itself. In the distance we could see Antigua, Guatemala City, and a string of other volcanoes.

After 1.5 hours, we reached the top of Volcano Acatenango. A closed crater, the terrain was rocky, sandy and barren. As the sun rose, Fuego erupted. The magnificent view was like nothing I’ve ever seen before: an erupting volcano firmly reminds you how small you are in the scope of this earth.

After thirty minutes of enjoying the Acatenango summit views, it was time to return to Acatenango base camp to prepare for the full descent. The volcanic sand that had burdened us on the hike up proved to be fun on the way back down.

After slowly inching down the steep decline, I realized that my best option was to give into the force of gravity and run down.

Our group began to bound down the sandy slope, laughing whenever one of us (inevitably) slipped and fell. Once back to base camp we watched a couple more Fuego eruptions before our guide informed us that it was time to start the longer descent to the base of Volcan Acatenango. 

The descent took our group three hours. Though it was hard on the knees, our group was in a great mood given the rewarding night we’d had.

Once back at the base of Volcan Acatenango, our guide brought us to his family home where a delicious breakfast of eggs, beans and coffee awaited us. After breakfast, we were transported back to our hostel in Antigua where we spent the rest of the day enjoying some hard-earned rest.

Yes, some of the tour companies in Antigua offer 1-day hiking tours which bring you up to the summit of Acatenango and back down, without staying overnight in base camp. While it’s possible to do this, I only recommend it if you’re pressed for time.

There’s a couple reasons why. First, the Volcan Acatenango hike is really tough. It’s a lot to try to do in one day. I found that having a night to rest in between the first half of the hike and summiting, plus descending, was really helpful for coping with the altitude and strain on my body.

Second, if you do a 1-day hike, you miss one of the best parts. Seeing Volcan Fuego erupt at night! It’s only after nightfall that you can really see the lava coming out of the volcano’s crater, and it’s truly unreal. Base camp on Acatenango is perfectly positioned so that you have a full view of the volcano all night long.

Watching Fuego at night is a highlight of the Volcano Acatenango hike, so if you can manage a 2-day trek, go for it!

The Typical Volcan Acatenango Hike Itinerary

When you do the Acatenango trek with a tour company, the 2-day itinerary will follow this loose plan. This was how our 2 days went, and we noticed that most of the other trekking tours were following the same schedule, within a window of an hour or two. To know the exact itinerary of your trek, I would contact the guiding company in advance.

• 8:00 AM – Pickup, or meet at pick up spot, followed by a 1.5 hour bus ride.
• 10:00 AM – Begin hiking.
• 12:00 PM – Stop for lunch.
• 5:00 PM – Arrive at base camp, relax.
• 6:00 PM – Dinner and campfire.
• 3:45 AM – Wake up and start summit hike.
• 5:45 AM – Reach summit, watch the sunrise.
• 7:00 AM – Short rest to eat snacks.
• 7:30 AM – Start descending.
• 10:30 AM – Full breakfast in nearby village.
• 11:30 AM – Drive back to Antigua.

While hiking Acatenango, the temperature will gradually drop. And up at base camp and the summit, it’s quite cold. Because of this, it’s important to bring lots of warm layers for the trek. Since chilly weather isn’t the norm for Guatemala at lower altitudes, most travelers end up needing to rent clothing for the trek.

You can rent gear through your tour company, from an outfitter, or even from your hostel in Antigua. Our hostel actually had a bin of clothing that we were allowed to borrow items from for the trek.

If you are like me and feel cold easily, bring as many layers as you can! At night, the temperature dropped to about 0 degrees, and I ended up sleeping in every layer that I’d brought. I wore a long sleeve shirt, light down jacket, and fleece sweater over the jacket. I slept in all these layers, and even put a second pair of leggings on over my hiking leggings.

It’s possible to do the Volcan Acatenango hike in sneakers or runners, but if you’re able to bring your hiking boots for the trek I recommend doing so. Hiking boots will make for a far more comfortable experience. Make sure you have worn them in prior to the hike. I did the hike in my Salomon boots and they were perfect for it.

What to Pack for Your Volcano Acatenango Trek

A headlamp will be useful for the overnight at base camp. But it was pretty crucial for the early morning hike to the Acatenango summit , too. When you start the summit hike, it’s very dark out. A headlamp makes it easier to see what’s ahead of you and where to step as you climb.

The portable charger will come in handy for keeping your phone and other electronics (like a camera) charged up. Most of the camps at Acatenango base camp do not have electricity.

Some hikers took medication prior to the hike for altitude sickness. We did not, but we both took acetaminophen to ease the headaches. I also carried and used my inhaler, which helped immensely.

If you’d like to take medication for altitude sickness, talk to your doctor ahead of time. And of course, bring any of the medications that you think you *might* need with you on the hike. Better to be safe than sorry!

Electrolyte tabs or hydration salts can be added to your water. We proactively added tabs to our water to ensure we stayed well hydrated while we hiked up Volcan Acatenango.

I bring a dry bag for any and all outdoor excursions. We carried our passports, wallets, and cameras on the Volcan Acatenango hike, and having the dry bag gave peace of mind that in the event of rain, we could keep these important items dry. Rain isn’t uncommon on Volcan Acatenango , so I’d bring one along.

Get yourself a walking stick or trekking poles! You will absolutely need them. At the start of the trek you will see locals renting out wooden walking sticks for 1 USD or less. You will also see ponchos for sale. We did not need the ponchos in the end, but bought them anyway because weather on the mountain is unpredictable.

I recommend doing the trek with a daypack (10-20 litre capacity). Your hostel will give you a locker to stow your things in while on the trek, so you will bring only your water, food, headlamp, passport, extra clothing and camera.

Bring LOTS of water. You’ll be working hard as you trek up Acatenango, and so it’s important to stay hydrated. We brought 3 litres of water each, which we carefully rationed to ourselves. That said, if I had carried more water, I would have drunk it!

Bring extra snacks on your volcan Acatenango hike. The guides provide meals but they are very small, and most people on our trek needed more food. I carried bananas and Clif bars to supplement my meals.

Remember to practise respect during your trek, and your entire stay in Guatemala, because you’re a guest. This means that during the hike, be sure to pack in and pack out. Disturb as little of the land and nature as possible, and don’t leave behind any garbage.

I recommend reading my responsible tourism guide for more tips on how to travel responsibly.

More about Guatemala:

• Guatemala Itinerary: Best Things to Do and See
• Lessons Learned From a Live Volcano: Hiking Volcan Acatenango
• Is Guatemala Worth Visiting? 5 Reasons to Go to Guatemala

Erin has been traveling for over a decade, both solo, and with her partner. She’s now traveled to countries across 6 continents, and has lived in 2 countries abroad. Erin also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism , where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism. Learn more about Erin, and get in touch with her, here .

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How to visit the pyramids of teotihuacan without a tour, lessons from a live volcano: hiking acatenango volcano, xochimilco floating gardens: day trip from mexico city, how to visit the mayan folk saint maximón in lake atitlan, 31 thoughts on “acatenango volcano overnight hike: a complete guide”.

wow this hike looks incredible! I would love to experience something like this

Wow, what an adventure. The views look spectacular. I would love to visit here some day!

Oh wow! This looks like so much fun. I will definitely have to add this to my bucket list.

This is so cool! I always said when my older son has graduated I’ll take him traveling and he would love this!

This looks difficult but very rewarding. I loved seeing your photos!

Wow! What an amazing experience you had!!!

That view is priceless..! Thanks for sharing such an inspiring photo, I’ve always planned to have one like this but my schedule is so tight. Sad.. 🙁

This is quite an experience you’ve had! The pictures are incredible. And your memories are to keep forever.

Wow, such a great experience you had..! And I would definitely love to go hiking if I could have a photo like that at the end. 😘

UMM GIRL ! You are craaaazy (in a good way). My two nieces are currently in Guatemala and every time I hear about something happening my senses are heightened.

Wow you got a selfie with a volcano. I have always thought Volcanos so fascinating.

This is in my overflowing bucket list from long. Looks like you had great experience and you enjoyed alot.

That’s quite an experience. I’d be terrified to hear an active volcano nearby.

Oh wow. My grandmother’s husband is from Guatemala and he says volcanoes like this one are hard to climb.

Sounds like you guys had a wonderful time during your hike and the place looks absolutely amazing. It must’ve been a great experience to be able to reach your destination and see the volcano.

Gorgeous volcano! I love hiking and Guatemala is on my list of places to visit so I greatly appreciate this post.

wow, that’s incredible sharing!!!! Proud of you that you made it through from the very hard beginning, and also jealous that I would like to have a chance to hike a volcano !!!!

Wow! What an incredible journey! I don’t think I would have made it through the hike. Such beautiful photos!!

Hi !! Me and my friend are planning to hike Acatenango during the spring break.

Our question: Do you think we have to plan more than one night in Antigua (1500m) to acclimatize to the altitude before climbing?

Our doubt lies in the fact that Antigua is at only 1500m. We then wonder if we really will be acclimating at this altitude.

Thank you so much for your advise !

You have beautiful photos by the way 🙂

Hey Isabelle! We spent 3 days in Antigua before doing the hike, but who knows if that actually helped us at all with altitude sickness. We didn’t feel any altitude sickness while we were in Antigua – but people who did told us it subsiding after 1-3 days there.

Acclimatization has alot to do with the altitude that you are used to, so I would take this into account. I spend most of my year in Toronto which is at a really low altitude (76 meters), so hiking Acatenango was a shock to my body. But if you happen to be from a higher altitude place, you might find it easier because your body is already used to a higher altitude.

I’d recommend spending a full 24 hours in Antigua if you can fit in the time – play it safe. You could also talk with a doctor about taking acetazolamide (altitude sickness medication) before the trip. One of the people in our group took it and she had zero sickness the whole hike!

Glad this post was helpful for you, and enjoy Guatemala! The Acatenango hike is honestly one of the most memorable things I’ve ever done, I’m excited for you 🙂

This looks like such an epic hike Pina!! Would love to do this hike some day! Thanks for sharing your adventure! xx Amber

What an absolutely EPIC hike! I’ve done Vesuvius but that’s nothing compare to this haha! Definitely adding this my bucket list!!!

This looks like so much fun and you give some awesome tips! Saving and adding it to my bucket list now!

Wooooow! I love hiking, and I really love volcanoes, so this sounds like an amaaazing (if exhausting) holiday to me. 1500m elevation gain is exhausting even from sea level, so I can see why it would be hard starting higher up. Eep.

p.s. the way you hiked, going up in the day, then saving the final push for the sunrise is the same way most people climb Mt Fuji in Japan. Now you’ve done this, you could totally manage that one too. 😀

WOW that thing is huge!! Love how you photographed so many different angles of it and especially love your cute selfies in front! Adorable!

OMG What an amazing experience!! The elevation gain certainly sounds tough and as though training was definitely in order! Finishing while the sun was rising would have been stunning!

WOW!!! Oh my god what an incredible experience. I don’t think I could ever do this but it’s so admirable. It seems like a once in a lifetime experience for sure.

This sounds incredible, Pina! And a bit exhausting, hope your knees mended well after it

wow! this looks like a great trek, would love to experience it one day.

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The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

Volcan Acatenango hike: A bucket list adventure in Guatemala

The Acatenango Volcano hike is a must-have experience for every nature lover and adventure seeker visiting Guatemala. It’s one of my all-time favorite hikes and thinking back to those phenomenal views from Acatenango still gives me goosebumps.

The challenging but spectacular hike takes you to the summit of Central America’s third-highest volcano and offers an epic panorama of the Guatemalan highlands. However, the absolute best part of the Acatenango trek is witnessing the eruptions of the neighboring Volcan Fuego. 

Seeing the glowing red lava burst into the night sky and hearing the roars of the volcano is a surreal experience which you’ll never forget. It’s a true spectacle of nature that will leave you speechless!

In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your Acatenango hike, including the difficulty level, the best time to do it, the best tour options, what to pack and some practical tips from my personal experience of doing this iconic trek.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

General info about the Acatenango hike

Type of hike: out-and-back Distance: 17km (10 mi) + 5.5km (3.4 mi) if you also want to hike to Fuego Difficulty: difficult Time: 1.5 days Altitude: 3,976m (13,000 ft) Elevation gain: 1,600m (5,250ft)

Volcan Acatenango is a 3,976m (13,000 ft) tall stratovolcano near the city of Antigua in southern Guatemala. Although it is technically considered an active volcano, it had its last eruption in 1972 and is currently safe to hike.

Right next to Acatenango sits the majestic Volcan Fuego aka the Volcano of Fire, one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. Fuego has small eruptions about every 15 minutes, which you can watch from a safe distance at Acatenango. It has larger eruptions every 4-5 years and the last one was in May 2023, just a few weeks after our hike.

During the day, you can see Fuego Volcano spew out tall columns of ash and smoke. However, the real show starts at night when you can watch the luminous red lava burst out of its crater and trickle down its sides. It’s a truly incredible sight and for many travelers (including myself), it ends up being one of the highlights of their Guatemala trip .

How to hike Acatenango

The Volcan Acatenango hike is usually done as a guided overnight hike. The tours depart from the city of Antigua and take about 1.5 days in total. I’ll go into detail about the best Acatenango tour options later in this blog post.

On the first day of the tour, you’ll hike up to Acatenango Base Camp at 3,600m/11,800ft, where you’ll spend the night in a tent or a basic cabin and get to enjoy amazing nighttime views of Volcan Fuego. From the base camp, you also have the option to do the additional Volcan Fuego hike. 

Next morning you’ll hike to the summit of Acatenango for sunrise before heading back down and returning to Antigua.

It is possible to hike Acatenango in one day if you’re short on time but I highly recommend including the full overnight tour in your Guatemala itinerary if you can. The best part is seeing Fuego erupt at night but you’d miss out on that if you do a one-day tour.

It is also possible to do the Acatenango hike without a guide but I wouldn’t recommend it. Doing a guided hike – whether as part of a group or privately – is not only safer because the guides are experts on the volcanoes but it is also much easier because food, tents/cabins and transport are organized for you (at least on most tours). 

I really wouldn’t want to carry my own tent, sleeping bag and cooking gear (in addition to all the other things you’ll need) to the top of the volcano. It would make the hike significantly harder. Also, hiring a guide is a great way to support the local economy.

Volcan Acatenango hike difficulty

The Acatenango Volcano hike is generally considered a challenging hike. Many people describe it as grueling, brutal and the hardest hike they’ve ever done. I personally didn’t find the hike super challenging. I’d say that for anyone who’s used to hiking, has a reasonable level of fitness and trains a little bit for Acatenango in advance, this hike is totally doable. 

The trail is quite steep and uphill almost the entire way but it’s not too strenuous because you’ll take a lot of breaks and hike pretty slowly if you’re with a tour group. And in case you do find it hard, you can always hire a porter to carry your backpack or you can slow down your pace.

To physically prepare yourself for the hike, I recommend doing leg workouts, going on walks with a heavy backpack and doing some of the easier hikes in Guatemala, such as Pacaya or the Indian Nose hike (a must-do hike at Lake Atitlan). 

Also, you should acclimatize yourself to the altitude before climbing Acatenango to reduce the chances of getting altitude sickness. Spend at least 48 hours in Antigua, Guatemala City, Lake Atitlan or any other place with a similar altitude (1,500m/4920ft) before the hike.

If you’re prone to getting altitude sickness, bring medication from your home country to mitigate that. Otherwise, being acclimatized, staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol and caffeine before the hike should be sufficient for most people to handle the elevation.

Tip: If you think hiking Acatenango is too big of an endeavor for you, it is also possible to get almost to the base camp of the volcano by a 4×4 car with this tour .

Best tour options for the trek

Since the Acatenango trek is one of the most famous volcano hikes in Guatemala, there are numerous tour companies offering guided overnight tours, most of them based in Antigua.

The tours usually include transport, food and hot drinks, cabins or tents with sleeping bags and sometimes even equipment rental. Also, some tours include the 110 GTQ park entrance fee whereas others ask you to pay that at the volcano.

On most tours, once you reach the base camp, you can also do the additional Fuego Volcano hike if you have the energy. The hike to Fuego and back is a 5.5km (3.4 mi) round trip and will give you a close-up view of the volcano if the sky is clear. It usually costs 200-300 GTQ extra.

Here are the Acatenango hike tours I recommend and the tour that I did:

Acatenango tour with OX Expeditions : This is the classic 2-day, 1-night tour with one of the most reputable tour companies in Guatemala. Their camp has comfortable wooden cabins with a volcano view and you can rent gear like backpacks and warm clothes for free. They also organize a meeting the day before the tour to give information about everything you should bring and what to expect.

Acatenango tour with V-Hiking : This is the tour I did. Overall it was a great experience – the cabins and sleeping bags were comfortable, the camp had a nice view and the food was decent. What I didn’t like though was their time management. On day 2 we almost missed the sunrise from the summit because our group was moving so slowly. 

Acatenango Glamping tour : If you don’t like the idea of sleeping in a basic tent or a cabin, you have the option of staying in a comfortable spacious glamping tent with a proper bed instead. It’s the only camp of its kind on Acatenango.

One-day tour : As I said earlier, if you’re short on time you can do the Acatenango day hike. I definitely recommend the overnight tour instead but if you can’t fit it into your travel plans, doing the day hike is better than not doing the hike at all.

Itinerary for the Acatenango overnight hike

Below I’m describing what you can expect on each of the days of the hike. The exact itinerary can vary a bit depending on the tour company but in general, all the Acatenango Volcano overnight hike tours follow a similar schedule.

Day 1: Trek to base camp and Fuego

You will either be picked up from your hotel in Antigua or you will meet at the tour company’s office early in the morning. Then you’ll drive for one hour to La Soledad where the Acatenango trailhead is located. Before starting the hike, you will usually also have breakfast in a nearby restaurant or, in our case, at the tour operator’s house. 

The trek up to the base camp takes 5-6 hours. Since it’s a popular hike, you can expect to see lots of people on the trail. Along the way, there are a few vendors selling snacks, soft drinks and even alcohol in little makeshift kiosks.

What makes the ascent to the base camp interesting is that the scenery is changing all the time. You will hike through four different ecosystems – farmland, tropical cloud forest, high alpine forest and finally, volcanic terrain. The cloud forest with its lush moss-covered trees and humid air was definitely my favorite part.

As you get closer to the camp, the terrain flattens, the vegetation becomes more sparse and you’ll get your first glimpse of Volcan Fuego. It’s an exhilarating moment that will make all the effort worthwhile!

You will arrive at your camp at around 3pm. Now it’s time to relax, have lunch and take in the magical view of Fuego spitting out plumes of smoke.

In the late afternoon or evening, those who want can hike to Fuego with a guide. It’s about a 3-hour round trip hike from the base camp but is much steeper than the hike to Acatenango. On the other hand, you won’t be carrying your heavy backpack so in that sense it’s easier. 

We did the Fuego hike but unfortunately didn’t get any views of it while there because it got completely wrapped in clouds just when we arrived. Thankfully, the sky cleared up when we got back to base camp.

As the night falls, it’s time to sit back, have dinner and enjoy the best part of this whole hike –  watch Fuego spew out glowing red lava into the dark sky. It’s a bucket-list-worthy moment and a surreal experience to see a volcano erupt in front of you!

While it’s tempting to stay up all night to watch the lava show, it would be wise to get some sleep before the early alarm on Day 2.

Day 2: Trek to Acatenango’s summit and back down

You will wake up at 3.45am and get ready to hike to the summit of Acatenango to be there by sunrise. This portion of the hike is by no means mandatory and you can just wait in the camp if you don’t feel like doing it. 

The hike from the camp to the summit takes 1-1.5 hours and you’ll be walking on loose volcanic gravel up a steep slope. Some people consider this the hardest part of the entire Acatenango hike. I didn’t think it was too bad though because you won’t have to carry your heavy backpack there.

As we climbed up the volcano, the sky started turning pink and lighting up the landscape around us. Once at the summit, we were rewarded with a spectacular view of the perfectly conical Agua volcano and Fuego volcano erupting in the golden glow of the sunrise.

Then it was time to hike back down to the camp, have breakfast, pack up our stuff and start the descent to the base of the volcano. 

The hike down takes about 2.5 hours. It’s much easier than the hike up because you won’t be carrying the weight of your food and water but it can be a bit hard on the knees. Once down, your van will pick you up and you’ll be back in Antigua at around 1pm.

Best time to hike Acatenango

The best time to hike Volcan Acatenango is from November to April, which is the dry season. During these months, you’re more likely to have clear views and no rain. December to February are the clearest but also the coldest months.

With that said, Acatenango tours run all year round and you can definitely climb it during the rainy season. There is just a higher risk that the clouds will cover the view and you won’t see Volcan Fuego as much. You’ll spend so many hours on the volcano though that there’s a good chance the clouds will clear up at some point during your trek.

We did the hike in April and had great weather with no rain and only occasional clouds. At the start of the hike, it was 23°C (73°F) and it got gradually colder as we ascended. At night, the temperature dropped to about 0°C (32°F).

Acatenango Volcano trek map

To get an idea of where the Acatenango trail starts and where the base camp and summit are located, take a look at the map below. Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map for more details.

Practical tips for hiking Acatenango and Fuego

Bring layers of clothes: You might want to start the hike in shorts and a T-shirt (depending on the weather) but as you get to higher elevation and cool down from the hike, you’ll need a lot more layers. I ended up wearing a Merino wool shirt, fleece, light down jacket, leggings, pants, woolen socks, scarf, beanie and gloves. Bring also another pair of socks, a rain poncho/jacket and a bandana to protect your face from the dust.

Wear proper shoes: Worn-in hiking boots are best but trainers will also work (but their grip is not as good).

Bring a backpack: It should be at least 35 liters and you can usually rent it from your tour company. Leave your other luggage in the tour company’s office or your hotel.

Other gear to bring: Headlamp (for the Fuego hike and the sunrise); power bank, lightweight tripod (to take photos at night) and sunglasses. 

Hiking poles: You can usually rent a walking stick or hiking poles for a very low price from your tour operator or from locals at the trailhead (about 10 GTQ). They help a lot with stability and grip on the loose gravel.

Bring a plastic bag: It’s for your waste. Everything you bring up to the volcano you also need to bring down. It can also be useful for storing wet clothes.

Water: The general recommendation is to bring 3-4 liters per person. There’s no water on the way (apart from a few vendors that may or may not be there) or at the base camp so you have to bring what you need.

Snacks: Although meals are usually included in the tours, you’ll probably want to have some extra snacks such as nuts, muesli bars, cookies etc.

Toilets: There are proper toilets near the start of the trail but at the base camp they are very basic and without running water. Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Toiletries: Remember to bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, lip balm (the air is very dry up there), sunscreen.

Cash: You’ll need it in case you want to hire a porter (200 GTQ one way), pay for the toilet near the start of the trail (5 GTQ), pay for the park entrance fee (110 GTQ unless it’s included in your tour) or buy snacks from vendors along the trail.

Altitude sickness: Bring altitude sickness pills if that gives you peace of mind, preferably from your home country because you usually need a prescription for it. Or just stay in Antigua 48 hours beforehand to acclimatize and avoid alcohol and caffeine before the hike.

Dogs: There are lots of friendly stray dogs living on Acatenango volcano. You might want to bring dog treats for them.

Where to stay before and after the hike

Almost all Acatenango tours start and end in Antigua, so I recommend staying there before and after the trek. It’s a really charming historical town with lots to see and do.

Here are the hotels in Antigua I recommend:

BUDGET & MID-RANGE: Barbara’s Boutique Hostel   A small hotel in a lovely historic building just a 10-minute walk from the center of Antigua. It has both private rooms and shared dorms. There’s also a shared kitchen and a small rooftop and they serve free cake every day!

LUXURY: Hotel Casa Santo Domingo This is Antigua’s most famous 5-star hotel. I spent two nights here and it exceeded all my expectations. The hotel has a really unique ambience as it’s set in the ruins of an old convent. Also, there’s an amazing spa where you can pamper your sore body after the hike.

If you want to know more about what to expect when staying at this iconic hotel, read my detailed review of Hotel Casa Santo Domingo .

I hope that this post convinced you to add the Acatenango Volcano trek to your bucket list because it’s an experience you really shouldn’t miss in Guatemala!

If you have any questions about the hike, feel free to leave them in the comments and I’ll get back to you.

Be sure to also read my other Guatemala travel guides to plan the rest of your trip:

• The perfect 10-day Guatemala itinerary
• How to visit the Mayan ruins of Tikal
• Guide to visiting El Paredon
• 12 best places to visit in Guatemala
• Indian Nose sunrise hike at Lake Atitlan

Enjoyed reading about the Acatenango hike? Pin it!

Review: Hotel Casa Santo Domingo, the most iconic hotel in Antigua Guatemala

Visiting Tikal in Guatemala: Everything you need to know

Why you should visit El Paredon, Guatemala + best things to do

Indian Nose hike in Guatemala: Best sunrise view at Lake Atitlan

10 days in Guatemala: An unforgettable Guatemala itinerary

Guatemala highlights & best places to visit

Great report of Antigua

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Hiking Acatenango Volcano – Overnight Trek Guatemala

Hiking Acatenango Volcano is one of the best things to do in Antigua . Heck it’s one of the top things to do in Guatemala , correction, one of the top things to do in Central America because this Volcano Acatenango hike involves an overnight stay and the chance to see an active volcano erupt during the night.

In this article , I’ll go over everything you need to know to prepare for your overnight trek, what to expect on your Acatenango hike and give you my honest review.  At the end of the post, I’ll add any necessary tips that will aid you in your trip to Guatemala.

For full transparency,  I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post which gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. If you find this post useful, you can also treat Jess to a cup coffee by clicking the icon on the bottom of the page. This will allow me to continue to create more content for you to enjoy ☕️. 

Table of Contents

About the Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike

Guatemala has 37 named volcanos and three of them are active – Pacaya, Fuego, and Santiaguito.  These volcanos attract travelers from all over the world to witness the shear power and beauty up close.

One of the best ways to do this is by hiking Acatenango Volcano on an overnight trek, spending the night on Acatenango Volcano which is adjacent to the active Fuego Volcano.

Fuego Volcano is extremely predictable with eruptions happening every half hour or so.  Therefore, travelers who can make the steep climb and brave the cold weather are almost guaranteed to see this volcano erupt in all its glory.

Since this is one of the best ways to view an active volcano, it also makes it one of the most popular things to do in Guatemala, therefore a little preplanning will only enhance your experience.  If you love adventure and don’t mind a little bit of physical activity, hiking Acatenango Volcano on an overnight trek will be right up your alley.

Acatenango Volcano Facts

Acatenango Volcano is one of the most iconic and imposing stratovolcanoes in Guatemala.  Here are some facts about Acatenango Volcano.

• Location : Acatenango is part of the Central American Volcanic Arc and is located in the western part of Guatemala, near the city of Antigua.
• Elevation: Acatenango Volcano is the third highest peak in Central America, standing at an impressive 13,045 feet (3,976 meters) above sea level.
• Twin Volcanoes: Acatenango forms a twin volcano complex with Volcán de Fuego, an active stratovolcano.  The twin volcanoes are connected by a saddle known as La Horqueta.
• Acatenango is a popular trekking destination , attracting adventurers who seek a challenging hike and breathtaking views of nearby Fuego Volcano.  The overnight Acatenango hike involves camping on the slopes of Acatenango.
• Volcan Fuego:  as it is called in Spanish, erupts often and quite frequently.
• To witness these eruptions, you will have to hike up Acatenango, for front row views of Fuego.
• While it is possible to hike Acatenango in a single day, spending the night is the most convenient and well-liked approach to see Fuego’s well-known eruptions.
• Numerous tour companies provide overnight hikes to stay in their “base camp” on Acatenango, where you will enjoy breathtaking views of Fuego’s lava-spewing eruptions all night long.
• Sunrise Views: One of the main attractions for hikers of Volcan Acatenango is the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunrise from the summit, with panoramic views of surrounding volcanoes and the distant landscapes of Guatemala.

Acatenango Volcano Hike Stats

Hiking Acatenango Volcano is a challenging and rewarding adventure that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.  Here are the stats.

• Elevation Gain:  The Acatenango hike involves a substantial elevation gain.  Hikers typically start from an elevation of around 7,546 feet (2,300 meters) and ascend to the summit at 13,045 feet (3,976 meters).
• Distance: The round-trip distance for the Acatenango hike is about 9 miles (not including hiking Fuego or to the summit for sunrise, I’ll explain more later on).
• Duration:  Hiking Acatenango Volcano is usually completed over a 2 day period.  The first day involves several hours of ascending to reach the high-altitude base camp, where hikers will spend the night (+ an optional hike to Fuego Volcano).  The second day includes an optional early mourning ascent to the summit for sunrise views, followed by the descent.
• Type of Hike: Out and back
• Difficulty:  Strenuous.  Participants should be in moderate/good physical condition.
• Trail Terrain:  The trail is mainly volcanic dirt and rocks, with sections of loose gravel and volcanic rocks.  The trail includes steep and rocky sections, adding to the overall challenge.
• Base Camp Altitude: The Acatenango base camp, sits at an elevation of around 11,800 feet or 3,600 meters.
• Temperature: Due to high altitude, temptations on Acatenango can drop significantly, especially during the night.  Hikers should be prepared for cold conditions and possibly sub-zero temperatures at the summit.
• Cost: 100Q entrance fee + the cost of your tour.
• Views: Despite the challenging ascent, the panoramic views from Acatenango’s summit are breathtaking.  Hikers are rewarded with sweeping vistas of neighboring volcanoes, actively spewing Feugo and the surrounding landscapes of Guatemala.

Best Time to go Hiking Acatenango Volcano

The best time to go hiking Acatenango Volcano to witness the eruptions of neighboring Volcán de Fuego is generally during the dry season in Guatemala .  The dry season typically spans from late November to early April.

Within this period, the months of December to February are considered particularly favorable for hiking due to clearer skies and more stable weather conditions.  Hiking Acatenango during the dry season provides better visibility, enhancing the chances of witnessing the volcanic activity of Fuego.

It’s crucial to note that while the dry season is generally more favorable, weather conditions can vary and it’s essential to be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations.

Guided Tour or Go at it Independently

If you want to see Fuego erupt, it’s best to be seen at night as you can’t see the lava from Fuego during the day, only smoke.  Therefore you will want to join a guided tour to experience this.

It is possible to hike Acatenango independently but only up and back in one day.  Camping on Acatenango independently is only possible if you camp inside the cone of Acatenango itself but that does not give you views of Fuego erupting.  Each company has a dedicated base camps that give great views of Fuego so it’s best to go on a tour.

My Experience Hiking Acatenango Volcano

My experience hiking Acatenango Volcano wasn’t the most pleasant.  Don’t get me wrong, watching Fuego Volcano erupt all night long was truly magically but the experience on the tour wasn’t so great.

Unless of course you enjoy being shuffled up and down the mountain like cattle and stuffed in a tent with strangers like sardines.  Don’t worry, I’m here to let you know about my experience so you can avoid it and have the best time possible.

The tour we booked was from a local tour operator.  If you book through your hostel or hotel, most of the time this means they will place you in a tour group that has open spaces.  Or just put you on a tour regardless of the space.  This is what happened to us, therefore I would not recommend this .

The day did not start off on the most positive foot.   After waiting in the sun for almost an hour (yes they were apparently on Guatemalan time), we boarded the overcrowded bus at 9:36am.   They told us to be out front of our hotel at 8:45am.

We booked this tour the night before at around 430pm.   The man selling us the tour said that including us, there was only 10 people in the tour.   On the bus I counted 22.

Next, they stopped on a back street where a couple different men got on the bus and handed out beanies, jackets and bags if you needed them.   This of course cost extra.  

Joe and I were prepared with the gear so we did not have to rent any but others on the bus did and they didn’t seem to care about sizes or fit or anything.   The guy sitting next to me couldn’t even get his gloves onto his hand. – Red flag number 3.

They then proceeded to hand out our lunch & dinner.   The meals were packed in bulky, awkward tupperware containers which we are now suppose to carry.   They specifically told us when we booked that we did NOT have to carry our food, just our water. – Red flag number 4.

Next, they insisted that we pay.   Pay our entrance fee of 100Q and the extra 200Q to hike Feugo.  The entrance fee I was aware of.   The extra 200 for Feugo we were told that we could decide at the top of Acatenango and pay our guide then.

We ended up not paying right away as we wanted to make a decision at the top depending on visibility etc.   They did not seem very happy that we refused to pay then and there.

Might I add that, there was no office, no structure, everything was extremely disorganized and from my perspective it seemed like all they wanted was our money.

Finally at 10:37 the bus started driving.  We arrived at the Acatenango trailhead at 11:23.  We didn’t start hiking til 11:45.   By this time there were about 40 or more people hiking together in our group.

What I’d do Differently

In theory, all of the tours will provide the same basic necessities – shelter, sleeping gear, food, cold weather gear for rent and a guide.  The quality of those necessities is what will set the tours apart from one another.

If I were to do this again, I of course would book a tour with a reputable tour company that caters to smaller groups and has a bilingual guide.  This will give you a better connection with your guide and your trek mates.

Honestly, I’m kind of embarrassed that I didn’t do a tad more research, aka read more blogs about hiking Acatenango Volcano on an overnight hike.  If I would have read a blog like this one, I could have avoided some unpleasantries.

Learn from my mistakes and book one of the tour companies below.  You can thank me in the comments 🙂.

Volcan Acatenango Tour Companies Recommendations

After our Acatenango adventure, I did some digging and asking around.  These are the companies that I would recommend booking with.

Wicho & Charlies – Organized, professional and patient.  Bilingual guides.  Accommodations are huts not tents, and you’ll get a pillow and blanket.  You can even book a private hut and/or rent a porter if you need help carrying your bag.

OX Expeditions – They pride themselves on being the most professional tour operator in Antigua, Guatemala.  They also give back to the community and are eco-friendly.

Trek Guatemala  – Can book a private tour if desired.  Food is better than most.

Old Town Outfitters – One of the oldest tour operators in the country.

What to Expect when Hiking Acatenango Volcano

Is it difficult.

An overly dramatic yes!    I love to hike and I’m no stranger to intense hikes, the Acatenango hike was very, very difficult.  Don’t let this deter you though, anyone in average shape and the desire to adventure will be able to complete this hike.

Hiking to Base Camp

Hiking up to base camp was a doozy.  It’s 4.5 miles with an elevation gain of about 3,500 feet to base camp.  Without exaggeration, the first 3 hours of the hike were straight uphill.  No flat land to decompress on or catch your breath.  Three hours of straight up with heavy packs. ← More on this later.

The trail begins on fertile agricultural fields, where local farmers are actively at work.  About a mile up, theres even a restaurant where you can buy sandwiches, smoothies and what not.

Next you’ll enter an old-growth tropical cloud forest.  Think lots of flora and fauna as well as shade.  The slope is also pretty steep but there are a few places to stop and buy a drink (even beer) along the way.

About two hours in you will break for lunch.  Then you’ll enter a high-alpine forest which quickly opens up to views of neighboring volcanos.  This is where you start to really get excited, just try not to think of the pain.

At last, you’ll make the final push of the day to base camp and climb above the tree line.  This is where the wind will pick up and the terrain will feel more like a volcano.

Now, you can give yourself a pat on the back because you hiked a hell of a day.  Basecamp sits at about 12,000 feet, you earned that hot chocolate.  It’s not over yet though.

Hike to Volcan Fuego

Once you’ve had a rest, there’s an optional hike along la horqueta to Volcan Fuego.  This gets you up close and personal with the fiery beauty.  The hike to get closer to Fuego is 1.5 hours down and 2.5 hours back to basecamp.

You’ll be hiking in the dark so a headlamp is a must.  Hiking Fuego is an additional cost of 200Q (about $25).

I personally did not go on this hike.  Since we had such a large group it took 5 and a half hours to make it to base camp.  We arrived just at sunset and thankfully basecamp offered sweeping views of the Antigua Valley and Volcan Fuego.

Others in our group that did go on the additional Fuego hike didn’t get back to base camp til after 10pm, which meant that they didn’t get to eat dinner until 10:30pm.  I was happy with my choice of not going.  That being said, I’m sure the closer views of Fuego were absolutely amazing!  Dress warm!

Hiking to the Summit of Acatenango for Sunrise

Another additional hike will start early in the morning about 4am.  This will take you to the summit of Acatenango, which is the third highest volcano in Central America.

The climb is much steeper than climber Volcan Fuego and only takes 45 minutes to summit.  At the summit you will have 360-degree views of the sunset and surrounding Guatemalan highlands.

This additional Acatenango hike has no additional cost.  Sunset from basecamp was pretty rad too.  Joe and I opted out of this hike as well and instead made ourselves some hot chocolate and huddled outside on some chairs with our sleeping bags to watch Fuego work her magic.

I’m glad we stayed at camp and posted up outside as we got some of our best shots just before and during sunrise.  People in my group who hiked for sunset said it was very, very cold and thought that it would have been comparable to staying at camp.

Food on the Volcano Acatenango Hike

The food on the Volcano Acatenango hike was nothing to write home about.  I’m not going to lie, I was rather annoyed that we had to carry our own food up only because we were told that we would not need to carry our food.

The food was packed in awkward tupperware that our bags couldn’t really fit.  If we would have known beforehand that we would have to do this, then we would have packed a bit differently to accommodate the bulky items.

Okay, rant over.  Lunch consisted of a chicken salad, rice and a small roll.  Dinner was spaghetti noodles.  We also got a package of hot chocolate mix which I enjoyed very much in the wee hours of the morning.

Bringing extra snacks is always a good idea.  We packed some snicker bars and a few pastries that we were stoked to have at various points throughout our adventure.

Accommodations on the Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike

Most if not all of the campsites will look directly over Fuego Volcano.  I know this because we flew the drone at sunrise and saw dozens of camps above and below us.

Our campsite composed of tents that had 6 sleeping bags inside each tent on top of a cushion.  Unless you’re hiking with 5 of your fellow friends, you’ll be sharing your accommodations with strangers you just met on the hike.

And quarters are tight.  Thankfully, Joe and I were able to hop in a tent that only had 5 sleeping bags so we had more room than most.

Either way, sleeping isn’t really the priority on this adventure.  If you’re anything like me, you’ll spend your evening and night gasping at volcanic eruptions and staring up at a sky full of stars.  It’s truly an unforgettable experience.

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Acatenango Trek Itinerary

Below I’ll list the itinerary that was sold to us although that was not the time frame of my trek.  We didn’t start hiking til about 11:45 and didn’t arrive to basecamp til a little after 5pm.  Larger groups = longer wait times for everyone to catch up.

• 9am pick up from your hotel in Antigua.
• 1.5 hour bus ride (windy, bumpy roads) to the start of the hike at La Soledad
• 11am begin Volcano Acatenango hike
• 1pm lunch break
• 3pm arrive at base camp
• 4pm start hike to Fuego
• 730-8ish return to base camp, dinner and hot chocolate by the fire.
• 4am wake up call for Acatenango summit sunrise hike
• 5:45am sunrise
• 6:30am light breakfast at base camp & pack up your things
• 7:30am start decent to La Soledad
• 12pm arrive back in Antigua

What to Wear for Hiking Acatenango Volcano

You’ll want to pack warm layers for hiking Acatenango Volcano.  It gets very cold at the summit especially once the sun goes down.  I hiked Volcan Acatenango during December which is one of the coldest months in Guatemala.

I hiked in pants, tank top and lighter long sleeve top for most of the hike.  During every break, I’d have to put on my jacket but once we started making our way up again the layers would come off.

I would definitely bring another warm top, extra socks, gloves, beanie and puffy jacket for hanging around base camp.  Don’t worry, if you don’t have any of these items you can rent most of the gear with your tour operator.

Sturdy shoes are a must.  I travel with my Danner 600 Hiking Boots and I love them.  I saw a lot of people hiking in trainers though, it will be tougher going down than going up.

If you plan on wearing trainers, then hiking poles would be necessary.  You can more than likely rent poles with your tour operator or from a rental shop in Antigua.  You can also rent a stick for 10Q at the base of the hike where the collectivos drop you off.

What to Pack for the Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike

Here’s a list of what I recommend to bring:

• 3L of water
• Buff – it gets dusty
• Beanie or Head Warmer
• Toiletries – Sunscreen , Toothbrush , Toothpaste & a few face wipes.
• Clothes – Change of underwear, extra socks, sweatshirt for sleeping
• Extra Snacks
• GoPro /Camera
• External Battery
• Bring your own toilet paper!

Cost of Hiking Acatenango Volcano on an Overnight Trek

You definitely get what you pay for.  Hiking Acatenango Volcano on an overnight trek will cost anywhere from $75 for the bare minimum to $250 for a private tour and digs.

Obviously, nicer the amenities the more expensive it will be.  Here are some other costs to consider.

• Park entrance fee: Q100 ($14 USD)
• Rental equipment: Depending on what you need, you’ll have to pay extra for rental equipment that isn’t covered in the cost of the tour. Each piece of equipment, from gloves, beanies, trekking bags, hiking poles, jackets etc, will cost around Q10 and up.
• Porters: Hiring a porter for the hike up costs Q200, or Q250 if you have a heavy bag.
• Food: Food was included but you’ll want to bring extra snacks.  We paid $2 per snicker bar (4 bars total) and it was worth every penny.
• Extra Fuego hike: 200Q extra to hike to Volcan Fuego.

Tips for Hiking Acatenango Volcano

• You may experience altitude sickness.  Try to spend a few days in Antigua before attempting this hike to acclimate.
• Pack light!
• It is possible to hire a porter to carry your bag up the mountain, check with your tour company before hand.
• If you get hurt or can’t imagine hiking back down the volcano you can pay $150 per person to get down the mountain by truck.
• Bring extra quetzal for the entrance fee, Fuego hike and snacks along the way.
• Get an eSIM for your phone to stay connected with a local high-speed data network while you travel.
• Don’t forget to BYOTP – Bring your own toilet paper.

Hiking Acatenango Volcano Vlog

Would you rather see for yourself what an adventure up Acatenango Volcano looks like?  We filmed a vlog of our experience hiking Acatenango Volcano on an overnight trek to see Fuego erupting.

Check it out after you read this post and please subscribe or give us a thumbs up.  It doesn’t cost you anything and really helps us be able to continue creating free content for you to enjoy 🙂.

🎥 Watch our Guatemala Series on YouTube

Other Noteworthy Hikes to Add to Your Bucket List

Looking for more worldwide trekking adventures?  I have only just started to properly document all of my hiking/trekking excursions.  Below are a few hikes that stand out from the rest.

Salkantay Trek – 46 miles in completion that takes you through rugged mountain terrain and connects Cusco to Machu Picchu.  The maximum elevation of this trek is at 15,090 feet at the Salkantay Pass.

Colca Canyon – Offers trekkers a chance to spot soaring condors, stay in an oasis on the canyon floor, witness some of Peru’s most beautiful landscapes, bathe in thermal hot springs and hike through desert scenery.

Valbona to Theth Trek – An adventure through the Albanian Alps hiking connecting Valbona and Theth National Park.

Haleakala Volcano – Hiking into the world’s largest dormant volcano on Maui, staying the night in a cabin and hiking out another route.

Rysy Peak – Hiking to Poland’s highest peak starting in Slovakia.

Final Thoughts on Hiking Acatenango Volcano

Lastly, if there’s anything I missed that you think would be beneficial to future hikers, let me know in the comments below.   I try to keep my guides as up-to-date as possible, so share your experiences and any useful information that could help out your fellow travelers.  

If you are planning your trip to Guatemala, I spent 7 weeks traveling around this beautiful country so check out the travel guides below 👇.

 More Guatemala Travel Guides ↓

Best Day Trips from Guatemala City 

Exploring the Chichicastenango Market

Best Things to do in Flores (Besides Tikal)

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 Our top-notch base camp in Acatenango, equipped with professional camping gear, promises a comfortable and unforgettable experience.

Spend the night in a high-end canvas tent, complete with the most comfortable camping mattresses, pillows, organic cotton, merino blankets, and more . Plus we have clean and new green luxury bathrooms in site!

T ake in the mesmerizing views of Fuego volcano erupting at night, stay warm and cozy with our wood stove inside the tent and relax in comfort with our stylish chairs and lights.

Our goal is to provide you with the best possible outdoor adventure . Let us take care of all the details while you focus on enjoying the adventure . Book your trip with us today and prepare for an unforgettable experience! ​

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We provide only top-quality, professional camping gear to ensure your safety and comfort throughout your Acatenango adventure. (see included gear in each tour description)

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Had an absolute blast going up acatenango volcano with  @nomabasecamp  ◇. From the very first moment we met up to start our adventure to hiking up Fuego Volcano for sunset and up Acatenango for sunrise. The meals where amazing, the basecamp is extremely comfortable, and it is the perfect spot to enjoy one of the best experiences Guatemala has to offer. The 4x4 ride is superfun with their very experienced drivers. I cannot wait to go back, certainly being this close to pachamama's power is a spiritual experience. 

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Hiking Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala: What to Know + Insider Tips

Home » Blog » Guatemala » Hiking Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala: What to Know + Insider Tips

Hiking Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala is on many travelers’ bucket lists for good reason. The trek involves an overnight stay and the opportunity to see an active volcano erupt up close. This guide walks you through how to prepare and what to expect on your Acatenango hike.  

Did you know that Guatemala is a country with 37 named volcanoes ? And three of them —Pacaya, Fuego, and Santiaguito— are still active , attracting visitors from near and far to witness their power and beauty up close.

One of the best (and most popular) ways to do so is by hiking Acatenango Volcano and spending the night on the dormant stratovolcano adjacent to Fuego Volcano, which is predictably active . 

And when we say predictably, we mean it — Fuego erupts every 15 to 20 minutes! Yep, you read that right! This means travelers that are up for the adventure can pretty much be guaranteed to see this volcano erupt several times (barring incredibly cloudy weather). 

We’d heard for years that watching Fuego Volcano erupt was one of the top things to do in all of Central America , and we were not disappointed. Hiking Acatenango Volcano was one of our favorite things we did in Guatemala and was a highlight of our 3-month Central America trip.

Acatenango Hike Guide

• How does it work?
• Acatenango hike at a glance
• Best time to do the Acatenango hike

Is hiking Acatenango Volcano safe?

• Best tour companies for the hike
• What to expect on the hike
• Trek itinerary
• What to wear for the hike
• What to pack for the hike
• Tips for hiking Acatenango
• How much does it cost?

So, how does it work?

We were a bit confused at first as to how to witness this volcanic eruption. Plus, we didn’t understand why people kept talking about Volcano Acatenango… wasn’t it Fuego that erupts? And also, how would we know we’d be safe? 

Don’t worry — we’ll explain…

Here’s the skinny:

• Volcan Fuego (as it’s known in Spanish) erupts very frequently and consistently.
• In order to view these eruptions, you will hike up the adjacent volcano, Acatenango.
• Acatenango is dormant, and the last eruption was in 1972.

You can do the Acatenango hike as a day trip, but the best and most popular way to view Fuego’s famous eruptions is to stay overnight.

• There are many tour companies that offer overnight treks to spend the night in their “base camp” on Acatenango where you’ll have incredible views of lava-spewing Fuego erupting all night long.

Acatenango hike stats

• Elevation at summit: 13,044 feet (3,976 meters)
• Elevation gain: 5,253 feet (1,600 meters)
• Type of hike: Out and back
• Distance covered: 8.6 miles (13.8 km) + an optional hike to Volcan Fuego (explained later)
• Acatenango hike difficulty: Difficult
• Cost: There is a park entrance fee of Q110, plus the cost of your tour
• Crime: Since they started charging an entrance fee, crime on Acatenango has gone down and it is now considered a safe hike.
• Current Status of Volcan Acatenango: Dormant
• Highlights: Volcano Acatenango is known for its above-the-cloud views and proximity to Volcano Fuego, one of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala.
• Time needed: While it is possible to do this difficult trek in one day, it is recommended to do an overnight trek. You won’t want to miss the nighttime views of Fuego Volcano spewing lava (it’s most active at night!) or the sunrise views from Acatenango’s summit. 

Best time to visit for the Acatenango hike

The ideal time would be to plan your hike to fall within Guatemala’s dry season, November – April.  

That gives the best chance at optimal weather, although the conditions are still not guaranteed and you never know what kind of weather you’ll run into when you reach the summit.

Yes. Most of the time.

Volcan Fuego is just about 3 km (1.8 miles) from Acatenango, so theoretically, you are pretty far away from the eruptions when you’re at base camp. There is an option to actually hike to Volcan Fuego, in which case you’ll be closer (more on that below!).

For the vast majority of hikers, there are no issues or threats of danger as the regular eruptions are very small. However, volcanoes by nature are unpredictable .

A few weeks after our own Acatenango hike, there was a massive eruption (on June 3, 2018) that killed at least 69 people, most of whom were locals living in the village just below the volcano. 

A few weeks later, we met a traveler who had been hiking Acatenango on that day. He said that everyone had to run down the mountain as ash filled the sky. He ended up staying in the area for a couple of weeks to help with the clean-up of this tragic natural disaster.

We don’t bring this up to scare you because you are far more likely to have an incredible time and encounter no issues at all. However, any volcano hike does come with some inherent risk.

Best tour companies for the Acatenango Volcano overnight hike

In Antigua, you won’t have to walk far to see signs for this hike. Oftentimes your hostel or hotel will offer to make your Acatenango hike arrangements for you.

Much of the time this means they will place you in a tour group that has open spaces. This is what happened to us, and we would not recommend this .

Our experience hiking Acatenango Volcano

We had no idea what company we were going with and therefore didn’t have control over the quality of service. The experience was still incredible — I mean, witnessing a volcano erupt all night long is something out of a dream — but there was a lot of room for improvement in the tour company itself.

For one, our guides didn’t give us much of any information on anything — not on the schedule, the volcano, nothing! 

Additionally, the food was pretty meager and the company didn’t have enough sleeping gear. We were assigned tents but were squished in there like sardines and not everyone had sleeping bags. 

Luckily, we spent most of the night watching the eruptions, but it felt like this particular company just tried to take as many people as they could without really having the proper equipment.

So, learn from our mistakes and actually choose the company you want to go with instead of having your guesthouse arrange it for you .

Tour operator recommendations

In theory, the tour operators provide most of the same things for the Acatenango overnight hike: sleeping gear, guides, and food. The quality of these things will vary quite a bit, as we’ve already described.

If you’re looking for tour company recommendations, we’ve got two:

OX Expeditions

We have heard consistently good things about OX Expeditions . They’ve been in operation since 2004 and are widely known as Guatemala’s top guiding service .

They also have some impressive environmental initiatives , and some of their profits support community projects that educate local children. They have some pretty cool programs where they teach them English, eco practices, as well as guiding skills to open up opportunities for them in the future.

Wicho & Charlie’s

Our Editor, Amanda, was in Guatemala in March 2021 and did the Acatenango overnight hike with Wicho & Charlie’s and had a very good experience. One of the main benefits of going with this company is they are the only company that has sleeping huts instead of tents at basecamp. (You can compare our tent photo with Amanda’s much more luxurious hut photo!)

When we heard this, we asked her:

“ Wait, you mean you weren’t squashed like sardines into a tent, fighting over sleeping bags? Tell me more… ”

So we’ll let Amanda take over from here and give us a front-row seat to her experience hiking Acatenango!

Amanda’s experience on the Acatenango Volcano hike

For starters, we were still squashed in like sardines, just in a slightly more comfortable and arranged sleeping situation inside huts.

Wicho & Charlie’s has a number of different huts at basecamp on Acatenango. The larger huts are shared space with room for 4, 6 and 8 people, and there are a couple smaller huts for just 2 people (you can splurge for the private hut for two if you prefer). The beds are adequate, but calling them “comfortable” might be a stretch, depending on your definition of comfort.

They are more or less just sleeping cushions arranged on the wooden bunks in each hut. Each person gets a sleeping bag and 2 large wool blankets. However, there are no pillows, so you may wind up using your pack or one of your blankets as a pillow.

The real benefit of the huts is not having to set them up or take them down like you would a tent. And they add a layer of protection if in the unlikely event the neighboring Volcan Fuego has an uncharacteristically large eruption and spews debris as far as base camp, the huts would be safe and keep you protected.

Other than that, I chose to go with Wicho & Charlie’s because the company came highly recommended by fellow travelers and offered everything we needed to make our Acatenango hike as smooth as possible.

The guides were knowledgeable and spoke great English, the food – albeit simple – was good and kept us plenty full, and they had everything we needed available to rent directly from their shop including water bottles, warm clothing, hiking poles and porters.

What to expect on the Acatenango hike

The Volcan Acatenango hike is a challenging 3,976m (just over 13,000 feet!) hike , but can be achieved by someone with an average level of fitness and the will for adventure!

There are a few portions of the hike we’re going to go over:

• Hike to Base Camp
• Hike to Volcan Fuego for sunset (optional)
• Hike to Acatenango summit for sunrise (optional)

Hike to Acatenango Base Camp

The hike up to basecamp will take anywhere from about 3.5 to 6.5 hours depending on your pace . 

Most of the hike should have fairly mild temperatures (in the low 70° F range – weather dependent) and you’ll be fine with hiking pants or shorts and a t-shirt with an extra top layer . 

It’s also highly recommended to bring hiking poles as these will help you navigate the soft earth of the volcano, especially on the way down! 

You’ll be required to carry all of your personal items, including warm clothes for the night and toiletries, plus your own water. 

There are no water fill stations on the volcano so you’ll want to carry the recommended 4 liters with you from the start. (A hydration pack, like a Camelbak, makes it easier to carry water on a trek like this.)

Note: Many tour companies offer porters to help carry your belongings. You can also hire a porter at the start of the hike. Porters are available at an extra cost of Q200 one-way for a 10-kilo bag (you’ll pay Q250 for an overweight bag), and Q200 for the way down. 

There is a small shop at the park entrance, which is about 30 minutes or so into your journey that sells water, sports drinks and snacks. At this point, you’ll be required to register your hike and pay the park entrance fee of Q110 . 

The rest of the hike is made less challenging with frequent planned rest stops, including a lunch break.

You’ll arrive at basecamp by mid-late afternoon and get settled in. Be prepared to notice a little altitude sickness. Some effects of high altitude include a headache, dizziness or shortness of breath. As long as you drink enough water, you should be fine, but everyone reacts differently so it’s good to be prepared. 

And this isn’t the end of the hike (unless you want it to be!)…

Hiking Volcan Fuego

If you’re feeling up for the challenge—weather and visibility permitting—you can make the additional trek to summit Volcan Fuego for sunset . 

The additional hike may cost extra depending on your tour company (mine was an additional Q200 / around $26), but it was totally worth it! 

Though this was easily the most challenging part of my trek, both physically and mentally , I would highly recommend you make the effort if you’re not feeling too depleted from the accent to basecamp.  

The hike will take about 1.5 hours to go down Acatenango and up Fuego . Then it’ll take about 2.5 hours to make it back to basecamp at the top of Acatenango, most of which you’ll be hiking in the dark so a headlamp is absolutely necessary. 

You’ll begin the hike by descending Volcan Acatenango (on the opposite side you hiked up) in very loose volcanic dirt. This is where your hiking poles will really come in handy as well as a Buff or face covering to keep the dust out of your lungs. 

You’ll also want to make sure you bring all the warm layers you have on this part of the hike. The top of Fuego is the coldest part of the entire overnight journey.  

Once you reach the valley between the two volcanos, you’ll start the ascent to the top of Fuego. Since this is very much an active volcano, you’ll be climbing to the ridge about 500m from the actual crater. Your tour company will provide you with extra gear such as helmets if necessary (it wasn’t at all necessary on our trip). 

The ridge can be extremely windy, so you’ll want to layer up just before you reach the top . But you’ll be rewarded with some of the most amazing sunset views I’ve ever witnessed. You’ll be so far above the cloud it’ll feel like you’re in an airplane. 

Stay for sunset and if you can weather the cold, just after dark you’ll start to see the lava erupting from Fuego’s crater up close and personal!  

After you make it back to basecamp, you’ll be rewarded with a warm fire and hot meal. My tour company made all the food we needed for our trip and we had a delicious meal of rice and curry prepared for us when we returned, plus hot chocolate around the bonfire.

Acatenango Summit Hike

The following morning after a cozy night sleeping under the stars (or in my case, a volcano-proof hut), you’ll have the option for one final hike before you make your descent back to civilization.

You can choose to climb to the summit of Volcan Acatenango from basecamp, to watch the sunrise. 

This additional hike is a quick one that takes just 45-minutes to reach the top , but it comes with a 4 a.m. wake up call!

After you watch the sun come up over the clouds (a truly magical experience!), it’ll take just about 20 minutes to climb back down to basecamp for a quick breakfast and pack up to hit the trail around 7:30 a.m.

Before doing an overnight hike, it can be helpful to know what to expect when it comes to food (especially if you have allergies or dietary restrictions).

As we already explained, our (Katie and Ben’s) experience with food on this hike was not the best…

It’s not like I was expecting a 5-course meal or anything special when it came to food. But dinner was Cup Noodles, and we each got a couple of marshmallows to roast on a fire and a pack of hot chocolate. 

Maybe Ben and I eat a lot, but we were pretty hungry all night because we had just done a pretty intense hike and hadn’t packed many snacks.

Amanda had a better food experience with the tour company she went with…

Wicho & Charlie’s provided lunch, dinner and breakfast.

• Lunch: The lunch was a portion of rice and curry and included an assortment of snacks such as granola bars, fruit and nuts, which was plenty to tide me over. I ate about half the lunch during our lunch stop and the other half when I reached basecamp. 
• Dinner: Dinner was a simple meal of rice and curry, but it was pretty delicious considering it was prepared on top of a volcano. We were offered as many portions as we preferred, but most people were satisfied with just a single bowl. There was also hot chocolate by the campfire afterwards.
• Breakfast: Coffee and tea was offered while our guides prepared a simple breakfast of instant oatmeal. While it wasn’t much, it was early and no one was particularly hungry. Plus we had left over snacks if needed on the hike down.

Our advice: No matter which company you choose to go with, it’s always a good idea to bring a few granola bars, dried fruit, nuts and chocolate to keep you energized!

Acatenango trek itinerary

If you decide to go with a tour company, your 2-day trek itinerary will look roughly like this (times are rough estimates and not exact!). 

• 8:00 a.m. meet at shop, 1.5 hour bus ride (windy, bumpy roads) to the start of the hike at La Soledad
• 10:00 a.m. begin hike
• 11:30 a.m. lunch break
• 2:00 p.m. arrive at base camp and relax
• 4:00 p.m. start hike to Fuego
• 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. return to base camp and have dinner & campfire

Day 2 

• 4:00 a.m. wake up call for Acatenango summit sunrise hike
• 5:45 a.m. sunrise
• 6:45 a.m. light breakfast at base camp
• 7:45 a.m start decent to La Soledad
• 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. arrive back in Antigua at the shop, gear rental returns

What to wear for hiking Acatenango Volcano

You’ll want to pack plenty of warm layers, especially if you plan to summit Volcan Fuego for sunset. And believe me when I say plenty, I mean all the warm layers you can manage!

Basecamp gets very cold at night (it can get down to the single digits — that’s -14° C at its coldest!) and the wind on top of Volcan Fuego will have your teeth chattering and your fingers (almost) too frozen to take photos. 

Good news! If you didn’t pack warm clothes for your Central American travels, no worries! You can rent everything you need from tour companies, outfitters or even some hostels in Antigua.

• The tour companies typically provide warm clothes for rent at a small additional fee. You can also rent through your hostel or hotel in Antigua. I recommend you get EVERYTHING you haven’t packed: wool socks , hiking pants/long underwear, outer layers and jackets, scarves, Buff , gloves, hats, headlamp , hiking poles
• Check your wool socks before you leave the shop – more than one of us found holes in our rented wool socks when we went to put them on at the top of the volcano. 
• Rent gear the day or few days before your hike, can leave it at the shop in a locker (must provide your own lock) or take it home with you.

Athletic shoes or sneakers are fine, but they will be absolutely covered in dirt. You’ll want shoes you can throw in the washer when you’re finished with the hike. If you decide to rent boots/shoes, keep in mind you may get blisters. 

• Budget Tip: You can rent a walking stick from the small stand at the base of the volcano. It costs just Q10 ($1.30 USD) and is super handy on the hike if you didn’t bring poles.

What to pack for your Acatenango hike

You’ll need to carry all your own supplies, including water. Here’s a list of the items we’d recommend bringing.

• Check with your tour company before your hike to see if they provide water, and if so, how much. The guides may also require each hiker to give them up to 1 liter of water to cook dinner and breakfast, so you’ll want to account for that too.
• Ask your tour company if they provide bottles. Wicho & Charlie’s gives hikers 1.5L bottles you can fill in their shop before your hike.
• You may also want to bring a bottle of Gatorade along to give an extra boost of sugar and electrolytes. 
• Bring plenty of snacks for the hike  
• Good to bring extra underwear/sports bras to change once you’ve gotten all sweaty
• No need to get fancy with your toiletries, just a toothbrush and toothpaste and face or baby wipes (your tour company may or may not provide these)
• Bring your own toilet paper!
• Always follow Leave No Trace principles !

Tips for hiking Acatenango Volcano

• Everything will be covered in dirt/dust, including your face. Bring or rent a Buff to protect your lungs from the dust.
• Another option to consider is to rent a porter backpack (made to carry all your belongings and water more comfortably).
• Warm up a rock by the fire and put it in the bottom of your sleeping bag to keep warm overnight. Genius!
• Be prepared for the altitude , 13,044 ft (3,976m), and spend a few days getting acclimated in Antigua before your trek. 
• The 1.5-hour bus ride from Antigua to the base of Volcan Acatenango is a bumpy and windy ride. Take motion sickness medication if you are prone to getting car sick. But, (and this is a really important but!) make sure not to take anything that will make you drowsy. You’ll need peak energy levels to tackle this hike!

How much does it cost to hike Acatenango?

The price of the overnight Acatenango trek varies depending on the tour company you go with and what is included in your tour. In total, I paid about $160 USD for my entire trek. Below are some costs you should consider when planning your hike.

• OX Expeditions is a flat all-inclusive rate for shared tents at $99
• Wicho & Charlie’s has a range of rates with and without food and shared or private huts from $120 – $170 per person.
• Park entrance fee: Q110 (about $15 USD)
• Rental equipment: Depending on what you need, you’ll have to pay extra for rental equipment that isn’t covered in the cost of the tour. Each piece of equipment, from socks to hiking poles, will cost around Q10-ish. I paid roughly Q150 (about $20 USD) for all my rental gear.
• Porters: Hiring a porter for the hike up costs Q200, or Q250 if you have a heavy bag. The way down is a flat Q200 fee. And don’t forget to tip on top of that!
• Food: Food was included in the cost of both the tours we experienced. But we also recommend bringing your own snacks.
• Cost of extra hikes: The additional Volcan Fuego hike costs an extra Q200 (about $25 USD).

Acatenango hike FAQs

Here are some quick answers to your most frequently asked questions about hiking Acatenango Volcano. 

How long is the hike up Acatenango volcano?

The hike up to basecamp on Acatenango will take anywhere from about 3.5 to 6.5 hours depending on your pace . 

Is the Acatenango hike hard?

How fit do you need to be to climb Acatenango?

While it is difficult, I went with a large group of about 20 people, most of whom were not regular hikers. A few people even said this was their first ever challenging hike. 

There is no race to the top, so if you are willing to persevere, you can make it all the way there at a slow and steady pace with plenty of rests. 

Do I need hiking shoes for Acatenango?

Can you hike Acatenango volcano in one day?

Can you hike acatenango by yourself.

While it is possible to do the Acatenango hike on your own without a tour group, we wouldn’t recommend it. 

Only very experienced hikers with the proper gear should attempt. We’d recommend downloading the offline trail map on Alltrails + before you go. And make sure you are carrying the proper equipment and 4L of water per person.  

Can you do an Acatenango tour from Lake Atitlan?

If you are staying at Lake Atitlan, the ride to the trailhead will be about 2 hours from the eastern part of the lake (meaning if you are staying in San Pedro or San Marcos, you’ll need to ferry across the lake first).  

Likewise if you are coming from Guatemala City, you’ll have to add 30 minutes to your travel time (traffic dependant). 

In my experience all of the tour companies for the Acatenango volcano hike were operating out of Antigua as it’s the closest tourist destination to the volcano. 

Other epic hikes to add to your bucket list

If you’re reading this article, I imagine you’re a hiking enthusiast. We’ve done some pretty epic hikes around the world and have created helpful guides…

• Inca Trail :  This classic trek in Peru is worthy of a top spot on your hiking bucket list.
• Tongariro Crossing, New Zealand :  Widely considered to be the best day hike in New Zealand, this is a can’t-miss if you’re visiting the North Island. 
• Routeburn Track, New Zealand:  If you’re traveling in New Zealand, you’ll want to add this hike to your list as well. This multi-day trek on the South Island is one of the best hikes in the country.
• Fimmvorduhals Hike, Iceland:  This is one of our very favorite day hikes ever, and if you like the Tongariro Crossing, this should also be on your list!
• Old Man of Storr, Scotland:  This hike on the Isle of Skye brings you up close to some otherworldly rock formations.
• Kumano Kodo, Japan:   This multi-day pilgrimage trek in Japan is a perfect blend of adventure, nature and culture.
• Ijen Crater, Indonesia:  This classic sunrise hike in East Java ends with epic views over a neon blue crater lake.
• Everest Base Camp :  If you’re looking for a hike you’ll be telling your grandkids about, this is it! Stay at tea houses along the way and make lifelong friends.

Are you planning a trip to Guatemala?

We have lots more resources on travel in Guatemala and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Guatemala Travel Guide  for all the important travel information, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Incredible Things to Do in Guatemala
• Top Things to do in Antigua, Guatemala
• Best Things to do around Lake Atitlan
• Guide to Visiting Semuc Champey

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Are you planning on hiking Acatenango Volcano and still have questions? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to find answers for you!

Comments (4) on “ Hiking Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala: What to Know + Insider Tips ”

Loved this post! I’m planning to hike Acatenango in the next few months and this provided me with some great tips and insights. Definitely going to splurge on a guide and make sure to bring layers for the cold temperatures at the top. Thanks for sharing your experience! 😊

Great post! I’m excited to tackle Acatenango Volcano this year. Any tips on how to properly acclimatize before the hike?

Thanks for the detailed summary! Can you say which tour company you ended up going with, so we know which to avoid lol?

I really want to do this hike!! Id be happy getting to base camp. I hiked the Grand Canyon two years ago. Going down trashed my legs. But I did decently coming up. I don’t consider myself a hiker. But I do consider myself in decent shape and I plan on doing my best to prepare for the physical part of the hike. So question to you, what is the success/failure rate of people tackling this hike? I’m also 67 years old. I’d get a porter.

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Acatenango Volcano Tour With Overnight From Antigua

At over 13,000 feet above sea level, Acatenango Volcano stands as one of Guatemala’s most iconic peaks. It offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the power of nature up close. As travelers ascend the rugged terrain, they are greeted by panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment that words cannot describe.

But what truly sets this tour apart is not just the destination itself. The immersive experience awaits those brave enough to embark on this overnight adventure.

• Larger group sizes than advertised can impact the hiking experience negatively.
• Weather conditions can affect visibility and overall enjoyment of the tour.
• Food options provided may be heavy and average-tasting, lighter alternatives suggested.
• Safety concerns include inadequate first aid resources and medical supplies for guides.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Antigua Cultural Walking Tour
• Antigua ATV Sunset Tour
• Classic Cultural Walking City Tour of Antigua Guatemala
• Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop in ChocoMuseo Antigua

Tour Inclusions and Itinerary Details

During the Acatenango Volcano tour from Antigua, participants can expect a comprehensive package that includes meals, gear rental , transportation , and the unique experience of camping overnight on the volcano. With gear rental provided, hikers can enjoy the expertise of professional guides throughout the journey.

The camping experience offers stunning volcano views , especially facing Fuego Volcano from the cabins at Base Camp. The day’s itinerary involves a hike to Base Camp with a stop at OX Expeditions, lasting around 14 hours. It’s important to note that the admission ticket isn’t included in the tour package.

This first points highlights the essential elements of the tour, ensuring travelers are well-prepared for the adventure ahead.

Cancellation Policy and Traveler Support

Travelers engaging in the Acatenango Volcano tour from Antigua can benefit from a clear and structured cancellation policy, as well as dedicated traveler support services.

Here are some key points regarding the cancellation policy and traveler support:

Refund Policies :

• Full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• No refund for cancellations less than 24 hours before the start time.
• Changes not accepted less than 24 hours before the start time.

Customer Service Support :

• Dedicated support for travelers needing assistance.
• Minimum number of travelers required with refund or rescheduling if the minimum isn’t met.

These policies ensure transparency and assistance for travelers, offering guidance on cancellations and necessary support throughout the tour.

Concerns and Recommendations for Improvement

With a larger group size than advertised, the Acatenango Volcano tour faced challenges that impacted the overall experience for participants. During the hike, the group consisted of 30 individuals rather than the advertised maximum of 12, affecting the dynamics of the excursion. This larger group size led to a less intimate experience and limited individualized attention from guides.

Plus, adverse weather conditions weren’t grounds for tour cancellation, but they significantly impacted visibility and overall enjoyment. To enhance the tour experience, it’s recommended to maintain smaller group sizes for a more personalized journey. On top of that, providing lighter and more convenient food options could improve satisfaction levels among participants.

Addressing safety concerns by ensuring guides have adequate first aid resources and medical supplies is crucial for the well-being of all individuals involved.

Considerations for Children and Pace

The Acatenango Volcano tour poses specific considerations for children’s participation and the pace of the journey, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. Parents should keep the following in mind:

Children’s Safety : The tour can be a challenging endeavor for children, so parents are advised to carefully assess their child’s physical abilities before deciding to participate.

Ascent Pace : The ascent pace is manageable for children, but it’s important to note that the descent can feel rushed. It’s recommended to slow down the descent to ensure a safer journey for the children.

Rest Breaks : Regular rest breaks should be incorporated into the journey to allow children to catch their breath and prevent exhaustion.

Encouragement and Support : Providing children with positive reinforcement and support throughout the hike can help boost their confidence and motivation.

Directions for Booking and Preparation

Upon embarking on the Acatenango Volcano tour, prospective participants can secure their spot and adequately prepare for the adventure by following these booking and preparation guidelines.

It is crucial to ensure booking confirmation and have the essential gear such as sturdy hiking boots, warm layers , rain gear , water , and snacks to have a safe and enjoyable experience on the Acatenango Volcano tour.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Carve Your Own Jade Piece in Antigua!
• Overnight Volcano Acatenango Hiking Adventure
• Lake Atitlan Day Tour From Antigua
• The Antigua Foodie Tour
• Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua
• Antigua ATV Coffee Tour

Common questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Recommendations for Participating in the Acatenango Volcano Tour?

Age restrictions are not specified; however, parents should consider children’s physical abilities due to the challenging nature of the tour. Recommended ages for a safer journey would likely be older children and adults.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Gear or Equipment for the Hike and Overnight Stay?

Participants can bring personal gear, but the tour includes free rental equipment like backpacks, headtorches , warm clothes , hot drinks , and wine. Consider packing essentials . Group accommodations are provided, and food options are available, although lighter alternatives are suggested.

Is There a Restroom or Bathroom Facility Available at the Base Camp or Along the Hiking Trail?

Restroom availability along the hiking trail and at the base camp is crucial for hikers’ comfort. Trail facilities like bathrooms enhance the overall experience, offering convenience during the journey. Adequate facilities contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable adventure.

Are There Any Wildlife Encounters or Sightings to Expect During the Hike and Stay on Acatenango Volcano?

During the hike and stay on Acatenango Volcano, travelers can expect wildlife encounters like colorful birds and small mammals. The journey offers breathtaking scenic views of lush landscapes and the neighboring Fuego Volcano, creating a memorable outdoor experience.

How Physically Demanding Is the Hike to Base Camp and What Level of Fitness Is Required for Participation?

The hike to base camp on Acatenango demands a moderate level of fitness. Trail conditions vary with rough terrain and steep inclines. Hiking experience is recommended. Participants should be prepared for a challenging but rewarding journey.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Hobbitenango, Altamira, and Cerro De La Cruz Tour From Antigua
• Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class
• Iximché Ruins and Antigua City Tour
• Walking Tour of the Wonders of La Antigua Guatemala
• Pacaya Volcano Overnight Tour From Antigua
• ANTIGUA Villages Tour
• Pacaya Volcano Sunset Tour From Antigua
• Street Food Tour Around Antigua
• Full-Day Lake Atitlan and Magic Towns From Antigua
• Antigua Bar Crawl
• Coffee and Gastronomic Bike Tour in Antigua

Experience the thrill of the Acatenango Volcano Tour With Overnight From Antigua for an unforgettable adventure. With expert guides, cozy accommodations , and breathtaking views , this excursion promises an exciting journey filled with unforgettable experiences.

From detailed itineraries to safety measures, this tour offers everything you need for a seamless and enjoyable trip.

Book now and embark on a journey to explore the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of Acatenango Volcano.

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Volcano Acatenango Tours

Overnight hikes.

Our Acatenango Volcano overnight expedition is the best plan to experience the volcano as it allows climbers to take in astonishing nightfall views of flowing lava. Although hard for even the most seasoned hiker, search no further than this hike to have the best that Guatemala has to offer to adrenaline-junkies and adventure-seekers.

Volcan Acatenango lies precisely next to Volcan Fuego, which in average erupts every fifteen minutes. It may be one of the hardest hikes of your life, but also one of the most unbelievable things you will ever see. You will be in disbelief as you watch the lava explode into the sky and rush down the sides of the neighboring Volcano de Fuego.