Acatenango 4x4 Natural Reserve Adventure
Q2,250 / US$300 per person
Acatenango Hike: Basic Experience
Ideal for budget travelers. Larger groups with local Spanish-speaking guides. A safe and authentic Acatenango experience focused on the essentials.
- Duration2 days
- Group35–50 people
- DifficultyChallenging
- DestinationAcatenango Volcano
About this tour
The Basic option is a great choice for travelers looking for the full Acatenango adventure at a more affordable price. You will hike with local Spanish-speaking guides and a larger group of 35 to 50 people, following the traditional route through La Soledad.
The hike to base camp is about 8–9 km and takes around 6 hours. You will spend the night at 3,600 m surrounded by incredible mountain views. Enjoy a warm dinner and hot drinks while watching the impressive eruptions of Fuego Volcano from a safe distance.
Early the next morning, you will make the final 90-minute hike to the summit of Acatenango (3,976 m) to enjoy spectacular 360° views and an unforgettable sunrise above the clouds.
The Basic option costs less because the park entrance is not included: you pay it separately (Q100 in cash). If you don’t have a headlamp or trekking poles, you can rent them for Q50 each, plus a Q100 deposit that is returned to you.
Altitude on the traditional route
- 2,400 m Trailhead
- 3,600 m Base camp
- 3,976 m Summit
Itinerary
Day 1: Pick-up and ascent to the volcano
- 7:30 AMCollect your breakfast sandwich and store your luggage at Zoola.
- 8:00 AMArrival at the meeting point. Collect meals, water and gear.
- 9:30 AMArrival at the volcano. Guide briefing.
- 10:30 AMStart of the hike.
- 4:00 PMArrival at base camp (3,600 m).
- 5:00 PMOptional hike to Fuego Volcano (approx. 4 hours).
Day 2: Summit, descent and return
- 4:00 AMSunrise hike to the summit (1 hour 30 minutes).
- 6:00 AMBreakfast, then begin the descent.
- 12:00 PMReturn to Antigua.
Schedules are approximate and subject to delays.
Optional extras
Optional hike to Fuego Volcano +approx. Q250
Starts around 5:00 PM (sunset), approx. 4 hours round trip plus time for photos
The Fuego extra hike is optional and has an additional cost of approximately Q250 per person, paid directly to the local guide in cash (not included in the tour price).
The hike starts around sunset and takes approximately 4 hours round trip (4–5 km), plus additional time for taking photos and observing eruptions. It reaches a ridge at about 3,675 m, around 500 m from Fuego’s crater. This is a physically demanding hike and cannot be done without a guide.
If, due to weather, safety conditions, or physical ability, the guide determines that a participant should not continue, this decision will be communicated and must be respected. If you are unable to complete the hike due to fatigue or physical limitations, you must return with a guide, as returning alone is not permitted. Any additional costs related to the guide or return logistics will be the participant’s responsibility.
Porter Q250–Q500
The porter service costs approximately Q250–Q500, depending on the weight of your backpack. As a reference, 25 lbs costs Q300, while 50–60 lbs may cost Q400–Q500.
The price is for one way only. If you want a porter for the way down as well, the same fee applies, depending on the backpack’s weight.
Included
- 4 meals per person, including a meal before departure
- 3 liters of water per person
- Hot drinks
- Jacket, hat and gloves
- Wood-and-metal cabins for up to 15 people
- Sleeping bag
- Local Spanish-speaking guide
- 1 guide for every 10 hikers
- Sunrise hike to the summit
- Free luggage storage at Zoola
- Round-trip transportation from Antigua Guatemala
Not included
- Park entrance fee: Q100 per person (cash)
- Headlamp: Q50 rental + Q100 refundable deposit
- Trekking poles: Q50 rental + Q100 refundable deposit
- Extra hike to Fuego Volcano
- Porter service
Meals
Regular
- Breakfast
- Sandwich with lettuce, avocado, tomato and omelet
- Lunch
- Chicken with rice
- Dinner
- Pasta with tomato sauce
- Breakfast
- Oatmeal
Vegetarian
Same as the regular menu, except:
- Lunch
- Vegetables with rice
Things to know
- Group size
- 35 to 50 people, with 1 guide for every 10 hikers.
- Guides
- Local Spanish-speaking guides. An excellent option if you or someone in your group speaks Spanish.
- Route
- Starting point: 2,400 m. About 8–9 km and 6 hours to base camp (3,600 m). Summit of Acatenango: 3,976 m, about 90 minutes from camp.
- Why it costs less
- The park entrance (Q100) is paid separately, and you only rent a headlamp or trekking poles if you don’t have them. Premium already includes the entrance, a headlamp and more services.
What to bring
- Cash
- 1 L extra water or electrolytes
- Toilet paper
- Wet wipes
- High-energy snacks
- Hiking shoes
- Warm clothing (layers)
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Power bank
- Optional drinks
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the hike?
It is a hike of moderate to high difficulty due to the altitude and duration. It is recommended for people in good physical condition who enjoy outdoor activities, but you don’t need to be a professional athlete.
Can I do the hike if it’s my first time hiking a volcano?
Yes, as long as you are in adequate physical condition and follow the guide’s instructions throughout the entire route.
Is the hike to Fuego Volcano mandatory?
No. The hike to Fuego Volcano is optional and has an additional cost that is paid directly at the camp.
Where do we sleep during the tour?
Participants sleep in a shared wood-and-metal cabin for up to 15 people at the base camp, designed to protect from the cold and wind.
How is the weather on Acatenango?
The weather is variable. During the day it can be mild, but in the afternoon and at night temperatures drop considerably, especially at the camp and the summit. There may be wind, intense cold, and occasionally rain, depending on the season.
Will it be very cold at night?
Yes. Nighttime temperatures can drop close to 0 °C, especially during the dry season. For this reason, the tour includes basic thermal gear such as a jacket, gloves, and a hat.
Do I need to bring my own camping gear?
No. The tour includes accommodation in an equipped cabin at the base camp. There is no need to bring a tent or a sleeping bag.
What kind of shoes should I wear?
Hiking boots or sneakers with good grip are recommended. Smooth-soled footwear or sandals are not recommended.
Is this tour safe?
Yes. The tour is conducted with experienced local guides, established routes, and constant monitoring of weather and volcanic conditions.
What happens if I feel sick due to altitude?
The guide is trained to assist in these situations and adjust the group’s pace if necessary. It is always important to report any discomfort.
Is the hike suitable during the rainy season?
Yes, the tour operates year-round, but during the rainy season the trail can be more slippery and the weather colder.
Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather is bad?
In case of extreme weather conditions, the operator may reschedule or modify the tour for safety reasons.
Photos
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Q400 per person + entrance fee