Guatemala’s Active Volcano Hike:  A Complete Guide for the Overnight Trek of Acatenango 2025

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ARE YOU EXCITED FOR A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME ADVENTURE OF HIKING THE ACTIVE VOLCANO, ACATENANGO, IN GUATEMALA?

As I’ve ventured into my early 30’s, I’d like to think I have accomplished some pretty epic things.  Many years later, I can still say that this is genuinely a remarkably unique experience unlike anything else: 

Hiking and summiting an active volcano in Guatemala at sunrise while watching the nearby volcano constantly erupt in the distance.

If you’re looking for my raw, personal experience detailing my Actenango climb, check out my detailed reflection post here.

Heidi (the author) on the hiking trail with a hiking backpack turning and pointing to an erupting volcano in the distance.
Hiking to the Acatenango base camp with Fuego erupting in the distance

I love physical activity and I’m a decent hiker.  Though this hike has its challenges (it gave me a run for my money), I would argue that it’s a much more manageable bucket-list-worthy experience for the average person.

Here’s a guide with everything to know and what to expect so YOU can safely and successfully complete this famous Guatemalan volcano hike.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH MY FAVORITE RESOURCES:

➡Best accommodation site: Booking.com
➡Book day tours here: Viator.com
➡Purchase travel insurance here: SafetyWing
➡Save hundreds on flights: Beginner credit card hacking

GUATEMALA’S OVERNIGHT VOLCANO HIKE:  ACATENANGO

Is it worth it to go to Guatemala for a volcano hike? YES!!! Sunrise summit view of the Fuego volcano in the distance.

You will feel physically accomplished (at any fitness level).  It IS a manageable hike (with a great tour company and patient tour guides).  And most certainly, you’ll see once-in-a-lifetime views of TWO volcanoes!

Whether you are traveling close by and have a few days to spare or you’re looking for more slow travel throughout Central America, Guatemala is a great bucket-list travel destination!

One hike – Two volcanoes!  Get ready for adventure in Guatemala!  Let’s go!!!

Landscape sunrise summit view. The vast landscape is the dark volcano crater of the Acatenango summit . Off in the distance there's clouds and the erupting Fuego volcano in the background.
At the summit of Acatenango with Fuego erupting and another volcano further in the distance

Below we will review:
–Volcano facts for safety–
–How to physically prepare and what to pack–
–When and where to go in Guatemala–
–Cost and picking the best tour company–
–The Fuego Volcano extension option–
& MORE!

What to expect

Whether you’re a beginner at hiking or you’re fairly well seasoned, consider this your thorough and resourceful guide on all things to prepare you for the overnight hike on the Acatenango volcano in Guatemala!

Clear view shot of Fuego erupting. There's some clouds in the distance and rocky foreground. There's smoke coming off of Fuego as well as some red lava flowing down the side.
Eruption of the Fuego volcano

Volcano Details

I’ll review a lot of details for the Acatenango volcano as well as the nearby, Fuego volcano in Guatemala. Below are quick facts, detailed explanations, and insights on how they impact your physical activity level, commitment, and safety.

To be clear:
ACATENANGO is the volcano you’ll be hiking and summiting at sunrise
&
FUEGO is the constantly erupting volcano nearby/optional extra hike

Optional Fuego hike? Many tour companies offer for participants to hike down part of Acatenango and hike up part of the way onto Fuego (technically you can claim you’ve hiked on two volcanoes). This is an OPTIONAL hike that typically incurs an additional cost. You should carefully consider your stamina and enjoyment level to decide if it’s right for you.

Let’s orient ourselves with the two volcanoes & hiking trails to get a visual:

Hiking trail map of Acatenango and Fuego volcanoes. There's a red trail from the bottom of Acatenango up to base camp (designated by a graphic image of a tent). There's a blue trail from base camp down and up onto Fuego. There's a yellow trail from base camp up to the summit of Acatenango (designated by a sun burst). There's a flame graphic image on the top of Fuego.

Now with this visual in mind, let’s talk elevation for each volcano…

Please also note the following elevation numbers: If you stay in Antigua, your acclimation altitude in that city will be about 1,545 meters (5,069 feet). 

(Note: Units of measurements in meters and feet below)

Acatenango volcano quick facts: Starting elevation: the volcano hike begins from La Soledad at 2,491 meters (8,173 feet). Base camp elevation: You'll sleep here at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). Summit elevation: Final height is 3,976 meters (13,045 feet). Elevation gain (#math): You'll climb 1,485 meters (4,872 feet). You'll then descend that total from the summit back to La Soledad. Active volcano status: Actenango IS an active volcano, though, it hasn't erupted in 40 years (last eruption was 1972). Don't worry - its activity level is constantly monitored.

HIKING SAFETY TIP:  Think Machu Picchu is high in the sky?
Machu Picchu has an elevation of 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) above sea level.  So, you’ll already be starting your hike at almost the same height. 

That’s what you’ll need to know for certain since Acatenango is the primary volcano hike.

If you want to learn more about the nearby Fuego volcano (for safety concerns and to help inform you on the optional hike extension), I’ll include more details below.

Fuego volcano quick facts. Starting elevation for your hike: Your Acatenango base camp at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). Final elevation for your hike: The closest Fuego viewpoint (it can vary by tour group and for safety). Elevation gain (#math): You have to go down Acatenango, up part of Fuego, and then reverse all of that hike to get back to base camp. Active volcano status: Fuego is one of the most active volcanoes in the world it is currently erupting constantly (at a low level) every 15-20 minutes. Larger eruptions are less frequent (every 4-5 years). The last major eruption was on June 3, 2018, and it sadly left over 200 casualties and many injured.
Learn more about the last eruption in 2018 by clicking here

So, those are the elevation numbers on where you start and how high you climb. 

But what do all of the numbers mean in terms of fitness, difficulty, and how long it will take to complete each section of the hike?

How many days is this volcano hike in Guatemala?

Short answer:  It’s 2 days and 1 night. 

You’ll see examples of a basic tour group itinerary below showing what to expect on the first and second day.

Sunrise view of Fuego. There's a dark foreground, lots of clouds, and a volcano mountaintop peeking out of the clouds in the distance. The sky is a pink and orange cloudy scene.
Sunrise on the summit of Acatenango with a view of the Fuego volcano

But, can it be done in one day?
Yes, it IS possible to do it in one day, but I’d recommend two days. 

Why? 

To do it in one day, you’ll need incredible stamina because it’s a physically grueling hike up AND down.  More significantly, you won’t get to really enjoy the views, multiple eruptions, and sunrise.

You don’t want to miss the BEST PARTS!!

Therefore, moving forward, I’ll talk about the overnight hike of Acatenango over the 2 days.

How long and difficult is the hike?

Let’s talk distance, number of hours you’ll be hiking, altitude, and how crazy steep this hike is!

(Note: Units of measurements in kilometers and miles below)

Length of hike distance and approximate time: Start: Trailhead to Acatenango base camp = 7km (4.3 miles) about 4-6 hours (including lunch). Optional: Fuego out-and-back from base camp - 4km (2.4 miles) about 4-5 hours . Sunrise: Base camp to summit = 1km (0.6 miles) about 1-1.5 hours. Descent: Summit to trailhead - 8km (4.9 miles) about 3 hours

To be clear, this hike is STEEP!  That means going up will be tiring and going back down will be difficult as well (tough on the knees). 

How steep, though? 

Three images. The image on the left shows hikers climbing a steep incline. The center image shows Heidi (the author) in a colorful tank top and hiking backpack with other hikers in the distance on the steep trail. The right image shows multiple hikers and the mountain trail in the distance.
It’s always tough to show the incline a hike from a photo

The incline varies from 20% to 30%, drops to 15% and 5%, then increases again before base camp.  When summiting, the incline is about 45-50%. 

These numbers mean it’s considered a “moderate” hike at best, but hiking the Acatenango volcano is typically seen as a “challenging” hike. 

The terrain is also loose lava rock which means each step up, you might slide back a little.  This might feel like covering half a step at a time, consuming a lot more energy.  Especially on the descent, I’d recommend a walking stick since it can be easy to slip a little and slide down.

Heidi (the author) on the trail posing with a walking stick. Heidi is wearing athletic leggings, colorful tank top, hiking backpack, and sunglasses on her head. The background has the trail and clouds in the distance.
I’ve never needed a walking stick before on a hike, but for this overnight volcano hike in Guatemala…it’s necessary!

In addition, since you’ll be at such a high elevation, the air will be a lot thinner (it will have less oxygen).  Your body needs oxygen when you’re exercising and if you have less oxygen, your body will have to work harder. 

This means you’ll feel more tired!

Have you ever been at a high altitude before? It’s no joke. I’m from New Jersey and that’s basically “sea level.” This was my second time at a significantly high altitude.

It’s important to acclimate to the high altitude so that factor does not exponentially increase the difficulty of this hike. Some people might even experience “altitude sickness” symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, headaches, etc. 

It’s recommended to be in Antigua, Guatemala for about 48 hours before starting your hike (especially if you have concerns around altitude sickness or aren’t coming from a place at a high altitude already). 

Heidi (the author) is bundled up in warm clothing and a hiking backpack. She's on the top of Acatenango posing with the erupting, Fuego in the distance.
At the peak of Acatenango on the morning of Day 2 with Fuego in the background

I have a personal anecdote below about how I didn’t realize the true elevation height until after I finished.  It was then after the hike that I realized how much the high altitude affected my hiking fitness. 

In sum, it IS a tough hike for the various reasons above, however if you take time to acclimate and you are patient with yourself while hiking, you can definitely do it! 

When I’m doing a long hike, I just remind myself “I’ve got all day.”

HIKING SAFETY TIP:  If you have never experienced any significant altitude changes, you MUST trust me when I say this will make your hiking experience more fatiguing….tenfold! 

When is the best time of year for this Guatemalan volcano hike?

Let’s talk temperature, visibility, and rain…

Landscape image. On the left side there are some hikers on the trail. Panning to the center and right-hand-side there's a lot of trees and clouds.
Hiking to base camp through the cloud forest

Dry season (November to April)
There is more stable weather, less rain, and less mist.  This means better visibility of the epic surroundings.  Especially if you do the Fuego extension (where you’ll have a limited amount of time being up close to Fuego), you’ll want to consider your visibility. 

For temperature, the upper parts of the volcano are cold all year round due to its high elevation.  It’ll be cold up at base camp and the summit, but it can range from 68°F during the day to below 32°F at night. Bring plenty of layers!

Wet season (May to October)
This time of year is obviously warmer, but if you’re visiting during the rainy season you’ll have to plan and adjust your expectations accordingly.  You’ll need rain proof gear and maybe dry bags for your backpack items. 

Also, given how steep the slope is, you might have a slightly harder time ascending and descending.  Lastly, if it’s raining or even cloudy, you might have fewer opportunities to see the incredible views of Fuego erupting. 

Even though it might be summer, don’t underestimate how cold it gets at night on the top of the mountain. The overnight temperatures can still range from 32°F to 50°F.

Therefore, the “best” time of year for the Acatenango volcano hike
(not too cold, not much rain, better visibility) = November!

Landscape colorful view of the Fuego volcano in the distance, a blue sky, and lots of trees.
Clear view of the Fuego volcano

I personally went in early November and the weather was fantastic.  It DID get cold at base camp and especially at the summit for the early morning sunrise.  Temperatures drop quite a bit when the sun goes down.

I’m also grateful that when I did the Fuego hike and we got to the viewpoint that we had great visibility. Thank goodness it wasn’t cloudy for those 20-30 minutes!

What to pack and what equipment is needed for your hike?

Here’s a breakdown on what items you will need and want for your overnight volcano hike in Guatemala.

Double check what the tour company might provide (what’s included and what is available to rent). 

Depending on your travel plans, luggage capacity, and what hiking equipment you already own, it might be a good idea to consider more heavily what items the tour company can lend for the two-day experience. 

Packing list. Double check what the tour company provides. What you need to pack: hiking boots (make sure they're worn in), tall hiking socks (so loose lava rock/gravel doesn't get in your shoes), comfortable, athletic clothes (ideally quick dry), extra warm clothes (don't underestimate how cold the mountain is up top), extra snacks (tour provides meals, but you'll want some snacks), headlamp (critical if you do the Fuego extension and sunrise hike), personal medications (since it's an overnight hike), portable charger (plus connector cord for your phone), extra water, sunscreen, sunglasses, toilet paper (store it in a Ziploc bag so it doesn't get wet), toothbrush and toothpaste, deoderant. What the tour company might provide. The tour companies should all provide: meals (lunch, dinner, and breakfast), water, overnight accommodation (tent, sleeping bag, and pillow). Some tour companies might also provide: warm clothes (extra pants, long sleeve jacket, winter hat, gloves), walking stick (if it's not included, please consider renting from Antigua somewhere or bringing your own hiking pole(s). it's critical for going downhill). Daypack/backpack. Option items: electrolyte tabs, extra set of clothes (for the 2nd day of hiking), separate clothes for sleeping at night (underneath the warmer layers), body wipes (just to feel a little cleaner at the end of the day before bed).

If you plan on hiking Fuego, bring extra, extra snacks! It’s recommended to add about 500 calories more for this supplemental hike. You’ll need the energy!

OVERALL TIPS: Consider what you need a tour company to include in the package or have available to rent. Pack an extra layer for warmth and be sure to use a walking stick!

Picking a Tour Company

You’ll want to do this Guatemala overnight volcano hike with a tour company.  You’re working hard and it’ll be SO worth the extra money to have all of the necessities (lodging, meals, etc.) taken care of for you.
YOU just focus on the challenge of the hike and enjoy the incredible views!

So how and when do you pick the best tour company? 
What experience do they provide?

Here are the factors you should consider:
Value for cost (accommodation quality, equipment, inclusions, & group size)
Cancellation policies
Customer reviews

Hiking trail showing a descent on a dirt staircase and wooden railing. Hikers are far away in the distance on the trail. There's a lot of small mounds of dirt and greenery on the sides. In the distance there's multiple green mountain slopes.
Descending stairs hiking back down from base camp

Value for cost: Accommodation quality, equipment, inclusions, & group size

Average cost – Sleeping in a tent (as low as $65) and private cabins ($120 for a bed in an 8-person cabin and $340 for 2 people in a 2-person cabin)

On top of that, the Acatenango park entrance fee is (usually) not included and guests will need to bring 110Q (about $14 USD).

The optional Fuego hike extension could be about 200Q ($25) on top of the above cost.

Accommodation quality – Ranges from individual/double tents in a shelter (like below), to comfort glamping, and structured cabins.

The fancier and more spacious the sleeping arrangements, the higher the cost. Some base camps might have a small building for a toilet, and some might have a small, tented area up and away on a hill nearby.

Green metal shack with an open door and hikers walking inside . There's a lot of fog in the distance.
Shelter with rows of tents inside (see below for the inside)

Equipment and other inclusions – Each tour company varies so be sure to read each website in detail. Below are items you might see included in the upfront cost or items/services available for rent.

  • Breakfast on Day 1 – If included, expect to get picked up earlier in the morning.
  • Fuego extension – Most tours offer this at an extra cost, but note that there’s no guarantee of a view of Fuego (you pay regardless).
  • Equipment/hiking gear – Hat, scarf, gloves, jacket, pants, headlamp, walking stick/trekking poles, backpack, and hiking shoes. Tour companies typically can’t guarantee sizes, though. (I wouldn’t recommend renting hiking shoes since you don’t want those to fit improperly).
  • Porter – Some companies offer the service to have your backpack carried (one-way or both-ways) and usually there’s a weight limit.
  • Transportation and guides – Transportation should always be included, but don’t forget to bring a tip for your guides!
  • Luggage storage – There might be a locker available at the tour company office where you can store extra belongings you won’t bring on your hike (this might be free of charge).
Three photos. The left photo shows a wooden sign saying Volan de Acatenango. The middle photo is a red trail map sign. It has information listed about the trail and shows the route and elevation numbers. The right-side photo shows a green tupperware container with lunch provided by the tour (chicken, roasted pumpkin, and some other side items).
Signage on the Acatenango trail and lunch provided by the tour company

THRIFTY TRAVEL HACK: To save money, avoid paying for accommodation in Antigua on the evening of your overnight hike. Consider storing your luggage (for free) at your hostel or with the tour company.

Group size – Private or smaller group tours will cost you more, always. Tour companies might indicate the average group size.

Unless you’re set on a private tour, opting for a larger group can be more convenient and budget-friendly. If you hike faster, you reach base camp sooner; if you’re slower, a larger group offers more variability and potential companions.

Cancellation policies

Since the enjoyability of this experience (the hike itself as well as the views) is dependent on the weather, you’ll want to consider the tour company’s policy as you get closer to your hiking date. Keep an eye on the weather as your excursion approaches.

Most companies need you to reach out a minimum of 24 hours in advance prior to your starting time in order to be eligible for a refund or requesting a date change. Be sure to review your tour company’s policy.

Customer reviews

When planning your overnight volcano hike in Guatemala, it’s crucial to review the tour company, check customer reviews, and consider your personal needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some of the top tour companies for scaling the Acatenango volcano:

❇️ Old Town Outfitters: Known for their experienced guides and excellent service, they offer well-organized overnight hikes to Acatenango.

❇️ O.X. Expeditions: A popular choice for their comprehensive tours, they provide quality gear, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on safety.

❇️ Soy Tours: Known for their personalized service and smaller group sizes, they provide an intimate and memorable hiking experience. (Great budget option – $65 with park entrance included!)

❇️ Wicho & Charlie’s: Renowned for their energetic guides and fun atmosphere, they also provide quality equipment and support throughout the hike. (Nice cabin accommodations!)

My top pick???

I personally utilized Tour Guide Salvador and I thought they were fantastic! Great price, sufficient inclusions, and multiple guides. See below for my personal experience on hiking this overnight volcano in Guatemala with them!

Basic itinerary

Generally speaking, here’s what to expect for Day 1 and Day 2 from most tour companies.  What tends to vary the most would be the amenities in the accommodation and inclusions.

Acatenango overnight volcano hike . Generic tour itinerary. Day 1 (Breakfast on your own/could be included) 8:00am - Pickup from hotel in Antigua 9:00am - Bus ride (approximately 1 hour) to La Soledad/start of trail (time to gear up) 10:00am - Start hiking to base camp 1:30pm - Stop for lunch (30 minutes) 3:30pm - Arrive at base camp 5:00pm - Leave for optional Fuego hike (or stay at base camp, rest, hang out with the rest of the group, and watch Fuego erupt from afar) 7:00pm - Dinner at base camp for group that stayed 9:00pm - Fuego group returns and eats dinner Time to sleep - set your alarms for the early wake-up call!Day 2 4:00am - Wake up 4:30am - Hike to summit (approximately 1-1.5 hours) and watch sunrise 6:30am-7:00am - Return to base camp for breakfast 8:00am - Hike back down 11:00am - Drive back to Antigua 12:00pm - Drop off in Antigua

Again, you’ll want to make sure that you acclimate in Antigua for about 48 hours prior to starting your Day 1.

MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE – view my other blog post (coming soon)

FAQ’s

Wondering if this volcano hike in Guatemala is for you? Still have some lingering questions or want additional information?

Can I refill on water on the hike to base camp?

No, there are no water sources available after you start your hike.  However, after hiking for a bit, you’ll get to the official Acatenango park entrance.  There might be some locals selling water, snacks, and other beverages.  This is not a guarantee, though.

You should plan to bring 4 liters (almost 1 gallon) of water. Be sure to stay well hydrated!  This will also lighten the load as you climb.

Is it safe to go to Guatemala right now?

Yes, so far in 2024 it is currently safe to travel to Guatemala!

However, travel safety can be influenced by various factors such as political stability, crime rates, public health situations, and natural disasters, which can change over time. Be sure to stay updated before you go by checking the latest travel advisories listed by your government.

Is it safe to hike on the Fuego volcano?

Fuego is clearly a very active volcano. That’s why you’re going! It’s actually the most active volcano in Central America.

Go with a tour company and the guides will take you only as safely allowed onto Fuego. This volcano in Guatemala is closely monitored by officials for safety.

There's a clear photo of Fuego erupting. There are lots of tall green trees in the foreground. The sky is blue with some clouds and there's smoke coming off of the top of the Fuego volcano.
Fuego is known for its constant low-level eruptions

When was the last time Acatenango or Fuego had a dangerous eruption?

Acatenango last erupted in 1972, but Fuego had a more dangerous eruption since then in 2018. There were causalities in part because of the devastating amount of volcanic ash.

There were more recent larger eruptions of Fuego in May 2023 and April 2024 with lots of ashfall and block avalanches, however, there were no casualties.

Has anyone ever died while hiking the Acatenango volcano?

In January 2017, there were 6 people that tragically died while trying to complete this volcano hike in Guatemala. Details indicate that they died of hypothermia. One report also indicated that some of them were athletes.

Sources indicate that these hikers were trying to climb the volcano without a tour company and were perhaps, sadly, underprepared for the rapid temperature drops.

Embarking on an overnight hike like this can have its dangerous. It’s important then to consider the route, physical intensity, having proper equipment, and being prepared for the weather. That’s why it’s recommended to complete this hike with a tour company.

What’s an easier volcano to climb: Acatenango or Pacaya?

The Pacaya volcano in Guatemala is also a popular volcano hiking tour departing from Guatemala City as well as Antigua. However, hiking the Pacaya volcano is a MUCH easier hike than the Acatenango volcano. The elevation gain for the Pacaya volcano hike is around 752 meters (2,473 feet) and the summit of Pacaya stands around 2,552 meters (8,373 feet).

Essentially, the summit of Pacaya is closer to the starting elevation of the Acatenango hike.

Also, as one who personally hiked both volcanoes, the Pacaya volcano is a lot less steep! I’d highly recommend doing the Acatenango volcano hike first, so the Pacaya hike feels like a piece of cake.

Both are worthwhile and offer unique experiences.

Navigating Antigua, Guatemala

If you’re planning to hike the Acatenango volcano, you’ll most likely do so from Antigua, Guatemala. Since it’s advised to spend a couple of days acclimating to the higher altitude, you’ll get to enjoy more of what Antigua has to offer. 

Let’s talk about transportation to Antigua, accommodations in the charming old capital city, and other noteworthy activities to do while there.

There are three photos. The left photo shows an orange-brown architectural open-air structure. The middle photo shows some palm trees, yellow buildings, and water with the reflection. The right photo shows a very light yellow building with lots of white decals. The name "Antigua" is written in script across the three photos.
The colorful sites of Antigua while strolling on the walking tour

Transportation: How to get to Antigua, Guatemala?

After presumably flying into Guatemala City International Airport, you’ll need ground transportation to get to Antigua.

TRAVEL TIP: One of my favorite travel resources on getting from
point A to point B is: Rome2Rio.com

You can rent a car, hire a private taxi or transfer, take a public bus, or hop on a shuttle!

Always do your online research to find the best option for you, whether you’re looking for the cheapest, fastest, most comfortable, or most suitable choice for the number of travelers.

As a solo traveler arriving very late at night (on a cheaper flight), I crashed at a local hostel near the Guatemala City airport and then I used a shared GuateGo shuttle very early the following morning. It was by far the cheapest option ($19) I saw!

It was super easy to book online and, though it looked a little funny when a minivan pulled up, it was super quick, comfortable, and personalized (they personalized my pick-up and drop-off location). I also kept using this online shuttle booking for getting to other destinations in Guatemala.

There are two photos. The one on the left shows a minivan with the side door open. The one on the right shows the interior view of the van.
The shuttle bus (van) I took from the airport to my hostel in Antigua

Accommodation: Where to stay in Antigua, Guatemala?

When it comes to lodging, preferences and budgets vary widely, as does the number of travelers in a group. Some may prefer private rooms for added privacy, while others might enjoy the social atmosphere of hostels. Additionally, some travelers might opt for Couchsurfing, where they stay with locals for free as part of a social exchange.

You’ll find no shortage of hotels, hostels, as well as Airbnb and VRBO vacation rentals.

HOTEL LOYALTY PROGRAM? If you have a hotel affiliate or a hotel credit card, you might find some options in Antigua. However, there appear to be more options with larger hotel chains in Guatemala City.

The city of Antigua, Guatemala has relatively flat terrain making it easy to navigate on foot. Even if your accommodation is not in the center of the city, you’ll have an easy time traversing the city while you explore.

THRFITY TRAVEL HACK:  If you make your booking through sites like Booking.com or Hostelworld.com, make sure to book through your travel credit card shopping portal and/or activate Rakuten.com or TopCashback for additional cashback!

I personally stayed at Barbara’s Boutique hostel in Antigua.  The greenery interior design is super cute, and it was fun connecting with other travelers over the delicious and filling breakfast!  There scenic rooftop was also a fantastic place for early morning yoga.

Heidi (the author) is wearing a matching leggings and sports bra set holding triangle pose (yoga) on the rooftop balcony of the hostel. There's a wooden bench with colored pillows, orange flowers, string lights, and some mountains far off in the distance..
Morning yoga with volcanoes in the backdrop on the rooftop of Barbara’s Boutique Hostel in Antigua, Guatemala

Lastly, depending on your style and budget, it might be a nice option to book a night in a more luxurious accommodation after your hike as a treat for yourself 🙂

Activities: What else to do in Antigua, Guatemala?

There’s A LOT to see and do in and around Antigua, Guatemala, but here are some of my favorites from my trip:

✅ Walking tour of Antigua
✅ Valhalla Macadamia Farm
✅ATV tour to a coffee farm
✅ Antigua’s Gym

Have more time to explore Guatemala?

Heidi (the author) is in a black bathing suit holding a book. She's laying on a cushion bench with some pillows. She's looking out the full pane wall of windows. Outside the window is a glittering lake, clouds, and some mountains. In the top left corner of the photo it says, "Lake Atitlan"
At an Airbnb on the beautiful Lake Atitlan before my yoga retreat

Guatemala offers a wealth of incredible opportunities and unforgettable experiences, from exploring ancient Mayan ruins and hiking through lush rain forests to enjoying vibrant local markets and indulging in delicious traditional cuisine.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or natural beauty, Guatemala has something extraordinary to offer.

Final Thoughts

Here’s the Rundown: Do you want the pride of conquering a challenging hike and are rewarded with equally thrilling views?

Did you ever think you’d see a volcano erupting before in your life? 
Time to book the flight and check “Guatemala” off your bucket list!

Preparation is crucial: Proper gear, pre-trip training, and acclimatization are essential for this extreme hike.

And the challenge is worth it. Staying overnight provides optimal views of Fuego’s eruptions in darkness and do not miss the spectacular summit sunrise.

If you’re looking for my raw, personal experience detailing my Actenango climb, check out my detailed reflection post here.

Ready to explore more ways to stay fit and healthy on your travels or plan epic adventures across the globe? Here are some ideas…

✴️My Acatenango Volcano Climb: The Epic Bucket List Experience
✴️Conquer the Challenge: Thrilling Via Ferrata Expedition at Mt. Norquay in Banff National Park
✴️The Best Portable Workout Equipment for Staying Fit while Traveling

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