Acatenango

"Hiking Acatenango from Antigua Guatemala is a thrilling adventure that offers breathtaking views and a challenging ascent. The hike typically takes two days, with an overnight camp near the summit. As you ascend, you'll see the stunning volcanic landscape and enjoy panoramic vistas of neighbouring volcanoes, including Fuego, which is known for its volcanic activity. The overnight experience allows you to view the eruptions from Fuego and watch the glowing lava flows from a safe distance. You can also watch the sunrise from behind Volcán Agua. This hike is considered very difficult, and is compounded by the altitude. From the trailhead to the summit of Acatenango, the total elevation gain is 1550 metres and takes you up to 3700m in elevation. That said, it is still doable for people of all ages and abilities if you book with the right tour company! The key is just to keep putting one foot in front of the other. I highly recommend going with a tour or private guide to make the trip easier, safer and ultimately more enjoyable. From Antigua, it's about an hour to the trailhead of Acatenango. You'll walk around 6.5kms on the first day to your basecamp for the night and then a further 1.5km the next morning to the summit before hiking down and returning to Antigua. The exact distance you walk will depend on what company you go with, as the base camp locations are all slightly different. Here are some tips to prepare for the hike: First and Foremost: Stay at altitude for a couple of nights before starting the trek. Second: Make sure you have good footwear and appropriate clothing, some companies will lend you gear. It's cold at the summit! And third: Prepare your mind for it to be tough but doable. It's super rewarding to push through finish! Which tour company you go through is up to you! Because this is one of the most popular things to do in Antigua, there are many options. I'd recommend arriving in Antigua at least a few days early (to acclimate to the altitude) and walk around and see which operator gives you the best vibe and ultimately the best experience for you! "

"La topografía de Guatemala se destaca por tener muchos volcanes, algunos de ellos activos. Así que si eres un alma aventurera como nosotros, te recomendamos subir al menos a uno de sus volcanes. Cerca a la ciudad de Antigua está localizada una cadena volcánica compuesta en parte por el volcán de Agua, Fuego y Acatenango. El volcán de Fuego está aún activo y hace erupciones a diario. Si subes a su vecino y gemelo, el volcán Acatenango (inactivo), podrás presenciar y admirar la imponencia y majestuosidad del volcán de Fuego. Esta fue una de las aventuras más intensas de nuestras vidas. La caminata es un reto físico impresionante, pero la experiencia, los paisajes, y ver el Volcán de Fuego en erupción vale cada paso que das. ¡Es alucinante! "

"The Acatenango hike is a must-do while you are here in Antigua. There are few other places in the world you can get so close to such an active volcano. After ascending Acatenango you have a perfect view of Fuego, it's neighbouring, active valcano. It errupts almost every day, some days all day and night long! The tours mostly take two days, ascend on the first day, watch the erruptions in the night, stay in a range of camping'glamping facilities and descend the next day. However there are also options to to the tour in one day in a 4x4. Is it very cold at night up Acatenango so make sure you have enough clothes and good, sturdy shoes, or find a tour company which provides everything (I can help you find the perfect tour for you)."