Guatemala

Climbing Acatenango was hands down one of the most intense and unforgettable experiences of my life as a backpacker in Central America. If you’re in Guatemala and love a good challenge with a magical reward, this is for you. Some links in this article are affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you.) It helps me keep this blog alive and continue sharing adventures. Thanks for your support ! Why Hike Acatenango? From the summit, you get a front-row seat to one of the world’s most active volcanoes: Fuego, which literally erupts every 15–30 minutes. Picture this : you’re wrapped in a warm sleeping bag, sipping hot tea, and boom : lava explodes into the night sky. Just Magic. What’s Included with a Good Tour? Unless you’re a hardcore trekker, I highly recommend doing the hike with a professional tour that includes: Thermal clothing (you’ll need it : it gets below zero!) All meals (dinner + breakfast) Tents, sleeping bags & mats A local Spanish/English-speaking guide Transport from Antigua I personally booked this well-reviewed tour with everything included, and I couldn’t recommend it enough ! Book the Acatenango Overnight Hike here ! What to Pack ? (Even if Tour Provides Gear) Even though most tours provide warm clothes, I still brought: Layers (thermal base + fleece) Gloves & hat Headlamp Portable power bank Extra snacks Altitude sickness pills (if you’re sensitive) Where to Stay in Antigua Before or After the Hike ? You’ll need a good rest before (and after!) climbing 3,976 meters. Here are some top picks: Budget :Central Hostel Antigua (Capsule beds are like little private rooms.) Mid-range : Hotel Casa Rustica (Central location + volcano views) Charming stay : Good Hotel Antigua (Boutique eco-hotel with minimalist decor) Book early : spots fill up fast in high season! Tips to Make It to the Top Go slow. It’s steep, and the altitude hits harder than you think. Hydrate the day before. Don’t be ashamed to take frequent breaks. The summit is optional, but trust me : the sunrise above the clouds is worth every breath.  Extra tip : never pay more than $60 all-inclusive for a tour, you’ll find better deals. Itinerary at a Glance 9:00 AM : Pick-up in Antigua & drive to base 11:00 AM : Start hike through the cloud forest 4:00PM : Reach basecamp (3,600 m) 5:00PM : Optional hike to Fuego ridge (extra fee) 7:00 PM : Dinner & volcano watching by campfire 3:00 AM : Sunrise summit push (optional) 8:00 AM : Descend & return to Antigua by midday ✨ A Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ Hiking Acatenango was a physical challenge but a spiritual reset. It’s a moment I’ll carry forever. If you’re in Guatemala and up for the adventure, do it : but do it the right way. There’s really no point stressing about it, I thought it would be unbearable, but I did it ! The only tough part was the sore muscles the next day haha. Book your all-inclusive Acatenango hike here