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.
The Acatenango overnight hike in Guatemala is one of the most popular treks in Central America : not just for the challenge, but for the chance to watch Fuego volcano erupt every few minutes.
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 !
Quick Facts : Acatenango Volcano Hike
- Duration: 2 days / 1 night
- Elevation: 3,976 m (13,044 ft)
- Difficulty: Challenging (but doable!)
- Start point: Antigua, Guatemala
- Best season: November to April (dry season)
- Tour price: Around $40–50 all-inclusive
- Highlight: Watching Fuego Volcano erupt from your campsite
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, when boom : lava explodes into the night sky. The earth shakes, the sky glows red, and all you can do is whisper “wow.”
It’s raw, it’s powerful, and it’s something you’ll never forget.
What’s Included in an Acatenango Overnight 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 !
What to Pack for the Acatenango Volcano Hike? (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)
Best Hotels in Antigua Before Your Acatenango 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 for Hiking Acatenango Volcano Like a Pro
- Go slow. It’s steep, and the altitude hits harder than you think.
- Hydrate the day before (and during).
- Take breaks often. Everyone does.
- Summit is optional, but trust me : the sunrise above the clouds is worth every step.
- Don’t overpay. Never spend more than $60 all-inclusive for a guided tour.
How to Get to Acatenango
The adventure starts in Antigua, Guatemala, about one hour from Guatemala City. Most tours include round-trip transportation from your hotel in Antigua to the Acatenango trailhead near La Soledad village.
If you’re traveling independently, shared shuttles and private taxis also run daily from Antigua.
Acatenango Overnight Itinerary (2-Day Hike Plan)
✨ 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.
Hiking Acatenango isn’t just a climb : it’s a reminder of what travel is about: pushing limits, finding peace above the clouds, and watching the earth breathe fire.
Book your Acatenango Overnight Tour here and watch Fuego Volcano light up the night sky.
BISOUS