Hiking Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala: A Complete Guide

Hiking Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala: A Complete Guide

Hiking Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala is a bucket-list item for people around the world. It’s one of the only places on Earth where you can reliably see a volcano erupting up close. If you are brave enough, this overnight hike up Acatenango provides some of the most spectacular views in the whole of Central America and should be included in any Guatemala or Antigua itinerary.

This detailed guide will cover all the information to help you prepare for hiking Acatenango. I will also provide further information on tour companies, what to expect (base camp, meals, toilets, altitude), and the optional Fuego volcano hike. Check out the contents page below to skip to your preferred section, or read the article from the top for a complete guide to Guatemala’s most famous volcano hike.

About the Acatenango Volcano Hike

Walk type: Multi-day
Distance: 13.8km
Maximum Elevation: 3976m (13044 feet)
Starting Elevation: 2400m (7875 feet)
Elevation gain: 1600m (5250 feet)
Walk time: Day 1 (6 hours), Day 2 (3 hours)
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: Volcanic eruptions at night, Sunrise from the volcano
Park Entrance Fee: 50GTQ

NOTE: These stats don’t include the optional hike to Volcan de Fuego.

About the Acatenango and Fuego Volcanoes

One of the biggest confusions about the volcano hikes in Guatemala is whether Acatenango and Fuego are different hikes or different volcanoes.

For clarity, the Acatenango volcano is a dormant volcano partially adjoined at the base of the active Fuego volcano (Volcan de Fuego). All volcano hikes climb Acatenango, which provides amazing views of Fuego. You won’t find any companies only climbing Fuego since you need to go up Acatenango to get there. Basecamp is situated on Acatenango at a ‘safe’ distance from the erupting volcano. From there, several companies offer an optional extra hike onto the Fuego volcano to take a closer look.

Acatenango Volcano Location

Acatenango Volcano is located approximately 15km southwest of Antigua. The entrance to the hiking trail begins at the roadside in Aldea La Soledad just south of San Jose Calderas. The best way to get to the starting point of the hike is by road which takes around an hour from Antigua.

If you are looking for Acatenango by eye, it’s easily spotted next to the erupting Volcan de Fuego as it sends plumes of ash into the sky. As viewed from Antigua, Fuego is positioned on the left, while Acatenango volcano is the taller peak on the right. There is approximately 2.5km between the peaks of the two volcanoes.

Volcanic Activity at Acatenango: Is it active?

Whilst Acatenango is dormant, Volcan de Fuego is an active volcano that erupts frequently, spewing lava almost every 20 minutes! These regular eruptions tend to be localised and rarely impact the surrounding areas. However, as one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, Fuego occasionally erupts on a larger scale. The most recent major eruption of Fuego was in 2018 when the volcano had to be evacuated and over 200 people were killed in nearby villages. Meanwhile, the last eruption of Acatenango was in 1972.

FAQs

How long does the Acatenango hike take?

Whilst the Acatenango volcano hike is billed as taking 2 days to complete, it’s actually more like 1.5 days. You will leave Antigua at around 8am on the first day, then return to Antigua around lunchtime the following day.

The total amount of time spent hiking Acatenango is approximately 8-9 hours. This doesn’t include the additional sunrise hike (1.5 hours) or the Fuego hike (5 hours).

Is hiking Acatenango safe?

I’m not sure you can ever classify climbing an active volcano as ‘safe’. However, the relatively consistent eruptions of the Fuego volcano make this one of the safer volcano hikes around the world. That being said, you can’t overlook the risks and unpredictable nature of climbing Acatenango.

In terms of altitude, 3976m is high but not high enough to cause you serious damage. You may be faced with altitude sickness, but it is unlikely to be any worse than that.

Companies will call off their tours if they deem the volcano unsafe to climb because of the weather or volcanic activity.

How much does it cost to hike Acatenango?

Hiking tours of Acatenango cost anywhere from 500GTQ. This equates to approximately £50 or $65 USD. I booked with Soy Tours which cost 500GTQ, including the park entrance fee and camping fee. Hiking Fuego cost an additional 200GTQ.

Depending on your tour company you may need to pay for additional extras such as warm clothes, a headtorch, a walking stick, the Fuego hike, and park entrance fees. Several companies also offer horse rental (600GTQ) or porters to carry your bags (200GTQ) for an additional cost.

Do you need hiking boots?

You don’t need hiking boots to hike Acatenango. However, it would be helpful if you had them. The terrain for the majority of the hike is dusty dirt paths. Whilst hiking boots aren’t absolutely necessary, the ankle support is handy when your legs get tired and any extra grip is useful for slippery slopes.

What’s the weather like on Acatenango?

Lower down the volcano the weather can be more changeable which can yield sun, rain, winds, or cloud.

At the top of Acatenango, the weather is generally more predictable. Above the clouds, you will often have clear skies and wind. Storms occur occasionally but most days provide amazing views and perfect sunrises.

When is the best time to hike Acatenango?

The best time to hike Acatenango is during Guatemala’s dry season between November and April. During this time there is less chance of clouds which could obstruct your view of Fuego Volcano or the sunrise.

This is not to say that you shouldn’t climb Acatenango during the wet season. In fact, the wet season is usually slightly warmer despite the higher chance of clouds. You just have to weigh up the risk of poor visibility.

Can you do the hike in one day?

You are able to climb Acatenango in one day. However, it’s a long slog and you won’t get to experience the main highlights: sunrise or the volcano erupting in the dark.

I would only recommend this if you are extremely tight on time.

You can either hike independently, paying the entrance fee to the park then following the trail yourself. Or several companies offer a 1-day tour of Acatenango. These normally leave at 5:30am and return at 14:30pm.

Booking a tour vs Hiking Independently

Whilst you can hike the volcano independently, I would strongly recommend a tour.

Having a guide that knows the volcano and its hiking trails will make your life a lot easier. They will help you with navigation, safety, and any logistics. Tours will arrange accommodation and food during the hike meaning you won’t have to carry as much gear, nor be concerned about permits or camping spots on the volcano. This makes the whole experience a lot more convenient and allows you to focus on enjoying the hike. Plus you may even meet some awesome, like-minded people in your tour group!

The tours available include the overnight hike and the 1-day tour.

Which company to book the Acatenango hike with?

There are several well-established companies that organise hikes up Acatenango. Key things to consider are price, group size, accommodation, meals, gear hire, and most importantly safety.

Budget options:

• Soy Tours
• Tropicana

These tour companies have their camp location on the west side of the Acatenango volcano. This means that they have a slightly easier route to the summit for the sunrise hike and a ‘better’ view. Personally, I think the view is comparable to campsites on the other side.

Both of these tour options are more popular with backpackers, offering cheaper prices and larger group sizes.

More luxury options:

• OX Expeditions
• Old Town Outfitters

Whilst there may not be ‘luxury’ options on the side of a volcano, these tours offer more than the basics. Instead of tents, you may get cabins. Group sizes are smaller and rental gear available will be of a higher quality.

I opted for Soy Tours following a number of recommendations from fellow backpackers. You can hear my honest review of hiking Acatenango with Soy Tours later in this article.

What to expect when hiking Acatenango Volcano

These details are based on my experiences with Soy Tours.

Whilst the experience across companies is largely similar, bear in mind that different tour operators will have different arrangements. This includes different starting times, meeting points, and routes; as well as varying base camp setups and food. Similarly, within each tour group, the people (fitness and group size) will shape the pace of your hike.

Day 1: Climbing Acatenango (and Fuego) Volcano

08:00: Pick up

A minibus will collect you from your accommodation in Antigua. The cobbled streets in Antigua aren’t fast, so you may be waiting some time either in the minibus or at your hostel/hotel. Once your minibus is full, you will head to your tour operator’s office.

SOY Tours’ office is located at the base of Acatenango in La Soledad. The drive takes approximately an hour from Antigua.

NOTE: Some tour operators are located in central Antigua meaning that you will meet at their office.
NOTE: Some tour operators include a pre-brief breakfast with your group. Traditional Guatemalan breakfasts include eggs, beans, tomatoes, and tortillas.

Once you arrive at the office, you will be briefed and given kit. This is your time to borrow any gear that you need for the hike ahead. You will need warm clothing (hat, scarf, gloves, coats) as well as hiking gear (head torches, rucksacks, and walking sticks). You will also receive your packed lunch for the afternoon.

10:00: Begin hiking

Once everyone in the group has packed their gear, it’s time to set off!

NOTE: The roadside is the last opportunity to buy/borrow any gear. All tour groups will pass through this point as you go through the gates to the path.

The first section of the hike follows a steep trail through local farmlands. Its dusty path dissects the surrounding corn and lily fields which villagers use for harvest.

Whilst a great insight into Guatemalan agriculture, the first stretch is also one of the toughest! Exposed to the sun, following a straight line directly upwards, and with slippery sections, it makes a grueling workout! Even if there is a wooden handrail to help you out in some sections!

At this point, you will be hot and sweaty (and hopefully not considering sacking it off!). Just remember this was a tough warm-up, and it gets easier from here.

To help you through this section, I recommend starting with fewer layers as you will quickly warm up. I saw plenty of sweaty hikers regretting their decision to start the hike wearing thick coats as they struggled to pack their layers back into their rucksacks.

After around an hour of hiking, you will reach the next microclimate of the Acatenango hike: the tropical cloud forest. This section of the walk provides shade from the old-growth trees, cooler mountain air, and a variety of flora and fauna.

Within the cloud forest is the entrance to the National Park and the last ‘toilet’ until base camp. Here is where you pay the entrance fee (if not covered in your tour) and provide your personal details.

13:00: Lunch

Nearing the top of the cloud forest, you will stop for lunch for around 30 minutes in the shade of the trees. Our group had chicken, rice, snacks, and a drink. It was basic but tasty, though I’m very glad that I supplemented it with additional snacks.

As you emerge from the cloud forest, you will enter the high alpine forest. Trees are much sparser here meaning you will have fantastic views in the distance. You should be able to see Lake Atitlan’s volcanoes (Atitlan, Toliman, and San Pedro) as well as Xela’s (Tajamulco, Santo Tomas, and Santa Maria).

As the trees gradually disappear, the anticipation builds and you enter my favourite part of the hike to base camp! Acatenango’s microclimate above the treeline is distinguished by its soft, dark volcanic terrain. Soon enough you will hear the first rumbles of eruptions in the distance. The path will begin to flatten. You may see ash clouds formed from the volcanoes floating through the sky. Then finally you will reach Acatenango base camp and get your first sight of the volcano!

16:00: Arrive at Acatenango Base Camp (3700m)

On arrival at base camp, we were assigned to tents (despite being thoroughly distracted by the volcano).

Our tents were sheltered within a much larger cabin to reduce any exposure to the elements. There was a separate toilet facility in a shelter a short walk away. Plus a campfire with seating overlooking the volcano. General amenities vary depending on your tour operator; some groups provide cabins and chairs, while others provide tents and planks of wood.

Whilst settling in, the porters asked around to see who was interested in venturing further to Volcan de Fuego. Around 25% of our group joined the additional hike, though often it’s more.

Those who opt out of hiking Fuego Volcano remain at base camp. During this time you can watch the volcano erupt, enjoy dinner and sit around the campfire (hopefully with marshmallows). Avoiding the hike will also let you rest fully for the following day.

17:00: Leave to hike Fuego Volcano

To get to Fuego from Acatenango, you need to head towards the saddle joining the two volcanoes. This involves hiking down towards the treeline via the dusty volcanic paths.

Once you reach the lowest point, you will begin the ascent onto Fuego. It’s a steep climb with uneven steps and thin ashy rock. With each step, you will slide back down slightly as the ground moves.

After 2 hours of hiking, you will arrive at the closest point to Fuego that you are allowed. This is a ridge less than a kilometre away from the summit. No groups are allowed any closer to ensure that everyone is a safe distance away from any lava.

19:00: Arrive at Fuego

Now the show begins as you wait for Fuego to erupt.

There aren’t enough adjectives in the dictionary to describe it, words simply don’t do it justice! We sat on the ridge of a volcano, completely mesmerised for almost an hour, taking in this otherworldly moment. It’s an all-consuming experience and something that’s completely different from watching it from base camp.

The silence of anticipation and excitement. Then the euphoria that follows as you feel the ground shake beneath you and bright red rocks explode into the sky. It was incredible.

As it gets dark it can get very cold since you’re sat still and completely exposed on the ridge of the volcano. While you rest, you should rehydrate and have a snack.

20:00: Leave Fuego

Sadly you need to leave at some point (even though you’ll want to stay forever).

The way back to base camp is one of the toughest parts of the hike, knowing you’ve got two hours of hiking in the dark ahead of you. You may be cold, tired, hungry, stiff, or feeling the altitude!

You’ll head back down Fuego the way you came, and back up Acatenango on the other side. Your fellow hikers back at base camp will be able to see your head-torches bobbing along as you meander back towards base camp for a late dinner!

22:00: Arrive at basecamp, eat and bed

Dinner at base camp is a traditional Guatemalan meal with beans and rice. You can huddle around the campfire and watch any last eruptions before getting cosy in your sleeping bag in bed.

NOTE: It can be difficult to sleep given the noise of the volcano and altitude.

Day 2: Summiting Acatenango and descending

03:00: Wake up

Set your alarm and wake up early for sunrise.

It will still be cold and dark outside so put your warm gear on (if you didn’t already sleep in it). Grab everything you need, including water, snacks, your walking stick, camera, and headtorch. You can leave everything else at base camp as you will be coming back.

03:30: Begin the ascent from base camp

This short hike is a slow trudge in the dark to the summit, but the views are worth it!

For those companies on the west side of the volcano (SOY Tours and Tropicana) there is a trail up to the summit which takes approximately 45 minutes.

For the majority of companies on the other side of Acatenango, you will need to scale a steep slope made of soft volcanic ash. The ash slides out from beneath you making it a tough and energy-sapping hike to the summit, taking over an hour.

04:15: Summit Acatenango

You should reach the summit of Acatenango just in time for sunrise.

From the top, you will have 360-degree views. The summit itself is very exposed and expansive. You can walk into the crater to avoid the wind, or around the edge to check out the views in each direction.

The best views are on the side with Volcan de Fuego, Volcan de Agua, and Antigua. This is the side where most people will congregate for photos.

NOTE: Times will vary depending on sunrise times due to the time of year.

07:45: Return to basecamp for breakfast

Once the sun has risen your tour group will start making its way back down to base camp. Here you will have your breakfast and a coffee, enjoying the view of Fuego one last time.

08:30: Leave base camp

Once you’ve had your breakfast and packed your bags, your group will descend the volcano. Though it’s significantly quicker on the way down, it can be slippery and tired legs can make it tougher.

As we were nearing the bottom of Acatenango, we started seeing the tour groups from the next day starting their ascent. It was good to see the struggle on their faces, just as we had the previous day! They received the same words of encouragement and reassurance that it was all worth it from us on our way down.

11:30: Reach the bottom

Once at the bottom, you can take a big sigh of relief and look back at your achievement! It will feel good to have your feet on flat (and less dusty) ground!

At your tour operator’s office, you will return your kit, have a debrief and pay for any additional extras (e.g. Fuego hike). This is also the best time to tip your porters.

Most companies celebrate the completion of the hike with a well-deserved beer!

13:30: Arrive in Antigua

After a sit-down, you will hop back in the minibusses to be taken back to Antigua. You should arrive early in the afternoon, just in time for a well-earned shower and siesta!

Should you hike Fuego as well as Acatenango?

For a fee of approximately 200GTQ (depending on the company), you can head up to Fuego Volcano from base camp to watch the lava erupting from the active volcano itself. The additional expedition will take around 5-6 hours (2 hours up, 1 hour watching, and 2 hours back), so it’s no easy feat having already climbed up to base camp.

If you are able to do this and have the energy left, I would highly recommend it.

Is it scary? Honestly, no. Maybe that’s just me but I was so awestruck by the experience that I didn’t feel scared. Even though lava and rock were spewing into the sky just a few hundred metres away.

How to decide? Make your decision at base camp. Don’t base your decision on your initial plans before you started because a lot can change during the hike to base camp. Particularly as you don’t know how your body will respond to the altitude. You should consider your energy levels; the effect of a late dinner; and any potential impact on the sunrise hike the following day.

What to pack for hiking Acatenango

First, you should confirm what exactly is covered by your tour.

Given that you will be carrying everything up and down a volcano over the next two days, you don’t want to bring anything you don’t need.

• Rucksack: Your bag should be at least 40 litres and preferably with hip straps. I used my Osprey Farpoint 40 travel bag which worked well, though most companies offer their own hiking equipment to borrow. If you are hiking during the wet season, make sure that everything fits inside your bag rather than clipping anything on the outside. Plus a waterproof cover would be helpful.

• Hiking boots/walking shoes/trainers: Good footwear is essential for hiking Acatenango. You only need one pair of shoes for the two-day trip. You may wish to have some more comfortable shoes to wear around the camp in the evening if you’re not climbing Fuego, but honestly, I don’t think it’s worth carrying up. Make sure you have some comfortable, worn-in shoes that are suitable for hiking. Walking boots or shoes are ideal, but trainers will suffice. Couple these with a pair of hiking socks (or sports socks if you don’t have any).

• Hiking clothes: On the bottom, you can wear either shorts or trousers. I opted for shorts during the daytime and wore my trousers over the top when it got cold. On top, a T-shirt is fine, ideally one that wicks sweat. In terms of underwear, wear something comfortable (and bring a spare).

• Warm clothes: Guatemala is generally pretty warm. But at nearly 4000m and exposed to the elements, it can get bloody freezing! You should pack extra layers to put over your hiking clothes for when it gets cold. I wore a T-shirt and fleece, with a down jacket and windbreaker over the top. Plus, shorts with thin joggers over the top which I tucked into my walking socks. Then I had a hat and gloves which were essential and a scarf which I wore to avoid carrying it. I was warm enough throughout.

• Raincoat: The rainy season in Guatemala is from May to October. If you are hiking around this time, pack a rain jacket or poncho. Make sure to check the weather forecast even if you are hiking during the dry season. It’s never a bad decision to pack a lightweight raincoat just in case.

• Water: There is no water source on the volcano. Therefore, you will need to carry all of your water for the whole 2-day volcano hike. A minimum of 4 litres is recommended (more if hiking Fuego). I packed an extra 500ml electrolyte drink as well.

• Camera: Ideally pack a camera with a bit of zoom so you can take photos of the eruptions from basecamp. Just remember everything you pack in your bag you will have to carry. And if you do bring your camera, make sure it’s easily accessible. Don’t shove it at the very bottom of your rucksack, otherwise, you won’t be bothered to re-pack your bag each time you want to take some snaps!

• Battery Pack: Particularly if you’re not bringing a camera, you don’t want to run out of charge on your phone.

• Wash Gear: Pack only the essentials (there are no showers and only a very basic toilet). I brought a toothbrush, toothpaste, suncream, and a small amount of tissue/toilet roll.

• Headtorch: You will want one of these for hiking in the dark before sunrise and for hiking back from Fuego. Whilst I’m usually all for phone torches, this is one of the occasions where I would thoroughly recommend a headtorch. Most companies offer rentals if you don’t have your own.

• 2nd small bag (for hiking Fuego): Not essential, but really handy. I packed a small rucksack inside my initial rucksack so I could dump my belongings at base camp and carry a lighter bag up to Fuego and Acatenango’s summit.

• Other personal items: I didn’t pack anything more than what has been listed above. But this is a reminder to pack anything else specific to you that you need to bring such as glasses, contact lenses, medication etc…

Hints and Tips for Hiking Acatenango

Make sure you are well-rested before your hike

With a day and a half of full exertion, you should at least start the hike with as much energy as possible. Particularly since you won’t get much high-quality sleep on top of an active volcano.

Book a comfy place for your return to Antigua

Similar to the previous point but you’ll have expended a lot of energy during those two days. After a night of ‘roughing it’, you will fancy a bit of luxury… Or at least somewhere that you can get a good night’s sleep.

Don’t book accommodation for the night you are away

Since you will be spending the night on top of a volcano, there’s no need to spend money on accommodation for that night.

If you are concerned about storing any belongings that you aren’t taking with you up the volcano without accommodation booked, you can ask tour companies to look after your gear at the office. Alternatively, you might be able to store your belongings in a storeroom at the hostel you’re staying at on your return.

Prepare yourself mentally

Hiking Acatenango is tough, but it’s also a lot of fun!

Among the backpacker community in Central America, you will hear constant chatter about the Acatenango hike. Sometimes this talk can get in your head and make you overthink the hike where you wouldn’t normally.

Of course, climbing up a volcano with an altitude change of over 1500m in one day isn’t normal and it isn’t easy. It’ll be tough, but it can be done! So don’t worry about it so much that you can’t look forward to it.

Have a good breakfast

You’ll be using a lot of calories while hiking and your first scheduled stop for food isn’t until around midday (or slightly later). Make sure to have a good breakfast before you leave so you are fully energised for the hike ahead.

Bring extra snacks

Whilst you will be provided with meals by your tour company, you should supplement these with additional snacks. Especially if you are considering hiking Fuego as well, you will have an even later meal in the evening.

La Bodonega is a good supermarket in Antigua where you can pick up all the snacks you’ll need for your hike. I recommend bringing plenty. I’d rather carry slightly more weight and have the energy to carry it, rather than be dead on my feet and have no pick-me-ups to munch on!

Get a walking stick (And don’t lose it!)

Whether you bring your own hiking stick or choose to rent one from your tour company, you’ll soon realise that it’s invaluable. It provides stability and support to help guide you up and down the volcano without slipping.

You’ll want your stick even more on the way down with tired legs, so make sure you leave it somewhere safe. I noticed many hikers scrambling around searching for their hiking sticks because they couldn’t remember where they put them.

Interact with your guides and porters

Remember, the porters and guides are there to help you complete the hike and have an awesome experience.

If you don’t think you are able to hike Acatenango with your rucksack, that’s fine. Well done for understanding your limits. The guides make more money from carrying backpacks so don’t feel awkward or embarrassed to use the services they offer.

The guides and porters are part of the team summiting the volcano so treat them like that. Be friendly, have a laugh, and enjoy their company just as you would with the rest of your group.

Many of the guides won’t make a significant wage, so consider tipping if you’ve had a good experience. Even if it’s a small amount, it will be appreciated.

Don’t feel pressured to do anything you’re not comfortable with

You are far more likely to get to the top if you don’t over-exert yourself. Walk at your own pace, one that you can maintain until the end, rather than trying to keep up with anyone else. Remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint. You know your body better than anyone else, so if you’re struggling take a breather, rest your legs, and take on fluids before continuing.

The same goes for any optional hikes. Don’t feel forced to do the Fuego hike if you’re not up to it. The hike to base camp has a fantastic view and the additional hike is significantly tougher. Also, it’s not uncommon for hikers to do Fuego and be too tired to wake up for sunrise the morning after.

Share with your group

Avoid bringing two tubes of toothpaste or two bottles of sun cream. If you know your group before the hike, communicate what you’re packing so you cover all bases between you and can save on unnecessary weight.

Acclimatise to the altitude

Whilst 4000m isn’t the highest peak in the world, it is still high enough to cause altitude sickness! I recommend spending some time at altitude before the hike to acclimatise to the altitude. Antigua sits at 1545m which is fine, Xela (Quetzaltenango) is Guatemala’s highest city at 2330m which is a good alternative. I completed the hike from Xela to Lake Atitlan the week before, which was good training.

Altitude sickness pills

Altitude sickness pills are by no means essential for hiking Acatenango. However, they can increase your endurance and reduce the risk of you getting altitude sickness.

If you do consider taking them, be aware that most altitude sickness pills have some side effects and most need to be taken in advance of the hike rather than just on the day.

Where to stay in Antigua

I strongly recommend booking a decent room to stay in both before and after your hike. Thankfully Antigua is not short of fantastic places to stay for a reasonable price. Here are some of my favourites:

My honest experience of the Acatenango Hike

One of the main reasons I planned my trip to Central America was to hike in Guatemala and complete the Acatenango Volcano hike. So needless to say, I had high expectations.

To put it simply, the experience itself was unmatched. It’s up there as one of the most incredible travel experiences I’ve ever had and certainly one of my favourite hikes.

Admittedly, I barely noticed the views whilst trekking uphill through the cloud forest, but once we made it above the tree line, the views were amazing. I could’ve stayed up there another day!

In terms of exertion and how difficult hiking Acatenango was, I found the hike strenuous but doable. As a confident hiker, the walk to base camp carrying all our gear was pleasantly fine. But I can understand why inexperienced hikers find it a real challenge, as it’s both mentally and physically demanding. The hike to Fuego was significantly tougher after a full day of hiking and I felt myself drained without proper a proper evening meal.

It was difficult to sleep on the volcano because of the noise and the altitude, but after all that exertion you find a way to fall asleep. Before you know it, it’s time to get up and go again for sunrise, so it’s tough to get out of bed! I’m glad I did both because whilst the Fuego hike was the most impressive, the sunrise hike was the most beautiful.

The way down was a bit skiddy on tired legs (and tired mind) but seemed to go quickly. By the time I was back down at the bottom, I was ready for food, a shower and to pass out!

I was grateful for good weather and plenty of (safe) eruptions!

My honest review of SOY Tours for the Acatenango Volcano Hike

SOY Tours is one of the most popular tour companies for hiking Acatenango volcano. They are one of the cheapest for overnight tours, costing just 500GTQ making it perfect for budget backpackers travelling Central America.

That being said, I still need to give SOY Tours a fair review.

Pickup was at 7:30, we spent forever circling Antigua at a snail’s pace as we picked up everyone from their hostels. Whilst I appreciated the pickup, it could’ve been organised better with a specific meeting point with minibusses running directly to the office.

The SOY Tours office was in a great location, with fantastic views in one direction and the start of the Acatenango hiking trail in the other.

Another great thing about the tour was that they offered free rentals for warm clothing. Most companies don’t offer this, so it’s a great way to save money while you are travelling Guatemala.

Gilmer Soy (the owner) is very friendly, which made the pre-brief fun and interesting. During the walk, the porters were also friendly though their English wasn’t as good (still significantly better than my Spanish)!

SOY Tours is one of the largest operators on the volcano, with our group consisting of approximately 30-40 people. This brings with it both positives and negatives.

On the plus side, it made the hike a very sociable experience. With hikers of all standards, the group could separate into faster hikers and slower hikers meaning that you could always walk at your own pace. Ultimately, the pace of the group is dictated by the weakest hiker, meaning that you can’t zoom off at your own pace.

Though several of the main tour companies will take up to 30+ hikers up the volcano in one group, I found this to be too many. The tour felt slightly overcrowded which took away from the experience.

The food on SOY Tours was good. They offer three meals versus some companies’ options of four. Comparing our lunch of chicken, rice, and snacks against other tour companies, ours honestly did look better!

Once at base camp, the shelters were good and I was impressed by how comfortable the sleeping mats were. The tents inside a larger shelter were another good touch so you’re not exposed to the elements. The location on the volcano of the campsite was great with views from the doorway of the shelter and views from the campfire.

The only negative I have comes down to communication. They weren’t particularly organised in terms of sleeping arrangements or wake-up time. This was surprising as their online service was very responsive.

Once at the bottom, drop off of gear was really easy. We had a debrief and a beer and everyone was happy.

There’s a reason that SOY Tours is one of the most popular choices among backpackers being one of the most social and cheapest tours available for Acatenango. Whilst it doesn’t have the privacy or luxuries of other tours available, would I recommend them? Yes. Would you have an amazing time with any other tour company, probably also yes!

Before you go

Thank you for reading my travel guide on the Acatenango Volcano hike. If guides, itineraries, and travel content like this interest you, head over to my blog page to find out more.

If you are new to Matt’s Next Steps, check out the About Me page to find out a bit more about who I am, my travel adventures, and why I wanted to become a travel writer.

Please comment below and let me know your thoughts and experiences, or if there is anything else you want information on.

Happy hiking!