Acatenango Volcano Hike & Camp from Antigua: 2-Day Summit Trek

You sleep on the volcano and wake at the top.

A two-day camping trek up Acatenango volcano from Antigua, Guatemala, where you hike to a high-altitude camp on day one, sleep there, and climb to the summit before dawn on day two to watch the sunrise. The tour includes all meals, camping gear, a live guide in English or Spanish, and pickup from Antigua. The hike on day one runs five to six hours depending on fitness, and children from age twelve are welcome.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1: Acatenango volcano

• Pick up clients at 7:30 am
• Provide basic camp equipment
• Eat lunch at camp
• Start ascent from route starting area
• Eat dinner at camp
• Sleep at camp

Day 2: Sunrise view of the Volcano

• Eat breakfast at camp
• Watch dawn and sunrise
• Reach volcano summit if weather permits
• Take photos and enjoy views

The experience

The day starts with pickup at 7:30 am from Antigua. You drive to the base camp where the guide issues your camping equipment and sleeping bag, then head straight to the trailhead. The ascent on day one takes five to six hours (the pace depends on the group's fitness level), and the trail climbs steadily through changing terrain as you gain altitude. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. You eat before the hike, at camp, and after you arrive.

Camp sits high on the volcano's slope, and that is where you sleep. The next morning, the guide wakes the group well before dawn and you climb the final stretch to the summit. If the weather holds, you reach the top in time to watch the sunrise from Acatenango's peak. The views and the light at that hour are what people come for: the kind of moment that photographs never quite capture. After sunrise, you descend back to camp, collect your gear, and return to Antigua.

This is not a guided walk with commentary at scenic stops. It is a physical overnight trip that requires a stable fitness level and the willingness to sleep outside at altitude. The operator recommends against it for travelers with poor cardiovascular health. Waterproof mountain boots, warm layers, a windproof jacket and cold-weather accessories (cap, gloves, thermal socks) are essential. The weather at altitude changes fast. The community entry fee is included in the price, so there are no surprise costs once you book.

What’s included

• Pickup from Antigua at 7:30 am.
• camping equipment and sleeping bag.
• three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
• entry to the community.
• a live guide in English or Spanish.
• air-conditioned vehicle to and from the trailhead.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00

AgesAdult (21 to 45 years) · Senior (46 to 75 years) · Youth (16 to 20 years) · Child (12 to 15 years) · Under 12: can't be booked

GroupUp to 30

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends at a different place from where it starts.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 72 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Physically demandingPets welcomeNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Colonial Travel Agency

Is this one for you?This trek suits hikers who are physically fit and want a real overnight mountain experience, not a day trip with a guide. The two-day format and high-altitude camp are what make the summit sunrise possible. A single-day climb would mean missing it or arriving exhausted.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (16 to 20 years); Child (12 to 15 years). Children under 12 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 72 h before the start.

How long is the hike on the first day?

The ascent on day one takes approximately five to six hours, depending on the group's fitness level and pace. You start from the trailhead after breakfast and arrive at camp in time for dinner.

What do I need to bring for the cold at night?

Acatenango requires three layers: a breathable base layer (quick-drying shirt and thermal underwear), a mid layer (sweatshirt or fleece jacket), and a waterproof windbreaker with a hood. Also pack thermal socks, a cold cap, gloves, a scarf or buff, and sunglasses. Waterproof mountain boots are essential.

Is camping equipment provided?

Yes, the tour includes a sleeping bag and all basic camping equipment. The camp is set up and waiting when you arrive on day one.

What meals are included?

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included. You eat before the day-one hike, at camp that evening, and again before the summit push on day two.

Does the tour go to the summit if the weather is bad?

The summit push on day two depends on weather. If conditions allow, you climb to the peak to watch the sunrise. If not, you stay at camp. The guide makes the call based on safety and visibility.