Two hikers walking on Acatenango volcano summit at sunset, Guatemala.
4.9

Guatemala 5 Volcano Challenge

Hike up five of Guatemala's volcanoes - dubbed 'The Ring of Fire' – ending up at spectacular Lake Atitlán

What's Included?

  • Activities & Certified Guides

    All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides
  • Hotel & Camping

    7 nights in local hotels, 2 nights volcano wild camping
  • Meals

    All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 dinners of tasty Central American food
  • Transfers

    Your airport and local transfers, plus all permits and entry fees
  • Equipment

    All of the camping equipment for sleeping on the Acatenango and Tajumulco volcanoes
  • Small Like-minded Groups

    Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From
excluding flights

What's it like?

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Tales from the trails

Real people, real adventures.

Hike to the epic Acatenango summit (3976m) and witness the incredible eruptions of neighbouring Fuego, Guatemala's most active volcano

Take in the views as you stand on top of Tajumulco volcano (4220m): the highest point of Central America

Toast your volcano trekking exploits with sundowners and celebrations beside the dreamy azure waters of Lake Atitlán

Looking for a shorter adventure? Check out our lava-ly week-long trip, which sees you clambering up three of Guatemala's spectacular volcanoes

Day 1
Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 2
Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 3
Wild camping · Twin tent

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 4 – Day 5
Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 6
Wild camping · Twin tent

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 7
Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 8
Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 9
Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 10
Departure day

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

What is the food like?

Traditional Guatemalan breakfast of eggs, black beans, & fried plantain with tortillas wrapped in basket on handwoven Maya textile.

Traditional Guatemalan food is based on Maya cuisine with Spanish influences. Classic meals usually include corn, beans, chillies, rice, pork, beef, chicken, cheese and tortillas as staple ingredients. Delicious picnic lunches are provided on hiking days. Your host has deliberately not included the evening meals in Antigua, Xela and Atitlan in your trip as it's great fun to explore the food options in each place. Antigua in particular is a food lover's dream, the street food scene here is worth investing some time and Quetzals in. Camp dinners on Acatenango and Tajumulco are real highlights of the trip. Your guide will prep Guatemalan food on the slopes while you take in the views of the neighbouring, and often erupting, volcanic peaks.

If you have any dietary requirements, intolerances or allergies, please check the FAQ below: ‘Can my dietary requirements be catered for on this adventure?’ for specific advice relating to this trip. The availability of foods you may get at home varies in different destinations, so please read the FAQ in full before making your booking to ensure that this trip can accommodate your dietary needs.

What is the accommodation like?

Casa Antigua, Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua

This trip focuses on locally run accommodation, giving you a more authentic experience of Guatemala. As a result, some stays may feel more rustic than you’re used to — but that’s all part of the adventure. In Antigua, you’ll stay in a property reflecting the city’s colonial charm. At Lake Atitlán, accommodation is set in scenic lakeside locations and each of the hotel's 23 rooms is named after a bird that lives in or visits the Atitlán basin adding to its local charm. All accommodation includes ceiling fans, but please note there is no air conditioning.

In Antigua, your base is Casa Antigua (or a similar property), a hotel set in a historic building with lush courtyards and just a two-minute walk from the town's central park. You’ll stay in twin-share rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Guests can also access the swimming pool and sauna at the hotel’s nearby sister property for a small additional fee.

Room at Hotel Modelo, Quetzaltenango, Guatemala
Quetzaltenango Hotel

In Quetzaltenango you'll usually stay in Hotel Modelo (or Casa Morales), a charming, historic 3-star hotel run by four generations of the same family. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with an en-suite bathroom and ceiling fan.

Eco Hotel Uxlabil Atitlan in San Juan La Laguna standrad Bedroom
Lake Atitlan Hotel

At Lake Atitlan you'll stay at Eco Hotel Uxlabil Atitlan in San Juan La Laguna (or similar). The hotel is located on the waterfront, with a private jetty. All rooms feature a balcony with lake views, and en suite twin rooms with fan (no air conditional). It's the perfect spot to wind down after all the volcano action. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with private bathroom.

Basecamp at Acatenango volcano, Guatemala.
Volcano Camping

You'll also camp on volcanoes Acatenango and Tajumulco. All of your camping gear is provided: tent, sleeping mat and sleeping bag. Be advised that night time on the volcanoes can be very cold, so do bring warm layers with you. There will be campfires to keep you toasty at dinner time, while stargazing and watching Fuego volcano do its thing.

Upgrades

All hotel rooms and tents on the trip are based on twin sharing. So for solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room and tent can be booked throughout the trip (subject to availability). See Optional Extras for prices.

Karl(May 2026)
Absolutely awesome

I had the most amazing time, the trip was tough but rewarding. Watching Fuego 🔥 erupting was a highlight, the whole team of guides were the best of fun but looked after our welfare throughout, Diego's "fun facts" not always fun but interesting. The whole group bonded well and I've not laughted so much in years. Highly recommend the 5 volcanoe trip but definitely need to be of a good fitness level.

Annabel(May 2026)
Unforgettable Trip

The 5 volcano challenge was one of the highlights of my travels. We had an incredible team who were filled with energy, positivity and fun facts. Each team member brought something amazing to the trip, Diego with his enthusiasm, Luis with his wisdom, Lester with his delicious cooking and Gerson with his patient driving!

The group all got on very well and I think we can all agree that we all had lots of laughs, even throughout the toughest parts of the hikes.

Definitely would book it again, even knowing how tough some of the volcanoes were!

Peter B.(May 2026)
Diego and his team went

Diego and his team went the extra mile every day of this exceptional adventure tour. In a group carrying some injuries, he did a great job in keeping everyone together and safe. His sprinkling of Fun Facts and local and historical knowledge were real value adds.

Dominic B.(May 2026)
5 Stars for five Volcanoes
5 Stars for five Volcanoes
5 Stars for five Volcanoes
5 Stars for five Volcanoes
5 Stars for five Volcanoes
5 Stars for five Volcanoes

Front start to finish, from being collected at the airport to our last night we where totally looked after by Diego, Louis and Lester. Expertly guided through every ascent and descent of every volcano. Louis providing some wonderful understanding of Maya culture along the way. Lester providing some 9f the best food all week while wild camping. Diego, full of enthusiastic energy made each day a real pleasure. Of course we also get the benefit of seeing Fuego in full force. Thank you

Zoe L.(May 2026)
Hard but most rewarding experience!
Hard but most rewarding experience!
Hard but most rewarding experience!
Hard but most rewarding experience!
Hard but most rewarding experience!

The 5 Volcano Challenge was one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had. It was physically demanding, mentally challenging, and absolutely worth every step. From hiking active volcanoes to wild camping, the views were unreal. The guides - Diego, Luis, and Lester - were knowledgeable, encouraging, and made everyone feel safe and supported throughout the trip!

Gemma K.(May 2026)
Amazing!! Loved it
Amazing!! Loved it
Amazing!! Loved it
Amazing!! Loved it

The trip was everything you could ask for and more! The guides Diego, luis and lester made everything seamless, everything we asked for they seemed to get for us! It was challenging but worth every penny.

Hannah(May 2026)
I lava’d it !! Muchas

I lava’d it !! Muchas volcanoes 🌋

Marie(May 2026)
Excellent trip

What a fantastic trip . Diago did an amazing job. He was always positive and went above and beyond to be helpful to all

MICHELLE(May 2026)
Amazing Amazing Amazing!
Amazing Amazing Amazing!

Had the most amazing time om this adventure! the guides were thorough, knowledgeable, and able to adapt to different needs of the group. The nature and volcanoes was unlike anything I've seen before. Highly recommend!

Kirsty(May 2026)
May 2026

Wonderful trip with great people and awesome guides.

Monika L.(April 2026)
Amazing experience! It was tough

Amazing experience! It was tough but definitely worth the struggle.

The views from the tops vere stunning, there were nice variety of landscapes & nature on a way (with some rubbish unfortunately), hotels & food were good and people were very friendly. Everything was very well organized, but the pace was quiet fast, both during the hikes & in general, so not much free time for wandering around. We arrived to Antigua a day earlier and it was great idea to get some free time before the trip to walk around and see the city.

Hikes were amazing and very various, so we enjoyed all of them, but watching exploding volcano from the campsite was definitely one in a lifetime experience, which was the biggest highlight of the trip!

Our group & guides worked out perfectly, we had lots of fun together and made some friends along the way. Huge shout out to: Diego - the most energetic and knowledgeable guide ever (we miss your talks already); Rudy - the best outdoor cook (he cooked better food than some of the restaurants which we've been to during the trip) and last but not least Luis aka Pio - our best spiritual guide with huge knowledge about fauna & flora! They really went above & beyond! Despite all the difficulties they faced during the trip, they did absolutely amazing job and made our trip truly unforgettable. Our driver's skills were impressive too! Thank you & hopefully see you again one day!

Tips for other travelers:

  • arrive earlier to Antigua or stay longer in the lake Atitlan
  • do not take dollars as tips as according to our guides they're more difficult to exchange than euros & British pounds
  • if you like dogs - take some little snacks - they're everywhere
  • difficulty level in my opinion is so high mostly because of the heat & fast pace. The hikes are not too difficult, steep sometimes, but nothing crazy. The altitude is not bad if you've done something similar before, but with dehydration can be a thing. However, these are not a slow hikes, the pace is quite decent, so take it into consideration.
Carolina F.(April 2026)
Trip of a lifetime!
Trip of a lifetime!

This trip exceeded every expectation I had. A week of non-stop hiking with a group of people who share the same outdoorsy love. Every volcano feels like a journey of its own, and every summit was earned. From Pacaya as the perfect starter, to watching Fuego erupt in real time, to sacred Chicabal, standing on top of Central America at Tajamulco, and finishing by sprinting down San Pedro (pure insanity in the best way possible). The logistics were seamless. Hotels were comfortable, both camp nights were great, and everything ran smoothly. Fair warning though: the drives are long and you can get nauseous as it’s a mountainous country! The guides made this trip. Diana kept us fuelled the entire way, prepping lunches for every volcano and somehow pulling off a full breakfast inside a tent after an early summit push. Josias had camp set up, equipment sorted, and kept us dry through a stormy evening on Tajamulco. And Rolo, there aren't enough good words. He knows these volcanoes inside out, keeps the group safe, makes every hike genuinely fun, and brings so much warmth and humour to every moment. You can feel how deeply the guides love Guatemala, and they pass that love and culture on to everyone around them. The group itself was something special. 14 people, 5 volcanoes, 100% summit rate; while still finding energy to hang out every evening and explore the towns along the way. I came home with friends from all over the world and hundreds of stories to smile about.

Jason S.(April 2026)
Amazing Experience
Amazing Experience

Trip was an absolute amazing experience, the guides were great super knowledgeable and extremely motivating.

Breann H.(April 2026)
Incredible trip!
Incredible trip!

Well organized and put together tour, muchbetteradventures were great to deal with prior to the trip, answering questions etc. Watching fuego erupt at sunrise was an amazing experience. The group of 14 were so helpful and motivating towards each other, which made the entire experience that much more enjoyable. Our guides Rolando, Josias, and Diana did an amazing job at organizing and keeping a positive energy throughout the trip.

Jeremy O.(April 2026)
Unbelievable Experience

I highly recommend this trip. The hiking was great, the volcanoes were stunning, and the guides were excellent. But what really made this the trip of a lifetime was the people. Everyone on the trip was excited to be there, to meet new people, and to support one another. After only a week, it felt like I had known everyone for a lifetime! The hiking was demanding, but if you're up for the challenge, you'll be rewarded with an experience like no other and awesome new friendships.

Mary S.(April 2026)
Amazing fun!
Amazing fun!

Very well organized and fun tour! We had the best guides, Rolo, Josias and Diana all brought positive energy and so much fun. Diana also whipped up the most delicious meals! The volcanos were all very different and watching the active eruptions from Fuego from our campsite was an experience I won’t forget! The group was diverse and from the first night to the last so many laughs and great conversations were had, truly added to the experience!

Christopher S.(April 2026)
Amazing Trip
Amazing Trip
Amazing Trip
Amazing Trip

Guatemala is a beautiful country with some lovely hiking! The tour was very well irganuzed from start to finish. The staff was amazing. Rolando, Josias, and Diana- thank you so much! We will be looking into another much Better Adventure in the near future.

Andrew D.(April 2026)
Unbelievable Experience
Unbelievable Experience

Any trip is done good by the people that you are surrounded by. Anything can happen when bring people together from around the world. But when the staff and tour leaders are top-tier everything flows as a great time. We even had a day of unplanned civic protest and road blockages. However, our guides navigated through all this and made the folks on tour feel at home, safe and progressed the tour on slightly a different direction for a day. Which was still just as good as the original plan. It’s this attention to detail and service that puts these folks above all else. Couldn’t have a had a better experience.

Oh and the country and people of Guatemala are nice too!

Emily H.(April 2026)
A fun and stunning adventure start to finish
A fun and stunning adventure start to finish
A fun and stunning adventure start to finish
A fun and stunning adventure start to finish
A fun and stunning adventure start to finish

The itinerary says it all! 5 stunning hikes that take you around Guatemala, and avoiding some of the crowded trails. We had a fantastic group of solo travelers ranging from late 20s to 50s and everyone got along well. The hiking guides were friendly and knowledgeable and set a great pace, ensuring the group could move together or split up and go their own speed. As a vegetarian the food was great, prepared each day by the lovely guide and cook Diana. Bring headphones or a book to relax on some longer bus days! I booked an extra day in Lake Atitlan at the end which definitely helped with relaxation.

Em M.(April 2026)
5 Volcano Challenge

Overall good trip. Lots included and nice accommodation. Good guides (shout out Giananina - she’s amzing!), good food, good hikes. Lovely group. Be even better if everything was included from get go, as have to factor in tips / dinners etc en route also. Efficiently organised. Great way to see Guatemala!

Tommy B.(April 2026)
Guatemala 5 Volcano Challenge

I just completed the 5 Volcano Challenge in Guatemala, and it was a truly unforgettable experience.

It was an adventure filled with incredible people who made every step worth it. Angeles “Angie”, our lead guide, was truly the heart of the journey. Her passion for hiking is contagious, and her knowledge and love for nature really kept me motivated during some difficult hikes. I was constantly asking her questions during the hikes, which she was always happy to answer for me.

Giannina did an amazing job behind the scenes, making sure everything ran smoothly. As well as making sure all of the equipment was perfectly organized, which made it so much easier for us to focus on the hiking experience. She is also an incredibly friendly person who brought a great energy to the group.

A huge shoutout to Angel, our chef, who somehow managed to prepare delicious, meals even in some really remote settings. (The lunch at lake Chicabal was my personal favourite)

And of course, Marcelo, our driver, who safely navigated some pretty intense roads and was also surprisingly good at football.

My highlight of the trip was on Volcan Tajumulco where is snowed for the first time in over 15 years. It was amazing to see the joy on all the guides faces because most of them had never seen this type of weather before. This is something I will never forget.

I hope that one day I can return to Guatemala and drink a Quetzalteca with the team!

Tommy :)

Melanie S.(April 2026)
5 Volcanoes, Countless Challenges, One Incredible Experience
5 Volcanoes, Countless Challenges, One Incredible Experience
5 Volcanoes, Countless Challenges, One Incredible Experience

Overall, this trip pushed me both physically and mentally, which is exactly what I was looking for. Each volcano offered something completely different in terms of landscape, terrain, and hiking experience, which kept every day exciting and unique.

The standout moment of the entire trip was summiting Acatenango and witnessing Volcán de Fuego erupting. Sitting around the campsite at night watching Fuego light up the sky was unforgettable. Camping there was an incredible experience, you could hear and even feel the eruptions through the night. It’s something I’ll never forget.

One of the most intense moments came during our climb of Tajumulco. As we were approaching the summit, a freak hailstorm hit, something the guides said hadn’t happened since 2009. At the top, we experienced thunder, lightning, and hailstones that began to settle like snow. Despite the extreme conditions, our guide handled everything calmly and professionally, getting us down safely. It was the right decision not to camp due to the unpredictable weather. I felt completely safe throughout, and honestly, it added to the adventure, how many people can say they’ve been caught in a hailstorm at the summit and had to descend and evacuate? That’s a story I’ll be telling for a long time.

The Team Angeles (Hiking Guide) was incredible. She set a great pace on every hike, challenging but always allowing time to rest, take in the views, and enjoy each volcano. Her energy was infectious and really brought the group together. She was clearly experienced, knowledgeable, and deeply passionate about her country and nature. It was obvious she genuinely wanted us to have the best possible experience.

Giannina (Trip Coordinator) did an amazing job managing logistics, equipment, and the overall flow of the trip. Everything felt seamless. She also supported at the back of the group during hikes, making sure everyone was comfortable and progressing at their own pace. That extra level of care made a big difference.

Angel (Chef) prepared some of the best food I had in Guatemala. His passion for cooking and his energy throughout the trip were fantastic. The meals were consistently delicious and something I genuinely looked forward to every day… I’ll definitely miss his cooking.

Marcel (Driver) was extremely experienced and navigated the busy roads, especially during Holy Week with ease. We always felt safe and well looked after. He was friendly, helpful, and always had a smile.

This is one of the best trips I’ve done with Much Better Adventures. The combination of physical challenge, breathtaking environments, an outstanding support team, and a great group made it truly special.

I’ve come away not only with incredible memories but also new friendships, we’re already talking about planning another trip together.

Highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for a real adventure.

Tom C.(March 2026)
Lots of volcano's

Had an amazing time on the 5 volcano challenge, its quite a varied trip with the volcano hikes obviously but also plenty of other activities such as the hot springs and time to explore Antigua and Lake Atitlan at your own pace. Quite a bit of time spent on the bus but that's unavoidable given the distance between the volcanos.

The group was great fun and big shout to the guides Joel, Uriel and Dede who were always up for a laugh and looked after us very well

Jenny A.(March 2026)
Awesome trip
Awesome trip
Awesome trip
Awesome trip

A trip of a lifetime… we were incredibly lucky when the clouds cleared for us to experience Fuego erupting and a breathtaking view from the top of Acatenango. Out of this world stuff. Enjoyed every single trek, and it was great to have some chilled down time at Lake Atitlzn which is stunning.

A big shout out to our guides Joel, Uriel and Dede who were amazing and worked so incredibly hard throughout the trip. Special mention to Dede for being a constant joy to be around and creating unbelievable food for us on the treks (top tip, she LOVES Percy Pigs!!!).

The trip is rated a 6 which I think fairly reflects the difficulty level, with not only the treks but also the possible impact of the altitude.

Highly recommended - loved my Guatemalan trip with some truly awesome travel buddies ❤️

Kevin S.(March 2026)
Amazing Trip

This was an amazing trip, we had 2 great guides, fantastic cook and an amazing driver. I would very much recommend this trip. .

Jackie S.(March 2026)
Smashing Fun
Smashing Fun

From start to finish this trip went above and beyond. Be prepared for back to back days of arduous physical activity followed by long hours on the bus. Despite the long days and lack of down time, the trip felt relatively balanced and well thought out.

Thank you Angie, Lester, Angel, and Andy for the leadership and care put into each day. Cant recommend enough. The memories and relationships will last a lifetime. Cheers

Stephen W.(March 2026)
Volcanoes are like triangles - very steep sided with a point

Very enjoyable tour that was as advertised and met expectations in terms of quality and difficulty. Some of the accommodation was rustic, but nevertheless was consistent with the cost of the tour.

Andrew H.(March 2026)
Incredible experience with an amazing group
Incredible experience with an amazing group
Incredible experience with an amazing group
Incredible experience with an amazing group
Incredible experience with an amazing group
Incredible experience with an amazing group
Incredible experience with an amazing group

My 7th MBA trip and again as usual it was exceptional. The 12 of us got on so well which added to the experience. Our head guide, Angie is one of the best guides I have ever had. She balances fun, safety and being informative so well. The other guides/driver/chef were also great and made the whole thing seamless despite this being a very challenging trip (thanks to Lestor, Angel, and Andy). Not to forget Eduardo who was great pre trip and very easy to communicate with. The trip itself is one of MBA’s best trips! The itinerary is well balanced. There are some long bus rides but the bus is comfortable and actually a good opportunity to sleep or bond with the group. This is a challenge for sure but very achievable and well worth the effort for the sunrise views and sense of achievement. Finishing in lake Atitlán is a nice touch. Guatemala itself is a must visit. We all felt very safe, the people are welcoming and the scenery is stunning.

Matthew V.(March 2026)
5/5 Trip
5/5 Trip

What an amazing adventure! Our guides; Angie, Lester, and Angel were fantastic! The entire trip was coordinated, cohesive, and fun. From the hiking to the food, everything felt thoroughly thought out. Would definitely recommend this experience to anyone who wants an adventure. Thank you guys for an unforgettable experience!

Alex(March 2026)
Trip of a lifetime
Trip of a lifetime

Angie, our guide, was incredible. She kept the trip light and fun and encouraged us every step of the way. The volcanoes were breathtaking and the memories will last a lifetime. You’re going to LOVE it!!

Itinerary Activities

  • Guided hike to the summit of Cerro Grande (2561m), continuing on to the flanks of Volcán Pacaya
  • Guided hike to the summit of Acatenango (3976m)
  • Guided hike to the summit of Chicabal (2845m)
  • Visit to the natural hot springs at Fuentes Georginas
  • Guided hike to the summit of Tajumulco (4220m), the highest point in Central America
  • Boat ride across Lake Atitlán
  • Guided hike to the summit of Volcán San Pedro (2988m)

Guides

  • Expert, local, English-speaking guides

Accommodation

  • 5 nights in local hotels
  • 2 nights in an eco-hotel
  • 2 nights wild camping

Transfers

  • Arrival transfer from Guatemala City Airport (or in Guatemala City on request) on Day 1
  • Departure transfer to Guatemala City Airport on Day 10
  • All transfers during the trip

Meals

  • All breakfasts
  • 6 lunches (picnic lunches are provided on hiking days)
  • 2 dinners of tasty Central American food

Equipment

  • Tents and bedding for camping on the Acatenango and Tajumulco volcanoes

Permits

  • All permits and entry fees

Our trips are hassle-free by design. We include all the activities and equipment, as well as many of the meals, so you can simply rock up with your rucksack and share the adventure with your new pals.

Travel to and from the trip

Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.

Tips

Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion. You'll usually be guided and supported by up to three guides during the trip (your lead guide, plus one or two assistant gear and cooking guides), plus a local driver. We recommend to tip the following amount per person, but you are free to tip more or less and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

  • Guides: $35-40 USD per guide in total for the trip
  • Driver: $20-25 USD total for the trip

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures, and you'll need to provide your policy details before departure. Your insurance should offer adequate cover for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment, and the specific activities involved in your adventure. We also recommend ensuring your policy includes cancellation and curtailment cover, in case you're unable to join your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness.

Standard travel insurance may not cover all the activities included in your adventure, so it's essential to check the details carefully. There are adventure-specific providers that many travellers have used in the past, such as True Traveller (for those based in the UK or Europe), or Rise + Shield, both of which offer cover for a wide range of adventurous activities.

Please make sure your chosen policy meets your individual needs and covers all aspects of your trip.

Visas

Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.

Personal Expenses

You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.

What's included?

  • All of the camping equipment for sleeping on the Acatenango and Tajumulco volcanoes is provided (tents, sleeping mat and sleeping bag)(It gets very cold at night on the volcano. If you tend to feel the chill, bring a thermal sleeping bag liner and thermals to supplement the one provided)

What do I need to bring?

Bags

  • Soft duffel bag or suitcase (your main travel luggage that gets moved between hotels for you)
  • Daypack approx. 35l+ (for trekking with, including for the overnight camps where you'll be carrying water, food, personal belongings)
  • Waterproof liner for rucksack or drybags

Clothes

  • Down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Breathable wicking layers
  • Fleece jacket or similar
  • Thermals (merino is best)
  • Warm hat
  • Two buffs or neck scarf
  • Gloves
  • Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear and socks
  • Swimwear
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Something to sleep in
  • Hiking boots (worn-in)
  • Sandals

Other

  • Walking poles (strongly recommended)
  • Sleeping bag liner for hygiene and extra warmth (sleeping bags provided are suitable for the climate but colder temperatures can be unpredictable and a liner may help add warmth)
  • Pillows: a small inflatable travel pillow for use in the tents
  • Gaiters (optional)
  • Padlock for left luggage
  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Spare camera batteries
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Ear plugs
  • Insect repellent
  • Suncream
  • Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Toilet kit (toilet paper, biodegradable bags to carry out)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Alcohol hand-gel
  • Headtorch or torch
  • Reusable water bottle x 1 ltr (Water can be refilled in most hotels).
  • Biodegradable wet-wipes
  • Energy bars and snacks

FURTHER INFORMATION Your main luggage is transfered each day by vehicle to the hotel. You will be required to carry your day pack for the days hike only. On nights where you are camping you will pack in your day pack your essentials for the overnight. Your main bag will be transferred to the next hotel.

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Explore Antigua

    Driving
    1.5 - 2hrs · 42km
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Show Day 1 detail

    You'll be met at La Aurora International Airport (or in Guatemala City on request) for your transfer to Antigua, Guatemala's ancient capital and the base for the first of your volcano climbs. After settling into your charming central hotel, you'll have free time to wander the town's cobbled streets, marvel at the colourful restored colonial buildings or browse the myriad of street stalls. Enjoy an optional night out with your fellow adventures before getting some rest ahead of your epic adventure starting tomorrow.

    Day 2

    Hike Pacaya Volcano and Cerro Grande (2561m)

    Hiking
    4hrs · 11km · 850m up · 850m down
    Driving
    2-3hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 2 detail

    In the morning you'll get straight to the task at hand: volcano trekking! You'll meet the group and drive to the trailhead of Pacaya National Park, lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail for what is an ideal acclimatisation trek. The route weaves first through steep dense forests and green slopes reaching the summit Cerro Grande (2561m), overlooking the imposing cone of Pacaya volcano (2552m). Next you'll descend along the base and black flanks of Pacaya, through ancient lava fields formed by eruptions as recent as 2010. Geothermal hotspots can be found on the cooled lava formations. As a young active volcano, the summit of Pacaya is often closed for safety reasons by the local authorities so reaching the top is not always possible. However trekking this spectacular circuit route and getting close to it will be equally rewarding. You'll head back to Antigua for the evening: grab a beer and some classic Central American food from Antigua's many street stalls, bars, restaurants and cafes, then rest up for your epic Acatenango climb tomorrow.

    Day 3

    Acatenango Volcano climb and overnight camp (3575m)

    Hiking
    5hrs · 7km · 1170m up
    Wild camping
    Twin tent
    All meals included
    Show Day 3 detail

    Grab a big breakfast in Antigua before driving for an hour to the trailhead at La Soledad. Prepare for a challenging climb up the imposing Acatenango slopes, but the reward at the top will be more than worth the effort! Set off through farmland and small villages, before ascending steeply into a beautiful cloud forest. This is an area of high biodiversity, home to the famous Quetzal bird. You'll soon be greeted with sweeping views of the highlands and neighbouring volcanoes:, the perfect time for a picnic on the volcano slopes. Continue up through temperate forest until you'll reach your private camp spot at 3750m above sea level. You’ll then enjoy dinner around the campfire and hopefully the show of a lifetime, the continuously erupting Fuego Volcano (just 4km away) belching fumes and lava into the night sky.

    Day 4

    Summit Acatenango Volcano (3976m) at sunrise

    Hiking
    4-5 hours · 8km · 400m up · 1550m down
    Driving
    3.5hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 4 detail

    You'll rise early before sunrise to complete the hour-long hike to the top of Acatenango at 3976m. The final stretch to the summit along scree and sand becomes steeper and loose underfoot but once at the top your efforts will be quickly repaid by sweeping 360-degree views of the entire Guatemalan highlands, all the way to the border of Mexico. Next, you’ll descend through several different micro-climates as you lose altitude. Back at the trailhead, you'll jump in the van and head towards Guatemala's second largest city, Quetzaltenango - also known by its Mayan name, Xela. Check into your hotel and enjoy a free evening in this lively city.

    Day 5

    Hike Chicabal Volcano (2845m) and relax in natural hot springs

    Hiking
    2-3hrs · 7km · 400m up · 400m down
    Driving
    3.5hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Next up is your third volcano, Chicabal. There is a one hour drive to reach Laguna Seca where the hike begins. Today's summit is an easier hike taking you up to a sacred site in the Guatemalan highlands, to a mystical lagoon that sits within the crater of Chicabal volcano. The site represents the centre of the cosmos for the Mam Maya, and traditional ceremonies sometimes take place at the lake. After descending from the volcano there is a short journey to Fuentes Georginas to bathe in the natural hot springs before returning to Xela for the evening.

    Day 6

    Tajumulco Volcano - Central America's Highest Point (4220m)

    Hiking
    5-6hrs · 12km · 1219m up · 255m down
    Driving
    3-4hrs
    Wild camping
    Twin tent
    All meals included
    Show Day 6 detail

    Another early start and a three-hour drive to San Sebastian, close to the Mexican border, sets the base for your climb up Tajumulco, Guatemala's highest volcano and the highest point in Central America. Today is a long day with around five hours of hiking. There are beautiful forest trails and pine-studded ridges on the way to your campsite for the night. You'll put your head down to sleep at approximately 3965m above sea level at another awesome night of wild volcano camping. Get some rest in preparation for tomorrow's sunrise summit.

    Day 7

    Summit Tajumulco (13,845ft) and drive to Lake Atitlan

    Hiking
    2 hour · 2.5km · 436m down
    Driving
    4.5hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 7 detail

    Rise early as from the camp, the volcano summit is a steep 30-minute climb, topping out at 4220m. You're officially on top of Central America! Make your descent back to camp for a well earned breakfast before ascending further down the Volcano to meet your vehicle. You have a long drive to recover on, with a lunch stop en route, through the Guatemalan highlands to spectacular Lake Atitlán. You'll take a boat across the lake from Panajachel to your lakeside eco-hotel in the small but lively town of San Pedro. The rest of the evening is free to relax and enjoy this special place. Head into town or just lie in a hammock and bask in the views of water and fire - lake and volcanoes all around you.

    Day 8

    Hike up San Pedro Volcano (2988m)

    Hiking
    5hrs · 9km · 1230m up · 1230m down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 8 detail

    You may have been relaxing, but this adventure isn't over yet! Today is your fifth and final volcano: Volcán San Pedro. After breakfast beside the lake, you'll take a short transfer to the trailhead. Experience your final epic hike through a cloud forest, with sweeping highland vistas and spectacular views back down towards Lake Atitlán. At approximately 3000m, San Pedro volcano is no baby, but it's a fitting place to end your volcano hiking adventure. Back in San Pedro, maybe head out with your fellow adventurers and guides for a night of celebration!

  2. Day 9

    Unwind at Lake Atitlan and head back to Antigua

    Driving
    3hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 9 detail

    Congratulations, you've summited five volcanoes in a week! You've certainly earned a rest this morning, so the lake and eco-hotel are yours to soak up as you wish. There are kayaks available, or you can choose to visit the neighbouring village of San Juan, the perfect place to shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Early afternoon you'll head back to Antigua for a final evening, celebrating your adventure with your group.

  3. Day 10

    Goodbye Guatemala!

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 10 detail

    Enjoy breakfast in Antigua and any spare time you may have before your host takes you back to the airport in Guatemala City for your departure flight.

Getting There

Nearest airport
La Aurora Airport (GUA)
Pick up
La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City (GUA)
Arrive any time on Day 1
Drop off
La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City (GUA)
Depart any time on Day 10

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DEPARTURE DATES

  • Friday 26th June 2026

    to Sunday 5th July 2026

    Summer Sale - Next 2 spots available at 5% off

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Optional Extras

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation

Double/Twin room in Antigua
…/per night
Single room in Antigua
…/per night

Single Occupancy

Private Solo Room & Tent Upgrade from

Transfers

Private transfer between Guatemala City and Antigua (each way, per vehicle for 1-3 people) from

To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Illustration of a group of people kayaking

GOT A GROUP OF 6 OR MORE?

Book the whole trip privately. We sort the details, you split the cost. Pure adventure, zero faff.

FAQs

If any of the volcano summits are closed for safety reasons by the local authorities then your host team will decide on what alternative trek(s) to do. They will choose an alternative trek that complements the difficulty grading of the trip and takes into account best practices for safe altitude acclimatisation.

No, your local host has a private basecamp on Acatenango so you don't have to hump up the camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat plus cooking gear). For the climb up to Toliman summit you'll be helped to take the camping gear to the campsite by support staff. On these two days, you only need to carry your water for the hike up, clothes, and any other extras you want. Filtered drinking water is available at the camping spots so you can refill your bottles at the end of the hikes, and before descending the following day. You won’t need a big backpack, you will be fine with a day backpack of approx 30-35 litres.

If you prefer to hike with an even lighter load, local porters to the overnight camp sections are available to hire locally at an extra cost: $65USD. Your host in Guatemala has worked alongside local communities around the volcanoes to help set up a guide association to ensure fair pay for porters and guides, and high safety standards for all visitors to the volcanoes. If you'd like to request this service, please speak to your host or your guide before the trip or during the first briefing.

This is a Level 6 Trek and so the fitter you are the more you will enjoy. However, this isn’t a race. Our trips are group adventures, and everyone will move at a different pace. Adventure travel also comes with a level of unpredictability — weather can change, plans may shift, and accommodation can sometimes be more rustic than you’re used to. That’s all part of the experience.

Your guide is there to keep things safe and running smoothly, but a great trip also relies on the group. If you find yourself moving faster on a climb, take a moment to check in with others — a bit of encouragement can go a long way. These trips bring together people from different countries, backgrounds and walks of life, and that shared experience is what makes them special.

Take things at a steady pace, support one another, and make the most of the time together. You might just leave with a new friend or two.

Tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink, so you'll need to stick to bottled or filtered water. Each hotel you'll stay in will have filtered water where you can fill up your bottles before each hike, making sure that you carry plenty for each hike. Your host is passionate about reducing single-use plastic waste in Guatemala, so they won't provide plastic bottles of drinking water at any stage.

At Much Better Adventures, we work hard to accommodate dietary requirements and allergies so your trip is safe, inclusive and enjoyable. That said, options can vary by country, location and accommodation, and in some places options may be limited or unavailable. The information below has been provided by your host so you’re fully informed about what will be possible on your trip depending on your individual requirements. This information should be read carefully prior to your trip to ensure that you are adequately prepared for the situation ‘on the ground’.

Once you have booked on your trip, please fill out your passenger information form asap with any dietary requirements. Once you complete your passenger information, your dietary needs and any allergies are automatically shared with your host and, in turn, your guide. Please submit this as early as possible so they can plan accordingly and deliver the best experience. Please also remind your guide about your dietary requirements upon arrival, as mentioning these in person allows your guide to comprehend individual preferences and limitations as soon as you arrive.

BACKGROUND

Guatemalan food has a really rich background shaped by Indigenous Maya traditions, Spanish colonial influence, and local geography. The food is characterised by a heavy reliance on corn, black beans, and rice, typically served in hearty, nutrient-dense, and often stew-based meals.

SPECIAL DIETS

Vegetarian -Vegetarian diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance. Vegetarian travellers generally find options based on rice, beans and vegetables, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Antigua and Lake Atitlán, where veggie-friendly, vegan, and organic restaurants are common.

Vegan -Vegan diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance. While traditional, rural food is meat-heavy, major towns offer many dedicated vegan restaurants, plant-based options, and fresh local produce, including staples like black beans, avocado, and tortillas.

Kosher -Fully certified Kosher kitchens and supervision are rare and usually cannot be guaranteed unless expressly confirmed in advance by your host. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. The Host is unable to guarantee a separate, certified cooking/preparation area or the use of certified kosher products. They can, however, provide meals that exclude non-Kosher ingredients (such as pork and shellfish) and avoid mixing meat and dairy.

Halal -Certified Halal supply varies by location and may not always be possible. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above.

INTOLERANCES

Gluten Free -Gluten-free diets including Coeliac can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance. Finding gluten-free food in Guatemala is manageable, especially in tourist areas like Antigua and Lake Atitlán, which offer dedicated cafes and restaurants with GF labeled options. Authentic Guatemalan food is largely corn-based (tortillas, tamales), but cross-contamination can be a risk, and restaurants often use wheat-based additives

Lactose Free -Lactose-free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance. Many traditional dishes are naturally lactose-free or can easily be prepared without dairy, such as grilled meats, rice and vegetable dishes though eggs are common.

ALLERGIES

Our host has confirmed that provision for certain mild and severe or life threatening food allergies on this trip may be unreliable. Please get in touch with our Customer Experience team prior to booking to discuss whether your requirements can be accommodated safely on this trip.

This will allow us to carefully consider the sensitivity and severity of your allergy, the available provision on the trip and the accessibility of medical care should a reaction occur. Your safety is always our top priority. Please note that when travelling overseas, local ingredients, food preparation methods and labelling standards may vary, particularly in remote areas. It is also worth noting that any allergies may result in more limited options and repetitive provision in some areas. Whilst your guide will help communicate dietary requirements where possible, customers remain responsible for managing their own allergies during the trip.

Yes you can leave your excess luggage in Antigua if you need to. Be aware that you won't be returning to Antigua until the end of the trip, so you'll need to take everything with you for the volcano climbs.

For groups of up to four, there will be one guide. Groups of five to eight will have two guides, and groups of nine to 14 will be accompanied by three guides. In addition to the main hiking guides, support staff will assist with camping logistics on Acatenango and Tajumulco, depending on group size.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way. Check out our Community Values – a shared code to make sure that everyone's experience is safe, inclusive and brilliantly unforgettable.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

The dry season runs from November to March, with October and April also good times to visit. The Guatemalan highlands offer a reliable climate for hiking, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 27°C, though nights on the volcanoes can drop below 0°C. January to March brings the most consistent dry, sunny weather. By April, temperatures can dip slightly, with cooler nights and an increased chance of showers, although rain is possible year-round. Late November offers good conditions with fewer tourists before the holiday rush. The rainy season (May to October), often referred to as the green season, brings afternoon showers, lower prices and fewer crowds. It remains a good time for trekking, when the landscape is at its most lush.

Be aware that camping on Acatenango and Tajumulco involves sleeping at around 4000m above sea level, where temperatures can drop to between 0°C and 5°C overnight. Pack warm layers for these nights, including thermals, fleece and a down jacket.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 221kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

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