Acatenango Volcano Trailhead — Attraction in Chimaltenango

Don't be too put off by scare stories about how hard it is: The view from base camp alone is worth it, even if you don't go to the Fuego add-on. If you struggle there's the option to take a horse or 4x4. Personally I found San Pedro much harder.

I'm not in great shape (38 year-old, don't do much sport these days), having read several blogs I was very worried I wouldn't make it to base camp, and almost didn't sign up. But was not too hard getting to base camp, only the first hour is a bit slow going up through volcanic gravel, but no need to rush. Apparently groups usually take 5 hours, ours took a bit over 6, with lots of stops, only about 3 hours actually walking. Getting a porter for my backpack helped : 200Q for the way up, no need for way down. Wooden walking pole hired for 10Q well worth it, especially for the way down and for the Fuego add-on. Knee straps helpful for...

Trekking Acatenango is hard. Trekking Fuego on the same day is double hard. Having to save an ill-prepared trekker who barely completed Acatenango and was poorly equipped for Fuego made it unnecessarily harder. The guides should have stopped the individual from doing Fuego; however, more importantly, don't put yourself (and others, who then have to save you) in unnecessary danger. Take personal responsibility for your own safety, be honest with yourself about your capabilities and enjoy what should be an incredibly memorable life experience (for the right reasons!) If you struggle to complete Acatenango, sit Fuego out and enjoy the views from the fire of the fire...

One of the most spectacular experiences of my travels in South America. The views, sunrise over Antigua as the other peaks poke through the low lying cloud cover and of course the regular eruptions of Volcán del Fuego. This hike is not for sissies, granted I’m not the fittest, but you climb more than 1000m in about 5-6km. The pathway is dirt and gravel most of the way and this makes it really slippery in parts, you need to use some strategy to avoid skating. The juice is worth the squeeze though, and the 3000 Cal you burn getting up...