The Best Hikes in Guatemala: A Hiker’s Paradise
With its dramatic volcanic topography, Guatemala is a hiker’s dream come true. From glowing lava flows and stunning crater lakes to emerald jungles, the entire country is a feast for the eyes, and the summits of Guatemala’s mountains and volcanoes are the perfect places to pause and take it all in.
Most of the country’s best treks are located in the highlands, a region defined by a chain of smoking volcanoes to the south and the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes mountain range to the north. With high elevation, hikers pass through a striking range of vegetation zones, from tropical jungles and pine forests to the altiplano, where everything is wrapped in a shroud of mist.
In the northern jungles of El Petén, multi-day treks take visitors to the ruins of the largest recorded Mayan city, accessible only on foot. Here, ancient pyramids are swallowed by lush vegetation and haunted by howler monkeys and chittering toucans.
The Practicalities of Trekking in Guatemala
While treks abound, getting to the trailheads for many of Guatemala’s best hikes can be a little tricky, especially if you don’t speak Spanish. The trails themselves can also be confusing, particularly in the tropical lowlands, so it is advisable to hire a local guide to show you the way.
Though hiking is a popular activity in Guatemala, you may have the trails all to yourself in some areas. An experienced guide will reduce the chances of accidentally taking a wrong turn or running into trouble. Guatemala’s weather is generally temperate, but the tops of volcanoes can get chilly (below freezing sometimes), so it is wise to bring a few extra layers regardless of the trek’s length.
Volcán Acatenango
Best volcano hike
18km (11 miles) round trip, 6–8 hours or overnight, challenging
Trekking to the summit of 3976m (13,045ft) Volcán Acatenango is probably the most talked-about travel experience in Guatemala – and with good reason. This overnight hike provides dramatic views of glowing orange lava erupting from nearby Volcán El Fuego against the backdrop of an impossibly starry sky.
The hike is not technically difficult, but the trail is steep and the varied terrain makes it challenging, even for experienced hikers. Expect a trek through farms and cloud forests, then crunch over volcanic gravel before leveling out at a sandy crater with breathtaking views of surrounding volcanoes.
Volcán Pacaya
Best hike near Guatemala City
6km (3.7 miles) round trip, 2–3 hours, moderate
Volcán Pacaya is Guatemala’s most popular hike due to its short duration and moderate difficulty, located close to Antigua. The first hour is the steepest, making it a challenging yet rewarding climb.
The trek leads to lava fields that have cooled enough to walk on, providing unique opportunities for roasting marshmallows. Resting points with vendors along the way offer local snacks and drinks, enhancing the hiking experience.
Volcán Tajumulco
Best hike for bragging rights
13km (8 miles) round trip, 6–8 hours, challenging
At 4200m (13,780ft), Volcán Tajumulco is the tallest volcano in Guatemala and the highest point in Central America. Conquering this summit is a badge of honor for experienced hikers. Despite its height, it takes approximately five hours to reach the top, rewarded with views extending to Mexico and El Salvador.
Laguna Chicabal
Best hike for serenity
7.5km (4.6 miles) round trip, 3–4 hours, easy
Laguna Chicabal offers a stunning day trip and is an easy hike, leading to a crater lake with spiritual significance for the indigenous Mam Maya. The water’s edge is often adorned with flowers left as offerings, creating a serene atmosphere.
Cerro del Rostro Maya (Indian Nose)
Best hike to see the sunrise
3km (1.9 miles) round trip, 1–2 hours, moderate
Cerro del Rostro Maya provides one of the best sunrise views over Lago de Atitlán. Although the trek is short and steep, the vistas offered at the summit are nothing short of spectacular.
Quetzaltenango to Lago de Atitlán
Best hike for adventure
46km (28.5 miles), 3 days, moderate
This three-day trek from Quetzaltenango to Lago de Atitlán is known for its stunning scenery and cultural encounters. Hikers will pass through charming villages, cornfields, and cloud forests, culminating in glorious views at Cerro del Rostro Maya.
Volcán San Pedro
Best hike for a challenge
6.5km (4 miles) round trip, 4–6 hours, challenging
The ascent of Volcán San Pedro is steep and demanding, delivering expansive views of Lago de Atitlán upon reaching the summit. The trail is characterized by its beautiful landscapes, but it is recommended to undertake this hike with a guide.
El Mirador Jungle Trek
Best hike for history lovers
40.5km (25 miles) round trip, 5 days, challenging
The five-day El Mirador trek leads through Guatemala’s jungles to the ancient city of El Mirador, home to over 800 structures, including La Danta, one of the largest pyramids in the world. This journey is perfect for history enthusiasts who enjoy immersive explorations of archaeological wonders.
