Volcán de Acatenango is one of the most sought after locations in Guatemala, promising breathtaking views, and an unforgettable experience. However, it does not come without its own unique challenges.

On the surface, you would think being nearly 14,000 feet above sea level at the summit of a volcano would be a no brainer, incredible thing to do. Don’t get me wrong, the view from the top was amazing, but the hike up was far from it. It is a two day, one night hike, that is incredibly steep for 95% of the journey. The guides explained to us that it would be hard, but they did not fully disclose just how difficult it would be, and what gear was necessary.

The physicality of the hike alone is enough to question whether or not this journey is for you. You are going to be walking uphill, on loose dirt, for at least 8 hours. I would consider myself in above average shape, and I was really struggling for more than half of the hike. Not to mention, you’re going to be carrying a heavy backpack full of all your food and gear the entire time. If you aren’t someone that is in good shape, or have any kind of heart or breathing condition, I would strongly suggest reconsidering if this is for you.

A good set of gear is also going to be extremely helpful. You don’t need the most expensive stuff in the world, but a solid pair of boots, a good backpack, and weather proof attire are going to be your best friend on this hike. When I went, it rained for the last 5 hours of the hike, which made it absolutely brutal considering my clothes and backpack were not waterproof. I was cold, soaking wet, and both physically and mentally exhausted by the time we got to the base camp. By this point, I was ready to rip my friends head off wondering what he got me into.

The last portion of the hike, from the base camp to the summit was undoubtedly the hardest part. It’s and hour and a half up as steep of an incline you can get without needing to crawl or climb. On top of that, you need a headlamp because you’ll be doing this before sunrise. Thankfully when we got to the top it was clear skies, and no rain. We saw an incredible sunrise over an active volcano, which to this day was probably the coolest sunrise I have ever witnessed. For me personally, that alone was worth the tough hike up.

So, in short, yes, it is worth it to hike up Acatenango. But I would not recommend it to someone who is not fully prepared, and knows exactly what they are getting into. As long as you know what to expect, and bring the necessary requirements, it will be one of the most rewarding payouts after a physical active that you will ever have.

Here are a few things that I would not have let my past self start this hike without:

• Reliable, comfortable, and waterproof hiking boots
• A large, waterproof backpack
• Waterproof clothes, with backup clothes as well
• Plenty of high protein, energy efficient food and water
• A large hat that protects your face
• Gloves
• A good headlamp
• A walking stick (they sell them at the bottom of the mountain)
• Toilet paper and wet wipes (the bathroom situation 13,000 feet up is less than ideal)
• Portable phone charger
• A positive mindset 🙂