Acatenango is THE ultimate overnight hike in Guatemala. It is absolutely mind blowing to look out from your tent and see an active volcano spewing lava. I could not recommend this experience more!!!

I won't sugar coat is though, the hike itself is tough. Its just straight uphill for around 6-8 hours with changes in altitude making it harder to breathe. But your guide will have you take breaks for rest and food.

Once you reach base camp, you can choose to continue on and hike Fuego for sunset. Most of the group stays back and enjoys the campfire and rest. But if you have the energy to continue, Fuego is somehow even more stunning. To get even closer to the lava and see the views of multiple volcanos during sunset is a memory I will forever cherish. But be warned, Fuego is TOUGH. You basically have to hike down from base camp, then up Fuego, then down Fuego, and back up to base camp. I was sore for a full week after. But I would do it again in a heartbeat.

If you opt out of Fuego, don't worry because you can wake up for sunrise and hike to the summit of Acatenango. Then the whole groups hikes back down in the early afternoon. The dusty down that seemingly never ends.

There are soooo many companies you can choose from to be your guides. They all range in terms of price, accomodation, and food. But the tour itself is pretty much the same. They all include transport, the hike, guides, food, a place to sleep, and a campfire.

I went with Wicho and Charlie's and thought they were fantastic. Fair price, great food, good gear, and really knowledgable guides.

If there is one thing you do while in Guatemala, let it be this hike!!