Let’s explore the 8 best hikes in Guatemala, as well as cover the essentials you need to know about hiking in Guatemala.
Guatemala is an unusual hikers paradise. With towering volcanoes, dense rainforests, tropical birds, and ancient Mayan ruins, it’s a truly spectacular place to hike. If you want to experience the unique nature of Central America, then we think hiking in Guatemala is one of the best ways to do it.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day hike or a challenging multi-day jungle trek, Guatemala has it all.
Ready to hit the trails? Let’s explore the best hikes in Guatemala in the guide below.
What to Expect When Hiking in Guatemala
Hiking in Guatemala is a unique and exciting experience, totally different from what you might find in other parts of the world.
No matter what hiking trails you choose to conquer, here are some major highlights of hiking in Guatemala.
Volcano Trekking
Guatemala is famous for its volcanoes. If you’re going to hike here, then summiting a volcano is customary.
Popular Guatemala volcano hikes like Acatenango and Pacaya offer thrilling hikes with stunning views. When hiking in Guatemala, climbing a volcano always adds an extra level of excitement to your adventure.
Exploring Mayan Ruins
Many of the best hikes in Guatemala lead to ancient Mayan ruins hidden in jungles or perched on scenic hills.
Sites like Tikal and El Mirador provide a fascinating look into Mayan history. Hiking to these ruins is a truly unique experience you won’t find elsewhere.
Diverse Nature and Wildlife
Guatemala’s trails are rich with natural beauty and wildlife. You’ll see vibrant birds, exotic plants, and diverse ecosystems.
Every hike in Guatemala offers something new and memorable in terms of the natural environment you get to explore.
Multi-Day Hikes
Some of the best hikes in Guatemala can be done over multiple days. This really lets you immerse yourself in the unique Guatemalan environment while hiking.
These longer treks let you explore remote areas and enjoy Guatemala’s landscapes at a slower pace. Guided tours are available, making it easier to navigate and learn about the areas you’re hiking through.
8 Best Hikes in Guatemala
If you’re interested in climbing active volcanoes, trekking through rainforests, and discovering ancient ruins, then hiking in Guatemala is incredible. To help you plan your trip, here are eight of the best hikes in Guatemala for all levels.
Volcán Acatenango
Volcán Acatenango is one of the most popular hikes in Guatemala, known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views. If you’re planning on hiking in Antigua, Guatemala, then this is probably the first trail you’ll do.
The hike typically takes two days, with the trail stretching over 13 kilometres (8 miles) and starting from the village of La Soledad, near Antigua. Hikers traverse diverse landscapes, including agricultural fields, cloud forests, and volcanic ash terrain.
The most thrilling part of the hike is the chance to see the nearby Volcán El Fuego erupting, especially at night, creating a spectacular natural fireworks display.
The summit, at 3,976 meters (13,045 feet), offers panoramic views and a clear night sky filled with stars, making the effort truly worthwhile. Be sure to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes.
Volcán Tajumulco
Standing at 4,220 meters (13,845 feet), Volcán Tajumulco is the highest peak in Central America and a bucket-list hike for many adventurers. It’s absolutely one of the best hikes in Guatemala based on the bragging rights you get from reaching the summit, as well as the awesome views.
The hike begins from the village of Tuichán, and the round trip is about 10 kilometres (6.2 miles). The ascent can be completed in 6-8 hours, depending on your pace.
The trail features rocky terrain and steep sections, requiring a good level of fitness and preparation.
At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch into Mexico on a clear day. Given its altitude, it’s essential to bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop below freezing.
We highly recommend you hire a local guide to navigate the trail safely and maximize your experience.
Volcán Pacaya
For those looking for a shorter yet still exhilarating hike, Volcán Pacaya is an excellent option.
Located near Guatemala City, this trek is about 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) round trip and can be completed in 4-6 hours. It’s the perfect outdoor adventure for a day while you’re based in Guatemala City.
The trailhead begins in the village of San Francisco de Sales. As you ascend, you’ll hike through lush forests and past recent lava flows. The highlight of this hike is reaching the active lava fields where you can roast marshmallows over the still-hot rocks.
At 2,552 meters (8,373 feet), the summit provides stunning views of the nearby volcanoes and the Pacific lowlands.
This hike is suitable for most fitness levels and offers a great introduction to Guatemala volcano hiking. After your hike, we recommend you relax in the nearby thermal pools to soothe your muscles.
Cerro del Rostro Maya (Indian Nose)
Cerro del Rostro Maya, or Indian Nose, offers one of the most iconic sunrise views in Guatemala. This hike, though short at around 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles) each way, is steep and can be challenging due to the rapid elevation gain.
The trail starts from the town of San Juan La Laguna, on the shores of Lago de Atitlán. The hike takes approximately 1-2 hours to reach the summit, which is at an elevation of 2,200 meters (7,218 feet).
From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lago de Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes, especially during sunrise.
This hike is a must-do for those visiting the Lake Atitlán area, offering an unparalleled photographic opportunity above the popular lake.
El Mirador Jungle Trek
The El Mirador jungle trek is an immersive five-day adventure through the dense rainforest to the ancient Mayan city of El Mirador. If you’re interested in multi-day hiking in Guatemala, then this is the trail you want to do.
Starting from the town of Carmelita, the trail spans 40.5 kilometres (25 miles) one way, with the total trek covering around 81 kilometres (50 miles). The journey takes you through muddy terrain and thick jungle, providing a deep dive into the region’s biodiversity.
Along the way, you’ll camp under the stars and encounter wildlife such as monkeys and exotic birds.
The trek culminates at El Mirador, the largest and oldest Mayan city in Central America, featuring the impressive La Danta pyramid.
The hike is relatively flat, and anyone can do it. But, you’ll need stamina for the long distances and sticky mud. Prepare for mosquitos along the way and make sure you pack enough supplies for the journey.
Check out our complete backpacking checklist or our ultralight backpacking gear list for our recommendations on what to pack for this hike.
Quetzaltenango to Lago de Atitlán
The trek from Quetzaltenango (Xela) to Lago de Atitlán is a multi-day adventure that spans approximately 42 kilometres (26 miles) and takes three days to complete. It’s not as demanding as the El Mirador jungle trek, so it’s a great beginner multi-day hiking alternative, or a better route if you have a tighter schedule.
The hike starts from Xela and winds through varied landscapes, including cornfields, coffee plantations, and cloud forests. Along the way, you’ll pass through small villages, providing glimpses of rural Guatemalan life.
Each night, you’ll stay in local accommodations, sharing meals with your hosts and immersing yourself in the local culture. So, you don’t only get to witness the beautiful Guatemala landscapes, but you also get a great insight into the local way of life.
The trek is mostly flat, with a few steep sections, making it accessible to most hikers. Just be prepared to carry your heavy pack over the course of three days.
The journey ends with a stunning descent into the Atitlán basin, offering breathtaking views of the lake and its surrounding volcanoes.
Volcán San Pedro
Volcán San Pedro is one of the most challenging hikes around Lago de Atitlán. Although, reaching the summit of this volcano is highly rewarding.
The trail starts from the village of San Pedro La Laguna and is approximately 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) each way. The hike can be completed in 4-6 hours, depending on your fitness level. The trail is steep and gains elevation rapidly, reaching the summit at 3,020 meters (9,908 feet).
Along the way, you’ll pass through coffee and avocado plantations, cornfields, and dense cloud forests.
The summit provides panoramic views of Lago de Atitlán and the surrounding area. Due to the steep gradient, we advise you hire a guide for safe navigation.
Laguna Chicabal
Laguna Chicabal offers a peaceful hike to a sacred crater lake. It’s an ideal Guatemala volcano hike for all fitness and skill levels.
The trail starts from the village of San Martín Sacatepéquez and is about 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) round trip. The hike typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.
The lake, nestled at 2,712 meters (8,898 feet) within a dormant volcano, holds spiritual significance for the local Mam Maya people. As you hike through cloud forests, you’ll enjoy the serene beauty and tranquillity of the surroundings.
The trail features well-maintained paths and several viewpoints overlooking the lake, making it a beautiful and rewarding hike. Respect the sacred nature of the site by following local customs and guidelines.
This hike is ideal for a day trip and offers a reflective nature experience.
When is the Best Time to Go Hiking in Guatemala?
The best time to go hiking in Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, you can expect sunny days and clear skies, making the trails more accessible and the weather comfortable for hiking.
This period is ideal for outdoor adventures, with better visibility and fewer risks associated with muddy and slippery trails common in the rainy season (May to October).
However, even in the dry season, be prepared for varying conditions in mountainous areas where temperatures can drop quickly. Always check the weather forecasts and trail conditions before planning your hike.
Conclusion
Where else in the world can you roast marshmallows over an active volcano, hike through coffee plantations, and witness ruins that are thousands of years old? Hiking in Guatemala truly is a special experience.
We chose the hikes above as the best hikes in Guatemala for all levels of hikers. Whether you want a short day hike from the city or an immersive multi-day jungle trek, these hikes in Guatemala offer it all.