Atitlán Volcano is the most physically demanding hike near the lake, a dormant volcano rising directly above the water.
The trail climbs through dense forest, home to a range of wildlife, including the resplendent quetzal, before reaching a summit with views over the lake and its surrounding peaks.
Choose Your Route, starting from Santiago Atitlán:
- Summit & Sunrise Camping (2 Days/1 Night): Your guide meets you at the dock of Santiago Atitlán, or at your hotel there. Day one is a 5–6 hour climb, arriving in time for sunset near the summit. Wake before dawn for a final push to the top for sunrise, then descend and return to Santiago Atitlán on day two.
- Challenging Day Hike: For those with less time, a demanding round trip in a single day. Departs in the pre-dawn hours from your hotel in Santiago Atitlán. After a 4–6 hour climb, spend time at the summit before a 3-hour descent, returning to Santiago Atitlán in the late afternoon.
Hike Details:
- Difficulty: Difficult (8/10) – a strenuous 8 km trail each way. Recommended only for hikers in very good physical shape who have hiked volcanoes before.
- Includes: Knowledgeable local guide and round-trip transportation from Santiago Atitlán.
- Duration: 4-6 hours ascent, 3-4 hours descent.
- Bring:
- Water and snacks;
- Warm clothing (jacket, gloves, hat);
- A raincoat or waterproof jacket;
- Headlamp;
- Hiking boots.
Price per person:
- Day Hike from Santiago Atitlán: Q1000 for 1 person; Q500 for 2-3 people.
- Day Hike from San Juan with private transport departing at 3:00 am: Q1000 for 1 person; Q750 for 2-3 people.
- Summit Camping: Q1200 for 1 person; Q600 for 2-3 people.
- Equipment rental for 2 people (tent, sleeping bags, jackets): Q200 extra.
Ask us about pricing for trail runners, or combining Atitlán and Tolimán volcanoes in a single day.
