Hikes and Treks!

Cost: Q300 per person

Includes: Transportation and certified local guide
Group size: Minimum 2 people

Elevation: 3,772 meters above sea level (12,375 ft)

• Description
  The Santa María Hike is one of the most iconic and challenging hikes in the Quetzaltenango region. This volcano is famous for its historic 1902 eruption and for offering spectacular views of the active Santiaguito volcanic complex from the summit.
• The trail ascends steadily through farmland and forest before reaching steep volcanic slopes. From the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Pacific coastal plain, surrounding volcanoes, and—on clear days—ongoing volcanic activity in the distance.

Difficulty level: Moderate to Challenging

• Hiking time: Approximately 6–7 hours round trip
   
• Terrain: Steep dirt trails, loose volcanic rock, and exposed sections
   
• Altitude: High elevation; physically demanding and best suited for hikers in good condition
   

What to expect

• Early start recommended
• Cold and windy conditions near the summit
• Dramatic volcanic landscapes and wide-open views
• One of the best viewpoints of Santiaguito
   

What to bring

• Sturdy hiking boots
• Warm layers (hat, gloves, windbreaker) 
• Plenty of water and snacks
• Sun protection
• Hiking poles (recommended)
   

This hike is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a physically demanding experience and one of the most rewarding summit views in western Guatemala..

• Elevation: 2,712 meters above sea level (8,898 ft)
  Group size: Minimum 2 people
• Price:

- Monday to Friday: Q400 per person 

-Weekends: Q350 per person
 

• Includes: Transportation, entrance fee, and certified local guide

Description
The Chicabal Hike leads you to Laguna Chicabal, a volcanic crater lake located high in the cloud forest above Quetzaltenango. The trail winds through dense pine and cloud forest before reaching the crater rim, where you descend stone steps to viewpoints overlooking the lake.

Laguna Chicabal is a sacred place for the Mam Maya community, used for ancestral ceremonies and spiritual practices. Visitors are asked to maintain a respectful attitude—speaking quietly, avoiding swimming, and honoring ceremonial areas around the lake. Your local guide will explain the cultural and spiritual significance of the site alongside its natural history.

Difficulty level: Moderate

• Hiking time: Approximately 2–3 hours total
   
• Terrain: Forest trails with some steep sections and stone steps
   
• Altitude: High elevation; suitable for people with average fitness
   
• What to expect
• Cool, often misty mountain weather
• Lush cloud forest and native wildlife
• Panoramic views from the crater rim
• Cultural interpretation of Mam Maya traditions

• What to bring
• Hiking shoes with good grip
• Warm layers and/or rain jacket
• Water and light snacks
• Sun protection
• This hike is ideal for travelers looking for a combination of nature, culture, and a meaningful visit to one of the most important sacred sites in the region.

Cost: Q1,000 per person

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Group size: Minimum 2 people
Guide: Certified local guide throughout the trek

Description
Join us on a three-day trek from Quetzaltenango (Xela) to Lake Atitlán, one of the most scenic and meaningful routes in the Guatemalan highlands. This journey takes you far from the main roads and tourist transport, following mountain trails through cloud forests, coffee-growing areas, cornfields on steep hillsides, and quiet rural villages.

Each day offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural connection. You will cross rivers, enjoy panoramic mountain views, and experience daily life in local Maya communities. Evenings are spent in community-based accommodations, including the opportunity to use a temescal (traditional Maya steam bath) and to share home-cooked meals with local families.

On the final morning, we start early to reach a viewpoint overlooking Lake Atitlán, where you can watch the sunrise before descending toward the lakeshore. The trek finishes near San Juan La Laguna, with time to relax by the lake before continuing your onward travels.

Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging

• 5–7 hours of hiking per day
• Mountain terrain with steady ascents and descents
• High-altitude hiking; good physical condition recommended
   

What’s included

• Certified local guide
• 2 nights of accommodation in rural communities
• Meals during the trek
• Transportation at the end of the trek toward Lake Atitlán
   

What to bring

• Sturdy hiking shoes
• Warm layers for evenings
• Rain jacket
• Water bottle and personal snacks
• Small backpack
   

This trek is ideal for travelers looking for an authentic, community-based adventure and a rewarding way to arrive at one of Guatemala’s most iconic destinations.