Guatemalan Highlands & Volcanoes

14 days - from $2100

Hiking amongst the mountains and lakes of the Maya
The central highlands of Guatemala are a true paradise for walkers. Formed by intense activity along the Pacific Ring of Fire, lofty volcanoes are commonplace, and on this trip we ascend to the summit of several of the most accessible peaks. The scenery is dramatic throughout, especially in the range surrounding beautiful Lake Atitlan. Here, we hike through traditional Indian villages, coffee plantations and cloud forest as we climb peaks which offer staggering views. Although most of the volcanoes are now dormant, we also walk to the ever-shifting lava flows of active Pacaya and to the steaming crater of Cerro Quemado. As well as the fantastic walking on offer, there is plenty of time to delve into the local culture and find out more about the Mayan Indians who live in the highlands. The colonial city of Antigua is a photographer's dream with its colourful low houses and the ruins of churches destroyed by the earthquakes which have rocked Guatemala over the centuries. 

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Antigua. 2 Transfer to Pacaya Volcano (2570m) and hike to lava field. 3 Drive towards Lake Atitlan; walk to Panajachel. 4 Walk to summit of Cerro de Oro Volcano; descend and transfer by road and boat to San Juan la Laguna. 5 Free day to relax. 6 Ascent of Indian's Nose Peak; camp at Santa Clara. 7 Ridge walk to San Marcos Peak; explore caves with Mayan paintings. 8 Hike through mountains to Santa Catarina. 9 Climb through cloud forest to ridge of Siete Cruces Mountains. 10 Hike to summit of Zunil Volcano (3542m) for views of 14 volcanoes and Lake Atitlan; descend through jungle. 11 Free day to enjoy hot springs; optional ascent of Santo Tomas Volcano (3505m). 12 Hike to summit of rugged Cerro Quemado Volcano (3197m); overnight in Quetzaltenango. 13 Transfer to Antigua; free afternoon. 14 Free day to explore colonial town, or optional ascent of Fuego Volcano (3763m). 15 End Antigua.

Mode of travel: 4 days point-to-point walking with full porterage and 6 daywalks. Altitude maximum 3500m, average 2200m.
Group size: Normally 5 to 16 plus leader and appropriate local staff.
Accommodation: 8 nights hotels, 6 nights full-service camping.
Food: All breakfasts, 11 lunches and 6 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $323.75
Trip Reference: TAE
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Trip Reference: TAE