Yepocapa of Acantenango to be exact. Let me walk you through how I got here, the experience, and some pro(not a professional) tips so you don't freeze to death at night.
Acantenango is a beast of a volcano overlooking the region of Chimaltenango, Guatemala at a staggering 3,880m (12,729ft). It consists of two peaks, Pico Mayor and Yepocapa, the latter of which I summited. Although it hasn't erupted since 1972, as I would be drowning in lava and ash,
Acatenango is the neighbor of the tallest active Volcano in Guatemala, "Volcan de Fuego", measuring in at 3763 meters (12,346 feet).
Eruption of Fuego during the ascent
Now how does one climb a volcano you maybe be wondering? Maybe lava proof boots or sprinting to the top between eruptions? None of the above!
Please don't climb active volcanoes.
I spent many hours hunched over my computer clacking away trying to find the best AND cheapest route to the summit; After reading testimonials of people getting stuck during cold fronts and going down the wrong trails I decided it was best to book a guide and not attempt to solo it. For that I went with V-Hiking Tours Guatemala. They are a locally owned business that offers fantastic guided tours to the summit getting you up close and personal with El Fuego. I highly recommend them as the included meals, gear rental, and friendly guides just can't be beat.
The ascent can be divided into three parts.
The Climb:
One hour of hard vertical climbing on a slippery dirt path. On the way up you pass beautiful farms as you enter el colchón de nubes(mattress of clouds), much like Apu Siqay in Peru. I highly recommend some good hiking boots for this part.
The Jungle:
In this part, the flora encroach on the dirt path and lush trees tower over head. The route takes lots of twists and turns and can be a bit steep at times. If you're lucky you might even see a Quetzal the national bird (and currency) of Guatemala!
El Colchón:
As the dense foliage starts to shrink away tall temperate trees arise. The route flattens out and you continue to climb ascending above a vast expanse of clouds. From here it is about 40 minutes to base camp.
Congrats you made it! You'll have dinner, rest, and depart for the summit in the morning to watch the sunrise.
P.S bring extra layers and a raincoat. It gets cold
Oh and I got a hair cut
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