Cuxliquel volcano hike

CUXLIQUEL VOLCANO HIKE

A Hidden Highland Experience in Totonicapán

Volcán Cuxliquel is one of the most accessible yet underrated natural experiences in the Guatemalan Highlands. Located in Totonicapán, this inactive volcano rises between approximately 2,160 and over 3,000 meters above sea level, and is often mistaken for a hill due to its gentle shape.

What makes Cuxliquel special is not difficulty or extreme adventure—but rather its ease of access, panoramic views, and deep cultural significance. 

The hike is relatively short and approachable:

• Approx. 1 hour and a half ascent / 45 minutes descent
• Gentle slopes and open terrain
• Surrounded by fields and highland scenery

This makes it ideal for foreign travelers of all levels, including those who may not be experienced hikers but still want a meaningful outdoor experience.

Sunset Hike

– A Quiet, Emotional Highlight:

Experiencing Cuxliquel at sunset is where the volcano truly shines.

As you walk upward in the late afternoon, the light softens across the highland fields are spectacular, the air becomes cooler and quieter, and the landscape opens gradually with every step. At the summit, the experience becomes deeply memorable because of the wide panoramic views toward the valley of Quetzaltenango and surrounding volcanoes, a golden horizon stretching across the mountains.

Daytime Hike 

A daytime visit offers a different, equally enjoyable experience:

During the hike, visitors can:

Walk through beautiful Magical forest and agricultural fields, still at the top of the volcano you will be able to enjoy a clear panoramic views of nearby volcanoes such as Santa María and Cerro Quemado, enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photography. 

Whether at sunrise, sunset, or during the day, Cuxliquel delivers a quiet but meaningful experience—one that feels authentic, uncrowded, and deeply rooted in the identity of Totonicapán.

It is the kind of place where the value lies not in what you “do”, but in what you feel and observe.

What to bring? 

1. Comfortable clothes and shoes,
2. A liter of water or another beverage,
3. A sandwich, 
4. Sunscreen.
5.  If you’re doing the night hike, you should bring a flashlight. 
6. During the winter (May-October), bring a rain jacket or coat. 
7. During the summer (November-April), bring warm clothing such as gloves, a hat, and a jacket.
8. Time: For the night ascent, 3:30 pm (Suggested) For the daytime ascent, 9:00 am Ending activity at 8:00pm or 1:00pm
9. Point meeting: Totonicapán (Ask for Location link)

Sunset hike Includes: Guiding service, entrance fee, campfire and a cup of hot chocolate.

Price per person Sunset hike:

50 USD 

To ensure the sustainability and quality of this experience, a minimum of two participants is required per booking. 

Daytime hike includes: Guiding service & entrance fee. 

Price per person daytime hike:

40 USD

To ensure the sustainability and quality of this experience, a minimum of two participants is required per booking.