Tajumulco volcano
Tajumulco volcano is the highest summit in Guatemala and Central America reaching 4,220 meters above sea level. The volcano is located in the town of the same name Tajumulco in San Marcos.
Surprisingly is not the most difficult volcano around.
Reaching the summit is quite easy except for the altitude so beware if you have any physical problem or if you are not in regular condition.
The average human with no training begin experimenting altitude problems when making physical work at 2,500 meters above sea level. If your health is ok and you are into sports my guess is you won't have any problems. Truth is, you don't have to go all the 4,200 walking, this region of San Marcos is quite high so you only need to ascent the remaining distance.
Avoid the winter, bring your camping gear with you if you plan to stay the night. There are no shelters and no hotels around.
You can complete the whole journey in one day if you begin your ascent early in the morning. Stay on the trails as it is easy to get lost on foggy days. Remember, the altitud makes you work harder so don't waste your energy, focus on the road and remember, being a volcanic area is very exhausting to walk outside the main road.
As you get closer to the summit you'll find ice among the vegetation, yes, also on the rocks and in between. Bring enough water as the altitude and temperature makes easier to get dehidratated.
What to expect at this journey?
- The landscapes of your life!, even more if you wait for the sunset.
- From the summit you can see almost the complete Guatemala volcanic chain.
- Yes, cold weather most part of the year but remember, the temperature is relative, its about 5 to 12 celcius mostly.
- Fresh and green forest all around.
- Ice, yes, you'll find ice as you get closer to the summit.
Fear not, the Tajumulco volcano is dead (extinct). Remember to try the coffee of the highlands when you end your trip.
How to get to Tajumulco Volcano
Drive from Guatemala City taking the CA1 road passing by Solola and Quetzaltenango. Just when you reach Quetzaltenango entrance you'll see a sign to San Marcos. Take this road and you'll reach San Marcos main city.The road goes up a little bit and you'll reach a fork to Tuichan, Ixchiguan and Tajumulco. Go straight to Tajumulco town and stay on the main road. You'll get to one store located at the "Crucero". This is where you start your ascent.
The complete drive is about 6 hours from Guatemala City.
* Avoid foggy days! you'll get lost and the temperature plus the altitude... trust me, you don't want to walk in circles.
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San Marcos has both the extremes of the region: the low altitude of the beach to the open sea and the highest summit in Central America: Tajumulco Volcano reaching 4,220 meters above sea level. Here the view of the valleys is just amazing, and surprisingly, is not the most difficult summit.