GUATEMALA: OCTOBER 17 - 25, 2026

After you register, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Six months before the trip, you'll get access to everything you need: training plan, packing list, travel tips, logistics, food guidance, history, and more. You’ll also be invited to join the group WhatsApp chat 2 months before the trip for community connection. If you have questions, Piper is happy to hop on a call—can’t wait to have you join us!

The trip starts and finishes in Guatemala City, Guatemala. Please arrive by 3 PM on the first day of your trip so you can check into the hotel and meet us at the opening ceremony dinner. The trip finishes in Guatemala City, at a hotel near the airport. 

We’ll move at a steady, sustainable pace led by our local mountain guides, with a sweep guide in the back so no one feels rushed. Acatenango is a steep, high-altitude climb, so think slow and consistent with plenty of short breaks.

Typical pacing & time on trail

Ascent to camp (Day 3): ~4–6 hours of hiking (not including breaks).

Expect ~25–40 min per mile (1.5–2.5 mph) depending on terrain, fitness, and altitude.
Sunrise summit push (Day 4): ~1–1.5 hours up, ~45–60 min down to camp.

Final descent to trailhead: ~2–3 hours back down after breakfast.
 

What it feels like

• The route climbs through farmland, cloud forest, and volcanic sand—it’s normal to slow down as elevation increases.
   
• We take frequent micro-breaks to hydrate, adjust layers, and enjoy the views.
   
• You can hike faster or slower at your own pace within guide-managed spacing; we regroup regularly.
   

Support & options

• Our local guides set the pace, manage breaks, and support hikers across ability levels.
   
• 4x4 ride to the overnight camp may be available for an additional cost if hiking the ascent isn’t possible for you. Availability is limited—email Hello@PiperRuiz.com to request this option.
   

Good to know

• Altitude tops out around 13,000+ ft / 3,900+ m, so slow-and-steady wins.
   
• Bring 2–3L of water, electrolytes, and pack layers—temperatures can drop quickly near camp and on the summit push.
   

Bottom line: there’s no rush. We prioritize safety, enjoyment, and everyone reaching camp (and the summit) at a comfortable pace.

A 4x4 ride to the overnight camp may be available for an additional cost if hiking the ascent isn’t possible for you. Availability is limited—email Hello@PiperRuiz.com to request this option. This option is only available with advance notice, it cannot be arranged in real-time, so if you will need this service, you must book it with Piper in advance. 

Yes — during registration you’ll receive a short survey where you can share dietary restrictions and medical conditions. It’s important that all dietary needs are disclosed before the trip so we can plan accordingly.

Guatemalan cuisine is generally flexible, and many restaurants are able to accommodate common needs such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free. However, options can still be limited in certain regions — especially during the Acatenango overnight hike, where meals are prepared at camp.

We will do our best to help you navigate food choices throughout the trip, but please understand that accommodations for highly restrictive diets may be challenging in more remote locations. If you have complex dietary needs or questions before booking, you’re welcome to schedule a free chat so we can discuss your situation.

Your comfort and safety are our priority — the more we know ahead of time, the better we can support you.

We  will depart between 6 and 8am each morning. You will receive the schedule the day before in the WhatsApp chat.

Each accommodation is thoughtfully selected to give you a memorable and comfortable experience. We’ll stay in 4- and 5-star boutique hotels throughout Guatemala, offering beautiful design, cultural character, and modern amenities. For one night on the Acatenango volcano, we’ll stay in private glamping tents, giving you a cozy and unforgettable night under the stars with views of Volcán Fuego. These unique stays provide a well-rounded experience of Guatemala — from historic Antigua to lakeside Flores — blending comfort, culture, and adventure. 

You can travel with someone else and let us know when you register you want to room together. If you are a solo traveler, you roommate will be someone of the same gender. You will receive an email with your roommate's information before the trip. If you are traveling with another person and would like to room together, you can let us know upon registering or via email. 

We’ll enjoy authentic Guatemalan cuisine throughout the trip, with all meals included. Some meals will be plated, while others may be buffet style, depending on the region and activity for the day.

Guatemalan food is flavorful, nourishing, and often features:

• Fresh corn tortillas
• Grilled meats (pollo asado, carne asada)
• Rice and beans
• Hearty soups (like pepian or kak’ik)
• Plantains
• Fresh fruits
• Local cheeses
  Avocado
   

In Antigua, you’ll find vibrant restaurants offering both traditional dishes and modern, elevated takes on Guatemalan classics. When we travel to Flores, expect delicious lakeside dining with fresh ingredients and regional flavors.

During our Acatenango overnight, meals are prepared at camp and are simple, warm, and filling — perfect after a day of hiking.

You’ll also get the chance to try traditional treats such as:

• Tamales
• Chiles rellenos
• Atol (a warm corn-based drink)
   

Vegetarian options are generally available, though choices may be more limited in remote areas. Overall, you’ll experience the warmth of Guatemalan cooking — fresh, comforting, and rooted in tradition — fueling you for each day of adventure.

You’ll only need a small daypack each day. We’ll provide a detailed list of what to bring, along with daily recommendations based on our activities.

Typically, you’ll carry:

• Water
• Snacks
• Extra layers
• Sunscreen + sun protection
• Personal items
• Camera or phone
   

For the Acatenango overnight hike, we’ll give you a specific packing list with recommended layers and essentials. Your main luggage will remain at the hotel and will not need to be carried up the volcano. We’ll guide you through what to pack and when — so you feel prepared, comfortable, and confident every step of the way. 

You’ll be accompanied by Piper and another experienced guide throughout your journey, both trained in wilderness first aid to help ensure your safety, comfort, and confidence. In addition, we’ll be joined by expert local guides for our cultural experiences, volcano hike, Mayan site visits, and city explorations. These guides share rich knowledge of Guatemala’s history, environment, and traditions, offering unique insight you won’t find anywhere else. From hiking Acatenango to exploring ancient ruins, you’ll always have knowledgeable, caring support nearby!

The trip sells out at 24 travelers. 

No problem — CPAP machines are welcome on this trip.
Guatemala uses Type A and Type B outlets, which are the same as in the U.S., so most travelers will not need a power adapter. However, some sockets may not have a third grounding hole, so if your CPAP plug has a ground prong, it’s helpful to bring a 3-to-2 prong adapter just in case.

At our boutique hotels, outlets are readily available.
For the overnight on Acatenango, electricity is limited at camp, so you’ll need to bring a battery-powered CPAP if required. If you have questions about equipment or backup options, feel free to reach out before booking — we’re here to support you.

A $1,000 non-refundable deposit is due upon registration to secure your spot. The remaining balance is split into two easy payments of $1,600 each: one is due 6 months before your trip, and the other 3 months before your trip. 

We understand that plans can change, and we want to ensure clarity regarding our cancellation and refund policy. Please read the following guidelines carefully:

Cancellation Policy

Trip Confirmation: The trip will proceed as published unless an act of God, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances occur. In such cases, we reserve the right to adjust or change the details of the itinerary, including accommodations and activities, while maintaining the integrity of the experience.

Cancellation Notification: To cancel your trip, you must notify us in writing via email. If you intend not to attend, it is crucial that you email us as soon as possible to inform us of your cancellation. Please note that no refunds will be provided under any circumstances, so we recommend travel insurance. 

Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected events that may affect your travel plans. This insurance can cover costs associated with trip cancellations, interruptions, or emergencies.

Refunds

Non-Refundable Trip: The trip is non-refundable once booked. This policy is strict and applies to all participants without exception.

No Partial Refunds: There will be no partial refunds for missed days, early departures, choosing not to participate in aspects of the trip, or no-shows.

Trip Cancellation Policy

If we must cancel the trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as an act of God or severe weather, we will offer alternative dates for you to join a future trip. While no refunds will be provided, you will have the option to reschedule your participation at no additional cost. We recommend securing travel insurance to cover any additional costs or changes to your travel plans.

Deferrals

Deferrals Not Allowed: Deferrals to a future trip or postponement of your participation for any reason are not permitted. We encourage participants to plan accordingly and consider the commitment involved in joining this adventure.

Transfer to Another Person

Transfer Option: You may transfer your trip to another person, provided you notify us in writing at least 30 days before the trip. The person taking your place must agree to the same terms and conditions, including accommodations and meal arrangements as initially booked.

Transfer Fees: A transfer fee of $100 will apply to process the transfer. All requests for transfers will be subject to availability and must comply with our registration guidelines. Only one transfer may be made per original registration. 

Health & Safety

Medical Needs: All participants are responsible for their own medical needs, including any necessary prescriptions. We advise you to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on the journey, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.

Participant Conduct & Safety Policy

For your safety and the success of the group experience, all participants are expected to follow the guidance and instructions provided by the trip leaders at all times.

Safety First
Deviating from the group or disregarding instructions—especially in situations involving navigation, timing, or meeting points—creates unnecessary risk and jeopardizes both your safety and the well-being of the group.

Connectivity Is Required
You must have reliable international cell service or an eSIM with consistent data access during the trip. This ensures you can receive updates and instructions throughout the day and contact your Event Director, Piper, if needed.

Non-Compliance Policy
Participants who blatantly disregard leader instructions or make independent decisions that create risk of injury or separation from the group may be subject to the following:

• Immediate removal from the trip without refund
• Exclusion from future trips

This policy exists to protect all travelers and ensure a safe, respectful, and smooth Camino experience for everyone.

Changes to Itinerary

We reserve the right to make necessary changes to the itinerary, including but not limited to accommodations, meals, and scheduled activities, as needed to ensure the safety of the group.

Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding this policy or to notify us of a cancellation or transfer, please contact:

Piper Ruiz - Email: Hello@PiperRuiz.com