FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What makes Pachamama Tours unique?
We started as a non-profit in 2012, supporting women and children in Guatemala. In 2021, Pachamama Tours was created to fund this mission through guided volcano hikes and adventures. Every tour you take directly contributes to these community programs.
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What is included?
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Round-trip transportation
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Private Guide
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3 meals - including a vegetarian option
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Camping equipment
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Gloves, Jacket, Beanie, Walking Stick (artisanal)
What should I bring on the Acatenango hike?
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3-4L of water​
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Extra snacks
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Warm clothes
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Hiking shoes
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Sunscreen
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Medium backpack
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Toilet paper
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What's on the menu?
Chicken with fried rice and vegetables, cheesy red pasta and pancakes.​
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What level of fitness do I need?
The Acatenango hike is challenging, but the hiking pace is always adjusted to match the group’s fitness level. Guides stay close so no one is left behind, even on the steep sections. If you’re searching how hard the Acatenango hike is, the reality is that it requires good physical condition and isn’t recommended for anyone with asthma or heart issues. If you’re unsure about completing a strenuous volcano hike, our Acatenango 4x4 tours offer the same epic views with far less physical effort.
Can I reschedule my booking?
Yes, within one year of your original booking at no additional cost
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Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes, to confirm your booking, you will need to pay a 50% deposit
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Can I cancel my booking?
Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours prior to the tour to receive a partial refund, excluding the deposit mentioned earlier. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the tour are non-refundable.
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What happens if I don't finish the hike?
Once the hike begins, the fee is non-refundable, regardless of completion.
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What if the weather worsens during the hike?
If the weather worsens during your Acatenango hike, the lead guide will decide whether the tour can continue. Acatenango weather is unpredictable, especially near the summit, and safety always comes first. If the Acatenango tour is cancelled due to adverse weather conditions, no refunds are issued since sudden weather changes are a known part of the Acatenango volcano experience. This policy helps keep all hikers safe in rapidly changing mountain weather.
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Rules & Guidlines
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Sign the Liability Form:
Please make sure to sign the liability form for your safety and ours.
Guide's Discretion:
Our skilled guides will assess who is ready for the additional Fuego Volcano hike. It’s important to follow their instructions to ensure everyone's safety.
Weather Considerations:
Our guides will determine if the hike can proceed based on the current weather conditions.
Flexible Scheduling:
Depending on the weather, our guides might suggest doing the Fuego hike in the morning instead of the Acatenango summit (sunrise hike). The Acatenango summit hike is included in your tour price, but the Fuego hike will have an extra charge, regardless of when it's done.
Mandatory Guide Requirement:
For your safety, you must have a guide to do this hike. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
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Health Notice:
For those with asthma or heart conditions, this hike is not recommended due to the strenuous nature of the activity.
Mandatory Fee:
The hike fee is applied uniformly, regardless of visibility conditions or whether the hike is completed.
Snack Requirement:
Participants must bring their own high-calorie snack (500+ calories), as this is not provided by the tour.
Fixed Pace:
The hiking pace is adjusted based on the group’s abilities. While the pace may vary, rest assured that a guide will always be nearby to ensure no one is left behind.
No Refunds:
Once the hike begins, the fee is non-refundable, regardless of completion.