#108 | The Great Guatemala Volcano Trek: Standing Before Volcán de Acatenango and the Erupting Fuego Volcano with the Just Trek Crew
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This episode of the Just Trek Podcast chronicles host Justin Just Rock Ramone's first international trek expedition to Guatemala, a challenging two-day, one-night volcano hike up Volcán de Acatenango to witness the eruptions of the active Volcán de Fuego. Joined by fellow Just Trek crew members—Machete Matt, MyoMai, EvieEverywhere, RubyOnDuty, and Tori—the journey begins in the colonial city of Antigua, surrounded by three towering volcanoes. After a pre-hike briefing with Ox Expeditions, the crew embarks on a grueling ascent through cloud forests, volcanic scree, and steep terrain, culminating in a breathtaking, surreal experience on Fuego Ridge at 12,350 feet. They endure dust storms, extreme altitude, and a chaotic night descent, ultimately choosing not to summit Acatenango at dawn to prioritize rest. The trip is capped with a whimsical visit to Hobbit Tenango, a Lord of the Rings-inspired mountain park, where the crew records a raw, emotional reflection on their shared adventure. The episode blends physical endurance, emotional vulnerability, and profound awe, celebrating the transformative power of travel and community in extreme environments.
Book through a reputable tour operator like Ox Expeditions for better access, safety, and logistics on high-altitude volcano treks.
Bring hiking poles, a face mask, and grippy shoes—essential for navigating dusty, steep volcanic terrain.
Altitude sickness is real; prepare with Dymox or similar medication and respect your body’s limits.
The Fuego Ridge experience is unforgettable, but visibility can be poor—stay patient and trust the process.
After a brutal trek, prioritize rest and recovery—sometimes skipping the summit is the most strategic move.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The Call of the Volcanoes: Antigua’s Ancient Energy
“Out here, the earth doesn't whisper, it roars.”
The Birth of a Dream: From LA Trails to Central America
Justin traces the origin of his volcano dream back to 2021, when he interviewed Volcano Vic, and rekindled the idea in 2025 through conversations with Luis from Vamos Hiking Crew. The spark ignites during a Simi Peak hike, where the crew decides on the spot to make the Guatemala trek a reality.
Day One: Arrival, Antigua, and the Pre-Hike Firestorm
The crew arrives in Guatemala City and travels to Antigua, where they explore the city, enjoy farm-to-table meals at Cabal Farms, and face a banking glitch. A packed pre-hike briefing at Ox Expeditions sets expectations for the grueling two-day trek, including gear rentals and route logistics.
The Ascent: Acatenango and the Fuego Ridge Sufferfest
“We watched the many explosions at first, then full lava rivers pouring down the mountain once night fell.”
The Decision: Skip the Summit, Embrace the Moment
“After that once-in-a-lifetime volcanic eruption show, I already felt fulfilled.”
“Out here, the earth doesn't whisper, it roars.”
“Where else in the world can you witness something like that during dinner?”
“We watched the many explosions at first, then full lava rivers pouring down the mountain once night fell.”
Host
Guests
Volcán de Fuego
other
Volcán de Acatenango
other
Antigua
place
Ox Expeditions
other
Hobbit Tenango
other
Justin Just Rock Ramone
person
Machete Matt
person
Just Trek Podcast
media
EvieEverywhere
person
MyoMai
person
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