Acatenango and Fuego: Twin Volcanoes and Ash Crossing

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This extreme 7-day itinerary concentrates the most intense volcanic experience in Central America: the ascent of Acatenango (3,976 m) with camping facing erupting Fuego, followed by the traverse to the crater of Fuego Volcano (3,763 m) crossing an ash field and recent pyroclastic flows. The first days are dedicated to acclimatization in Antigua with preparatory ascents of Pacaya, then comes Acatenango with a night in a tent at 3,800 m watching Strombolian eruptions. At dawn, cross to Fuego via the saddle between both volcanoes. The danger is real: sulfurous gases, unpredictable pyroclastic flows, hypothermia above 3,500 m, and unstable terrain. This is not a tourist trek: the traverse to Fuego is done only with experienced guides and on days of low activity.