Experience one of the world’s densest volcanic regions.

Expeditions on the Santa María volcanic complex and other volcanoes across Guatemala. Watch eruptions at night, camp on remote viewpoints, and hike above the clouds at sunrise.

Calendar View Hikes

Book in 3 steps Pick a hike → Choose a date → Secure with a small deposit

Built on the volcanoes Built from a genuine passion for Guatemala’s volcanoes and years spent exploring them.

OUR BASE We operate from Xela, giving easy access to Santa María, Cerro Quemado, Siete Orejas and all the volcanoes of western Guatemala.

What we include Round trip transportation, guides, meals, first aid kit, professional photography, and most gear included.

Languages We offer tours in English and Spanish, with French also usually available on request.

The name “Gagxanul”

Gagxanul Tours takes its name from the original K’iche’ name for Santa María Volcano: “Gagxanul,” meaning “naked volcano.” We absolutely love this volcano and it inspired the creation of our company.

Hikes

These are the main hikes you can book with us. You can also check our calendar for hikes that sometimes aren’t on our main list.

Due to the rainy season and increased lightning risk, camping expeditions are mostly paused, but can still be arranged on request during good weather periods. Most tours now start at night or very early morning to maximize chances of clear views and visible lava.

El Pikacho

2 AM start recommended

Moderately difficult ascent to a private lookout directly above the active dome of the Santa María volcanic complex. Eruptions every 15–60 minutes and sunrise with an incredible view of the volcanic highlands and Pacific coast.

Santa María Summit

12 AM start recommended

The classic Xela volcano hike. Climb to 3,772 m above sea level with views of 16+ volcanoes, sunrise over the volcanic highlands, and a direct look down at the active dome.

Santa María volcanic complex mirador view

Santa María Eruption Mirador

2:30 AM start recommended

A secluded, safe viewpoint with direct views of activity within the Santa María volcanic complex. Ideal for photography, with a lower-difficulty hike.

Volcán Cerro Quemado

2 AM start reccomended

A rugged hike through massive old lava blocks, pine forest, caves, steam vents, and summit views over Xela, Almolonga, Santa María, Zunil, and the volcanic highlands.

Custom Expedition

Flexible

Ask us about any hike on any of Guatemala’s 37 volcanoes, and we’ll do our best to make the adventure happen for you.

Views from the trails

A small preview from our routes: eruptions, night ascents, summits, camps, and quiet trail moments. The full gallery has many more photos from across our volcano hikes.