Hike Description

This challenging hike takes us to the summit of Siete Orejas, a massive, deeply eroded volcano that rises above the highlands near Quetzaltenango. Its name, “Seven Ears,” comes from the seven distinct peaks that form the mountain today. Long ago, Siete Orejas was a much larger volcano, likely towering well over 4,000 meters, before a massive collapse tore it open and exposed its inner structure. Its last eruption likely occurred around 80,000 years ago, and since then, erosion has continued to shape the multi-peaked mountain and its vast U-shaped valley.

We begin the hike in the village of San José Pachimacho, ascending through forested slopes. After about an hour and a half, we reach one of the most memorable spots of the journey. Here, we pause to watch the sunrise, enjoying breakfast and hot drinks as the sun illuminates the landscape and surrounding volcanoes like Santa Maria and Tajumulco. The early morning hours also bring abundant birdlife and other wildlife, making this an excellent spot for wildlife photographers, especially shortly after sunrise.

From the mirador, the trail continues along a mostly flat ridge with a gentle ascent for another hour and a half. Just before reaching the summit, we arrive at a final open viewpoint with a direct line of sight to the active Santiaguito lava dome complex, as well as dramatic views down sheer cliffs dropping nearly 1,000 meters into the valley below. From here, it is often possible to witness explosive eruptions and even pyroclastic flows.

A short final push brings us to the official summit at 3,370 meters, a forested high point marking the true top of the mountain. After spending some time taking in the views and atmosphere, we begin our descent, hiking about two hours back down to San José Pachimacho, where transport will be waiting to return us to Xela.

Early morning conditions are usually clear and stable, but weather in the mountains can change quickly, and visibility is not always guaranteed.

Schedule

What’s Included

• Professional, experienced guides
• Breakfast and hot drinks at the lookout
• Round-trip transportation from Xela
• Professional photographs of you and the views

What to Bring

Pre-dawn at 3,370 m is extremely cold, and wind can make it even worse. You’ll need:

• Warm jacket / winter coat
• Spare shirt to change out of sweat after the climb
• Gloves
• Backpack
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Hiking shoes or boots
• Water (2-3 litres)
• Rain jacket (rain is rare in the morning but possible)

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