Agua Volcano Hunapú
I was invited many times to climb this volcano known as “Agua” or “Water Volcano”. I read somewhere it is one of nature best pieces of art being its shape almost perfect. I thought it was just a touristic exaggeration but lucky me: I was wrong.This beauty is real. The name “Water Volcano” or “Volcan de Agua” is because in time of the Spanish Colonization the constant rain caused a flood which destroyed most of the city of Antigua Guatemala. But those days, it was the main city of Guatemala “Santiago de los Caballeros”.
So, obviously a volcano doesn’t “erupt water”, but the amount of water coming from this one gave it the name it keeps to this days. When you climb it you can see the traces left by the amount of water coming down.
So I finally accepted (but that’s another story), what you see here is the view of the volcano from the summit of Acatenango, the great Acatenango!. From here I was able to see the amazing shape and magnificence of the Hunapú.
Want to climb the great Hunapú?
This volcano is located near La Antigua Guatemala. From this city, go directly to “Santa María de Jesús”, right next to the market and church is where you sign a book before beginning the ascent. They suppose to keep a record of how many people visit the volcano, and also, for security reasons… from time to time adventurous tourist go alone and get lost… so this way they know when is been too long since somebody signed the book… and they go to the rescue.Anyway, the ascent is pretty easy if you are in general good physical condition. I was invited by some local friends who go there every year as a personal tradition.
If you want a tour you can request it at one of the many many tour agencies located in La Antigua. There is at least one on every block.
BTW, Hunapú is the name of one of the main characters of the Popol Vuh. This traditional book compared or referred to as the “bible of the mayas” begins with the creation of life, giving birth to Hunapú and Ixbalanqué (brothers). Gosh, the view from Acatenango is just amazing.
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Among the beautiful places to visit near Guatemala City, Lake Amatitlán is the biggest lake. It was a few years ago almost the identical brother of Lake Atitlán. So far, the pollution and industrial waste coming from the “modern growing city” show the impact on its waters.
So you want to visit Tikal on your own? driving? excellent!! Renting a car or taking your own car on a trip from Guatemala City to Tikal is a great way to see the places around and visit several destinations keeping a low budget, better if you stay on cheap hotels or if you camp around.
This was a very hot day on a travel to Tikal. The sun was not “heating” the air, it was punishing us!. This is one of the most hot summers I can remember (global warming?)
Hunapu Volcano (Agua Volcano)Climbing a volcano is always better in the early morning. This way not only you avoid the heat of the midday sun, you also get the best of the day: clear sky and amazing view.
People ask me all the time what’s the best way to get to Tikal from Guatemala City. If you have zero budget problems you can take a flight early in the morning (6:00-7:30).