Cerro Quemado (Almolonga Volcano)
Cerro Quemado
A lava dome volcano group south of the city, where a half-day hike crosses lava terrain with views over Xela and Santa María volcano.
Cerro Quemado, meaning “burnt hill,” is a lava dome volcano south of the city. Its most recent eruption was in 1818, and its slopes are covered with black lava blocks and geothermal vents. The round-trip hike takes about 3–4 hours and offers views over the Quetzaltenango basin, along with a close look at Santa María volcano across the valley. You can also detour to the Los Vahos steam baths. The trails are hard to follow and remote, so it’s best to go with a guide or a group.
Opening hours
All day (daytime recommended)
Nearby sights
- Los Vahos
- Almolonga Market
- Casa de la Cultura & Natural History Museum
- Cathedral of the Holy Spirit
- Parque Centroamérica
- Cerro El Baúl
- Pasaje Enríquez
- Zunil