Rock Climbing
Guatemala
Amatitlan
Amatitlan Guidebook
ock climbing guatemala amatitlan the best place to climb in central america

Introduction
Welcome to rock climbing Guatemala Amatitlan, the most developed rock climbing area in Central America, with 126 sport climbing routes up to 35 meters high.
Table of contents
Here’s a sneak peek!
Discover rock climbing at the Peñón of Amatitlan and climb like a local in the most developed crag of Guatemala and Central America.
Rock Climbing Guatemala Amatitlan is located approximately 1 hour from the capital city, right in front of Lake Amatitlán, one of the most iconic points of this city.
Public Transportation
From Guatemala City use the Transmetro, taking the route to the Centra-Sur station where you should get off and walk to the bus station to take the bus to Amatitlan. Ask the driver to drop you off at the stop where the soccer fields are located very close to the Lake Amatitlan pier. From there you can walk 20 minutes to the Peñón in the direction of the Lake's pier. When you are at the pier you should walk along the lake to the left. Passing the Rowing Federation you will see the Peñon. You can also take a "tuc tuc" motorcycle cab that will take you in 5 minutes to the entrance.
Vehicle
El Peñón de Amatitlan is located 27 kilometers from the capital city taking Calzada Aguilar Batres towards Escuintla or "El Puerto". Passing Villanueva before reaching the city of Amatitlan, you must turn around the traffic circle that will take you back towards the city, where you must cross to the right on the old road that leads to Lake Amatitlan. When you arrive at the Lake's pier, you must cross to the left and pass the Rowing Federation.
If you are in Antigua Guatemala we recommend using Uber or a cab to get to the Rock, since the arrival by public transport is not very accessible. You can put in Waze the location "Belay Partners Hostal".
Peñón of Amatitlan is a giant formation of water-cooled basalt volcanic rock, where you will find 126 sport climbing routes, with sport routes up to 35 meters and some multi-pitch routes. In the Peñón you will find routes developed for all levels, from 5.7 to the most difficult route in the area: 7c+ "Maximón".
Access to the crag
There are two ways to enter the climbing area at the Peñón: The "tienda" which is located on the left side just below the Peñón and the access by the old road. At the store you can park your vehicle and access through a trail, paying a fee for the entrance and for leaving the vehicle.
The old road is a few meters before the store, guided by the tower of the old cable car. This access is free, but the trail is not as accessible and you must leave your vehicle unattended.
A 70-meter rope is necessary for the longer routes and 20 quickdraws. Do not forget to wear a helmet and tie a knot at the end of the rope. There are some routes that you can do in trad if you bring equipment.
Recommendations
Bring enough water, sunglasses, sunscreen and cool clothes. The sun can be very intense almost all year round. In the rainy season there are usually many mosquitoes, bring repellent.
Dangers
Rock climbing is a high-risk sport that can lead to serious injuries and even death. In order to access the climbing routes the following is necessary: Specialized equipment in good condition for rock climbing.
Knowledge of belaying, anchors, knots and rappel of some of the people visiting the area.
Helmet and belay equipment.
Beware of scorpions, bees on some routes and "chichicaste", a plant that causes burning skin and redness.
If you notice anything suspicious, do not hesitate to tell another person in the area or call the police.
Fire Department: 123 or 122
National Civil Police: 110
Tourist Assistance: 1500
Amatitlan is a very colorful and lively city, especially the area of the pier on the lake, an iconic place of this city. If you want to take a day off and get to know the city we recommend these places:
- Visit the pier and take a boat ride.
- Eating elotes locos (corn on the cob)
- Buy typical sweets and handicrafts
- Take a walk in the United Nations National Park
- Visit recreational centers with swimming pool, spa and hot springs such as "Santa Teresita Spa" or "Rocarena" on the other side of the lake.
Climate
Amatitlán has a dry tropical climate in the summer months (March-June) and humid (June-October) in the winter months, with temperatures between 26º to 30º degrees Celsius.
In El Peñón there are 6 climbing sectors, each one has a certain number of routes for all levels. If you want more information about each of the routes, their grades and recommendations we invite you to buy our guide to the Peñón where you will find all the information you need to enjoy climbing in the area.
View more buying the guide!
$4
Constant updating of new routes and changes in the crag!
Peñon of Amatitlán Climbing Guide (SPANISH)

Buy your Amatitlán Climbing Guidebook (Spanish)
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