What is the highest altitude you go to on your treks?
The highest point we reach is 4,222m (13,974 feet), which is also the highest point in Central America, located  at the peak of Tajumulco.

Are your treks hard?
None of our treks are easy. How difficult the treks are will depend on fitness level, ability to cope with altitude, previous hiking experience, etc.

What if I don´t have all my own equipment?
Quetzaltrekkers has a supply of donated gear including sleeping mats, sleeping bags, stuff sacks, tents, tarps, backpacks, socks, hats, gloves, and more to supplement anything you may be missing.  As all of our equipment is donated to us, the quality of the equipment can vary greatly between items. Equipment rental is included in the cost of the trek.

Can a big enough group of people leave on a trek on a different day from the ones in the calendar?
Possibly.  It depends on the availability of guides and equipment, whether it is high or low season, and a number of other factors.  Each request is considered independently, and it is best to contact the Quetzaltrekkers office either by e-mail or phone, which can be done here.

Can I leave spare bags and/or valuables with you while I am on a trek?
Yes. Spare bags can be left in our office while you are out on a trek, and valuables such as passports, ATM cards, etc. can be left in our safe.

Is there a minimum age to participate in a trek?
All participants in our treks must be at least 13 years old.  No exceptions. 

Are the volcanoes you trek on active?
No. Tajumulco and Santa Maria are dormant volcanoes that have not had any significant activity for decades (or centuries).

Do I have to carry my own pack?
Yes, clients are required to carry their own packs. In the case of an emergency, guides can carry a client's equipment. We do not offer a porter or pony service.

What happens to the profits from the Fair Trade Shop?
The profits from sales of peanut butter, trail mix, t-shirts, postcards, etc. are pooled with trek profits and donated to EDELAC.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, a number of our clients are vegetarians or vegans and our food is prepared accordingly.

How long in advance should I reserve a space for a trek?
Your spot will be reserved once we receive either a Q50 cash deposit or a $10 online deposit, preferably prior to 11am the day before the trek. It may be possible to reserve a space after this time but a Q50 late fee may be applied. We recommend signing up no more than a month in advance for our regular treks.

Do you take phone or email reservations?
We can take note that you are interested, but your spot will not be guaranteed until we receive either the cash or online deposit. 

Do you still go if it is raining?
Our treks run rain or shine. We plan for the worst weather and hope for the best.

Do the Quetzaltrekkers volunteers get paid?
No. All profits from treks go directly to the causes Quetzaltrekkers supports.  No trek money is given to the guides as payment for their time and effort. Volunteers cover their own personal living expenses through their own savings and tips (which are always appreciated). We´re all here for the kids.