Volcán Ipala
Volcano Volcano with dramatic crater lake, Laguna de Ipala
A volcano with a summit crater lake (Laguna de Ipala) in eastern Guatemala; hikers climb to the rim for the lake, local scenery and nearby rural towns.
How to Get to Volcán Ipala #
Ipala town is the usual base. From Tecún Umán or Guatemala City, take a regional bus toward Chiquimula and transfer to local colectivos or buses that serve Ipala. From the center of Ipala, local transport or a short taxi will bring visitors to the trailhead (rough dirt road and signposts are minimal). The hike to the rim and down to the lake takes roughly 45-90 minutes depending on fitness.
Tips for Visiting Volcán Ipala #
- Hire a local guide from the village of Ipala to lead the 45-60 minute hike to the crater rim - locals know the safest routes and stories about the lake.
- Arrive at sunrise if the goal is to see the crater lake's colors change; midday winds can whip the surface and kick up insects.
- There is a steep descent to the lake; wear sturdy shoes. Swimming is possible but water can be cold and has no lifeguards.
Best Time to Visit Volcán Ipala #
Best during the dry season (Nov-Apr) when trails are firm and the crater lake is most photogenic.
Weather & Climate near Volcán Ipala #
Volcán Ipala's climate is classified as Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) - Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 13°C to 27°C. Abundant rainfall (1499 mm/year), wettest in June with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. The driest month with just 10 mm.
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February
February is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (154 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 16°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (289 mm).
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July
July is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (257 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (220 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (272 mm).
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October
October is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (164 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Light rainfall.
