By Michele Alperin
A at 4220 meters, Tajumulco volcano is the highest peak in both Guatemala and
Central America. The mountaintop views on a clear day extend from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, and include several volcanoes and Lake Atitlan.
Geography
Situated in the western Guatemala Highlands, Tajumulco is part of the Sierra Madre de Chiapas range, reaching from the Mexican state of Chiapas into Guatemala. It is in the state of St. Marcos.
Features
According to Shelagh McNally's Guatemala, the volcano has two separate peaks. The tallest is 4,220 meters with a 160-foot wide crater at the top. The lower peak is 4,100 meters.
Hiking
Although the climb is relatively easy, hikers may experience altitude sickness due to the high elevation and should not hike alone. Quetzaltrekkers in Quetzaltenango offers a two-day climb with a guide, and estimates suggest that the ascent takes about five hours and the descent three. Hikers should bring along hiking boots; very warm clothing, including a hat and gloves; sunscreen; rain gear; a headlamp; and a backpack.
Misconceptions
According to the Global Volcanism Program of the American Museum of Natural History, reports of historical eruptions are unconfirmed. A report that the volcano ejected rocks and destroyed houses on October 24, 1765, may have incorrectly deemed a rock avalanche to be an eruption.
Fun Fact
The 1986 book "Americas" notes that around the turn of the 20th century, geologist Karl Sapper found vessels and offerings surrounding the volcano left by the Mam Indians as gifts to their gods.
Resources
About the Author:
Michele Alperin is a freelance writer with more than 10 years' experience. She specializes in business, arts and Judaism, and her work has appeared in a variety of print and online publications, including MyJewishLearning.com, "U.S.1," "Princeton Packet," "Jewish State" and "Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles." She has master's degrees in business and Jewish education.
