On Dec 29, I hiked up Volcan Acatenango, just outside out Antigua, Guatemala. I asked around, and the general consensus was that hiking solo, especially as a woman, was not recommended. For this trip I went with OX Expeditions, which was a fine tour company, but Old Town Outfitters (the company that took us up Pacaya) remains my favorite. Regardless, it was a fun day, and I surprised myself by having a great time hiking with a relatively large group of approx 10 people.
My Suunto watch says it was 8 miles round trip and 6100 ft of elevation gain – a stout hike for sure, especially since we started at an altitude of 7000 ft and ascended to just over 13,000 ft. While Acatenango is definitely not family-friendly like Pacaya, it is certainly achievable as a day hike if you’re willing to do a bit of slogging and have a little Type 2 fun.
Evergreen Endurance Coaching 
Very cool, Jessica. Nice work on the clean up. I’m sure it made a difference.
No female solo? Danger, or sexism, or a chance for locals to make some cash by guiding?
Probably a little of all three… and I’m ok with that. 🙂