Finca El Pilar Nature Reserve
A nature reserve near Antigua offering refreshing pools and a challenging hike through lush greenery with unique staircases.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Finca El Pilar Nature Reserve
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A nature reserve near Antigua offering refreshing pools and a challenging hike through lush greenery with unique staircases.
"It's a strange place, but for certain kinds of person it's worth the fifteen minute Uber from Antigua town centre."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uphill paths! Good walking shoes are a must for exploring Finca El Pilar.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the hike. You'll need it for the uphill climbs and stair sections.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Refreshing Pools
Lower section of the reserve
Escape the Guatemalan heat in these well-maintained, albeit chilly, pools. A perfect spot to relax after exploring.
The Grand Staircase Hike
Main trail to viewpoints
Challenge yourself on the extensive stairways leading to rewarding vistas. It's a good workout with lush surroundings.
Lush Vegetation and Gardens
Throughout the reserve
Wander through a verdant paradise filled with diverse plants and unique flora. Photographers will find plenty of inspiration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Prepare for the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uphill paths! Good walking shoes are a must for exploring Finca El Pilar.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the hike. You'll need it for the uphill climbs and stair sections.
🏊♀️ Pools Can Be Cold!
The pools are lovely but often quite chilly, especially in the morning.
📸 Great for Photographers
Interesting walkways, bridges, and staircases offer unique photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and uphill paths! Good walking shoes are a must for exploring Finca El Pilar.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the hike. You'll need it for the uphill climbs and stair sections.
🏊♀️ Pools Can Be Cold!
The pools are lovely but often quite chilly, especially in the morning.
📸 Great for Photographers
Interesting walkways, bridges, and staircases offer unique photo opportunities.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect to pay around Q25-Q65 GTQ per person for entry to the pools or trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Finca El Pilar to be a unique destination with refreshing, albeit cold, pools and a challenging hike featuring many stairs. While some appreciate the lush vegetation and photographic opportunities, others note the expense and the strenuous nature of the main trail. It's a place that appeals to specific interests, from keen swimmers to dedicated walkers and nature lovers.
"I enjoyed it here but the hike from the pool area to the bottom of the big hike (cerro del c something) is 2 miles up and veryyyy stair heavy as well as that there aren’t really any good lookouts. The way down on the road had better lookouts so just know that if you’re looking for taking pictures or some sort of reward at the top. The pools were also sooo cold but it was 10AM.. Overall had a good time but just note these things when you go."
grace
"Fairly easy hike - well maintained path, short but a bit of uphill. Beautiful lush vegetation. It was a bit expensive though - 65 GTQ per person (sendero)"
Guy Arie
"Only been to the pools here. All the pools and facilities here are well looked after and it’s only Q25 to enter. It’s lovely in the mornings. Easily walkable back to the centre too."
Hope O'Grady
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finca El Pilar is a short Uber or taxi ride (about 15 minutes) from Antigua Guatemala. You can also arrange transport with local drivers.
While not directly served by public buses, you can take a local bus towards the general area and then a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride to the reserve.
Uber or a private taxi is generally the most convenient and quickest way to reach Finca El Pilar from Antigua.
It's a bit of a walk, around 2 miles, and can be uphill. While doable, it's more comfortable to take transport.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors who drive to the reserve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees vary. Expect to pay around Q25 GTQ for pool access and potentially up to Q65 GTQ for trail access.
No, advance booking is generally not required. You can pay your entrance fee upon arrival.
Finca El Pilar is typically open in the mornings, with specific hours for pool access and trails. It's best to check locally or arrive early.
Yes, there are often separate fees for accessing the pools versus exploring the hiking trails.
Yes, children can enjoy the pools and the nature trails, though the main hike can be challenging for very young ones.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the pools, hike the trails with many stairs, explore the lush gardens, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The main hike involves many stairs and uphill sections, which can be challenging. It's rated above moderate by some visitors.
Yes, the hike leads to viewpoints, though some reviewers suggest the road down offers better photo opportunities than the very top.
Mornings are recommended for cooler temperatures and fewer people.
Absolutely! The unique walkways, bridges, staircases, and lush greenery make it a great spot for photographers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While some reviews mention amenities, it's not explicitly stated if there's a full restaurant. It's advisable to bring snacks or check locally.
Picnics are often allowed in natural reserves. It's a good idea to confirm this upon arrival or check their policies.
Antigua Guatemala itself has a wide array of dining options just a short drive away.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Adventurers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Finca El Pilar Experience: Pools and Trails
The main attraction for active visitors is the network of trails, which are characterized by numerous stairs and uphill climbs. While some find the hike to be a rewarding workout with beautiful lush vegetation, others note that it can be quite strenuous and recommend good physical condition. The views from the top are appreciated, though some suggest the descent along the road might offer better photographic vantage points.
This unique combination makes Finca El Pilar appealing to different types of visitors, from those seeking a leisurely swim to those looking for a more adventurous trek through nature. The reserve's distinct character has led some to describe it as a 'strange place' but worthwhile for its specific offerings.
Photography Opportunities at Finca El Pilar
Beyond the architectural elements, the lush and diverse plant life offers ample opportunities for macro photography or capturing the vibrant colors of the jungle. The natural quarry scarring the hillside, while perhaps not conventionally beautiful, can also be an interesting subject for those drawn to industrial or raw landscapes. The overall atmosphere of the reserve, with its blend of constructed elements and wild nature, provides a rich environment for creative exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit