By Embark Exploration Co.
Team Fox Conquers Guatemala’s 3-Volcano Challenge: A Week of Grit, Heart, and More than 10,000 Feet of Elevation
This past week, an extraordinary group of adventurers from Team Fox, the grassroots fundraising community of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, laced up their boots in Antigua, Guatemala and took on one of Embark Exploration Co.’s most inspiring journeys: the 3-Volcano Challenge.
Over 7 days and 6 nights, our team climbed Pacaya, Acatenango, and Atitlán, tackling more than 10,000 cumulative feet of elevation gain, exploring ancient landscapes, and pushing themselves in ways many never imagined possible. Some participants were individuals living with Parkinson’s; others were their family members, supporters, and loved ones who walked every step in solidarity. Every person on this team came with purpose, grit, and a deep commitment to bringing us closer to a world without Parkinson’s.
A Journey Rooted in Beauty and Strength
The adventure began in the colorful colonial streets of Antigua, Guatemala’s cultural gem and the home base for our week of exploration. Towering volcanic peaks rise over its cobblestone streets, creating the perfect backdrop for what was to come.
Volcano #1: Pacaya – Lava Fields & Fire-Roasted Pizza
Our first ascent led us up Pacaya, one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes. The group wound past the small villages and rolling foothills before reaching the otherworldly black lava fields near the summit, where we enjoyed the now-famous lava-rock-baked pizza—a well-earned treat after our first climb.
Volcano #2: Acatenango – Camping Beside an Erupting Giant
The next challenge was the mighty Acatenango, rising over 13,000 feet. Team Fox pushed through cloud forests, farmland, and high-altitude volcanic slopes to reach camp, where a breathtaking sight awaited: Volcán Fuego, erupting in the distance, throwing fiery plumes into the night sky.
Few experiences are as humbling—and electrifying—as watching molten lava from your campsite under a blanket of stars
The following morning, the team made a steep final push to the summit. With sweeping views stretching all the way to Mexico, everyone stood triumphantly above the clouds, proving once again the power of persistence, community, and belief.
Volcano #3: Atitlán – The Grand Finale
From Antigua, we traveled to stunning Lake Atitlán, an ancient volcanic caldera surrounded by traditional Mayan villages and steep green ridgelines. The final climb—Volcán Atitlán—was our toughest: 5,000+ feet of ascent, a direct climb through jungle and volcanic scree, and a summit that demanded everything our team had left.
At the top, overlooking the lake shimmering far below, every step of the journey felt worth it. This final victory was not only a physical accomplishment—it was a profound emotional one.
Walking for a Purpose Greater Than the Peaks
What makes Team Fox special is not just their endurance—but their why.
Many members of this group are directly affected by Parkinson’s disease. Some live with the diagnosis themselves; others carry the stories of parents, partners, or friends. Each mile, each breath at altitude, each challenging moment was dedicated to raising funds and awareness for Parkinson’s research and the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
On trails that required courage, teamwork, and vulnerability, this community showed what’s possible when people come together for something bigger than themselves.
A Celebration of Spirit, Hope & Adventure
Over the course of a week, Team Fox didn’t just climb three volcanoes—they formed new friendships, discovered new depths of resilience, and proved that adventure is for everyone.
This journey was full of:
- Laughter around campfires
- Early-morning headlamp starts
- Sunrises over the volcanic arc
- Hard climbs and joyful summits
- Moments of quiet reflection and moments of loud celebration
- And plenty of incredible memories we can’t wait to share through photos.
Thank You, Team Fox
To every participant—those living with Parkinson’s, their supporters, their families, and every person who said “yes” when their heart told them this challenge mattered—thank you. Your determination inspires us. Your impact extends far beyond these mountains. And your steps help push science, treatment, and hope forward.
Here’s to the next adventure, the next summit, and the next big milestone in the fight against Parkinson’s.
