Quetzaltenango, often called Xela, offers an authentic Guatemalan experience, immersing visitors in its rich indigenous Mayan culture and colonial history. The city serves as an excellent base for active travelers, providing access to challenging volcano hikes and relaxing thermal hot springs, while also being a prominent destination for Spanish language immersion.
The central park, Parque Centro América, is a bustling hub for local life and a natural meeting point. For evening socialising, Pasaje Enríquez is a notable pedestrian street featuring cafes, shops, restaurants, and bars. The city's significant student population contributes to a lively atmosphere around the historical center with various cafes and cultural activities.
Top 8 Things to do in Quetzaltenango (Xela)
Activities in Quetzaltenango provide a rich immersion in local culture, opportunities for adventurous hikes, and relaxing experiences in natural thermal springs.
1. Hike Santa María Volcano
Embark on a challenging hike to the summit of Volcán Santa María, standing at 3,772 meters. This trek offers spectacular panoramic views of the Guatemalan Highlands and the chance to witness eruptions from its active smaller cone, Santiaguito, located below the main summit. It is a demanding but rewarding full-day adventure, ideal for experienced hikers.
Cost: A guided tour typically costs around $55 USD, which often includes private transport and a local guide. Some tours may cost around Q250 ($30 USD). Self-guided hiking is possible and free for park entry, but transportation to the trailhead would be a public bus (Q5) or Uber (around Q30).
Transport: Tours usually depart from Xela early in the morning, around 5:00 AM, with transport included. For self-serving, take a chicken bus from Minerva Terminal to Llano de Pinal (approx. Q5). An Uber to the trailhead is also an option (around Q30).
2. Relax at Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs
Unwind in the natural, sulfur-rich thermal pools of Fuentes Georginas, nestled within a lush cloud forest. These volcanic hot springs, heated by the Zunil volcano, offer a rejuvenating experience with stunning natural scenery. It is a perfect activity after a challenging hike.
Cost: The entrance fee for foreigners is approximately Q60. A half-day tour with transfers typically costs around $23 USD (minimum 2 people) to $35 USD.
Transport: Located about 30-45 minutes from Xela near Zunil. Tours often include hotel pickup and drop-off. Alternatively, take a chicken bus to Zunil, then a taxi or tuk-tuk up the mountain. A tuk-tuk might cost around Q50 for the ride from Zunil to the hot springs. Shuttles are also available for around Q25 per person for the return trip to Xela.
3. Learn Spanish at a Language School
Immerse yourself in the Spanish language by enrolling in one of Xela's reputable Spanish schools. Xela is known for its affordable and high-quality one-on-one instruction, offering a neutral accent that is easy to understand. Many schools provide cultural activities and homestay options, facilitating deeper cultural immersion.
Cost: Costs vary by school and program length. For example, 25 hours of one-on-one classes per week may cost around 1080Q (approximately $140 USD as of 2018 data, likely higher now). Homestay options are often available for an additional fee, around 400Q per week (approximately $50 USD). Some schools offer programs starting from $190.
Transport: Most Spanish schools are located within or near the city center, accessible by walking or a short local taxi/tuk-tuk ride.
4. Explore Parque Centro América and Historic Center
Stroll through Parque Centro América, the central park and bustling heart of Xela, where local life unfolds. Admire the colonial architecture, including the Quetzaltenango Cathedral and the city hall. Discover Pasaje Enríquez, a charming pedestrian street filled with cafes, shops, restaurants, and bars, perfect for evening socialising.
Cost: Free to explore. Costs for food, drinks, and shopping vary based on personal preference.
Transport: Centrally located and easily walkable from most accommodations in Xela.
5. Visit San Andrés Xecul's Iconic Yellow Church
Take a half-day trip to the nearby village of San Andrés Xecul to witness its vibrant and unique Catholic church. The church's facade is adorned with striking yellow, blue, and green colors, featuring intricate designs and symbolic motifs that blend indigenous Mayan and Christian influences. It's a visually stunning experience and offers insight into local syncretism.
Cost: The church itself is free to visit.
Transport: San Andrés Xecul is about 15 km from Xela. An Uber from Xela costs around Q50. A chicken bus ride from Xela to Salcajá costs around Q3, and from Salcajá, it's about an hour's walk to San Andrés Xecul or a short tuk-tuk ride (Q5) to Cuatro Caminos, where you can catch another chicken bus back to Xela (Q5).
6. Hike Chicabal Volcano and Sacred Crater Lake
Embark on a hike to Volcán Chicabal, which features a mystical crater lake considered sacred by the local Mayan communities. The ascent takes you through a cloud forest, leading to a serene and culturally significant natural wonder.
Cost: Tour costs for Chicabal Volcano and Lagoon are around $35-$45 USD. Entry fees to the site may be separate.
Transport: Accessible via tour from Xela, or by public transport. Tours often include transfers.
7. Experience Local Markets
Explore the bustling atmosphere of Xela's local markets, such as Mercado La Democracia or Minerva Terminal Market, to experience authentic Guatemalan daily life. While generally functional, these markets offer a wide variety of local produce, goods, and street food. For a larger experience, consider a day trip to the Chichicastenango Market, Central America's largest and oldest handicrafts market.
Cost: Free to browse. Costs for purchases vary.
Transport: Markets within Xela are generally accessible by walking or short local transport. Chichicastenango is about a two-hour chicken bus ride from Xela.
8. Visit Cerro El Baúl Viewpoint
Ascend Cerro El Baúl, a wooded hill offering expansive views across Xela's plain and the surrounding volcanoes. This spot is popular with locals for recreation, featuring concrete slides for fun and a monument to Tecún Umán, a significant Mayan leader.
Cost: Free to enter.
Transport: Accessible from downtown Xela on foot for a hike, or by vehicle. It is a short drive, taking about 25-30 minutes from the city center.
Check out our other pages on Quetzaltenango (Xela)
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