Quetzaltenango Tours: Top 5 Sightseeing Spots & Cruise Gems

Quetzaltenango, also often called Xela, sits like right in the center of Guatemala’s western highlands, offering, like, a great jumping-off spot for checking out the area’s natural wonders and cultural sights. You’ve got these crazy-amazing volcanoes, neat little towns, and super-interesting Mayan history all around, so it’s almost like, if you’re thinking about a trip here, you’re in for a good time. I will walk you through some of the cool tours and sights you shouldn’t miss, filled with tips that might just come in handy. Keep reading, and by the end, you might have figured out the absolute best stuff to check out on your Xela adventure!

1. Climbing Volcán Santa María: A Hike Above the Clouds

Want something that’s, like, a little active? Climbing Volcán Santa María is a pretty memorable way of, just a little, taking in the views, you know? The climb, though, well, the climb could be, you know, kind of hard; so, you almost want to be somewhat in good shape. You’re probably talking a full day type situation, but from up top you get to see Santiaguito, this smaller volcano, puffing away. Watching it erupt is actually quite cool! Local guides often take you up, telling you neat stuff about the area’s stories and all. Basically, be prepared for varied climates– it’s going to be a workout, still worth the views.

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2. Lago de Atitlán Day Trip: Mayan Culture & Lakeside Views

You should swing by Lake Atitlán while you are visiting Quetzaltenango. Is that it has super cool shore towns? It is surrounded by volcanoes which are, actually, just beautiful. Panajachel can be a really neat spot to start, then it may be useful, too it’s almost like hopping on boats over to places such as San Juan la Laguna or Santiago Atitlán, alright? In San Juan, that; you may want to see how people create with natural dyes. In Santiago, there could be Maximon, that folk saint. That’s where local customs actually show themselves as just fascinating. It is a longer trip, still definitely worthwhile!

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3. Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs: Relax in a Cloud Forest

How about you just took it a bit easy over at Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs. It sits within a, like, cloud forest, okay? Which, of course, is right outside Xela. These are hot springs coming just from Volcán Zunil and they have been setup right into the hills, very much. It’s quite pleasing and has a jungle atmosphere. It seems very pleasant after all of this journey. Or even after that volcano summit attempt. Bring insect repellent so it isn’t really frustrating.

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4. Quetzaltenango City Tour: Discover Local Culture

Okay so, spending some hours in Quetzaltenango itself is worth that try, in some respects? This city’s got all sorts of neat older buildings along that main square, too it’s almost like. Visit that cathedral, right, walk on the streets, and you might be seeing those buildings. Now and then that’s a fantastic chance in visiting local cafes; checking food around is super. Look; Quetzaltenango keeps stories coming in. Local tours usually know that background!

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5. Zunil Market and Almolonga: A Colorful Market Experience

How’s that, to get away a bit a real and see local trade places going for sure. Okay so, at Zunil Market it feels amazing just from the colors or their textiles or its general daily trade vibe, yet it is worth the adventure of it. Now and then; there’s Almolonga and, yes, I heard there is fruit too? A lot too. The place comes for that vegetable harvest, too. Don’t get shocked. If you may want to picture Guatemalan everyday. See what sells very, you know?

Read our full review: Zunil Market and Almolonga Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Discover Local Markets)