3 Days Itinerary in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala - Travel Guide
Quetzaltenango Quest: A Three-Day Adventure in the Guatemalan Heartland
| Days | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Day 1 - Stepping into the heartbeat of Guatemala |
| 2 | Day 2 - Embracing the ancient and divine |
| 3 | Day 3 - Revelling in natural beauty |
Introduction
Join us on a thrilling three-day expedition to Quetzaltenango, fondly known as Xela, the quaint yet vibrant city in the Western Highlands of Guatemala! We'll apprehend astounding pre-colonial history, meander through bustling markets, glimpse into thriving traditions, and sample an exquisite palette of Guatemalan flavors.
Day 1 - Stepping into the heartbeat of Guatemala
Our journey in Quetzaltenango starts in the city's heart - the Central Park. Surrounded by a fusion of neoclassical and indo-hispanic-style buildings, the park's fountain is a welcome delight. Don't forget to capture the iconic Quetzaltenango City Hall with its eclectic architectural style. Next up, we get a glimpse of Latin American art at the Museo Ixkik'. Post-lunch, we have the Templo de Minerva in our sights, the beautiful Greek-influenced ruins. The day ends at the vibrant Zunil market where you can immerse yourself in local hustle and bustle and maybe pick up some unique souvenirs.
Day 2 - Embracing the ancient and divine
Kick off your day with an energizing Guatemalan breakfast, because we have an adventurous day ahead. Our first stop is the mystical Laguna Chicabal, a lake located inside a crater surrounded by lush forest. Remember, it's sacred to the Mam Mayan people, so swimming isn't allowed. After a short hike down, enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake. In the afternoon, we'll head to San Andrés Xecul to marvel at its colorful church, which seems straight out of a dreamy palette, showcasing an ideal blend of Catholic and Mayan influences. We'll round off the day with a relaxing soak in the Fuentes Georginas, natural hot springs nestled in the mountains. Doesn't it sound like paradise?
Day 3 - Revelling in natural beauty
On our final day, we'll make an early move towards Santa María Volcano. While we won't ascend it, just standing at the base makes you appreciate the sheer power of nature. After taking in splendid views, our last stop is the charming town of Salamá. Here we'll tour a local coffee plantation, relishing the process 'from bean to cup'. The experience gets even better, with a freshly brewed coffee cup in your hand, you'll be looking at an unforgettable sunset over the Guatemalan Highlands. The perfect end to an amazing journey, don't you agree?
Joseph Mitchell
FAQs about this
3 day itinerary in
Quetzaltenango
The best time to visit Quetzaltenango is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is more predictable and outdoor activities are easier to plan.
The official currency used in Guatemala, including Quetzaltenango, is the Guatemalan Quetzal.
It's advisable to drink bottled water throughout your stay in Guatemala, including Quetzaltenango, to avoid any potential health risks.