Searching for things to do in Xela, Guatemala?
Few other parts of Guatemala can give you the same richness and ease of comfort as a tremendous trip to the wonderful Xela.
If looking for reasons to visit Guatemala, the richness of this location is easy to see, and it’s a bit of a haven for backpackers.
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Things to Do in Xela, Guatemala
I recommend that you take a bit of time in this town to get closer to rural life in Guatemala.
For anyone looking to take a trip to Xela, you should have a good idea of what you wish to do here.
Even for backpackers on the move. Anything less than a week here can feel like you have left some potential untapped.
Is Xela worth visiting?
Xela (which is short for the mouthful of Quetzaltenango) is situated in the highlands of Guatemala and is an increasingly popular area to visit.
Here you can hike Tajumulco Volcano, which is overall the highest peak in Central America, as well as watch eruptions from the very active Santiaguito Volcano.
Xela is also one of the best areas to see true Guatemalan life, and there’s no better place than the Minerva Terminal market.
Home to chaos and extremely low prices, get ready for an adventure!
If you do come to Xela, otherwise known as Quetzaltenango, prepare to make it last for around a week – it’s not named as one of most popular places in Guatemala for nothing!
Visiting Xela
Thankfully, you will be happy to know that there is much to do in this unique part of Guatemala.
So, what things to do are there in Xela, Guatemala for you?
Tajumulco Volcano
If you wish to conquer the highest peak in all of Central America, then you should do so via Tajumulco.
On this amazing tour you’ll find it’s an excellent trek, but make sure you are in a good physical condition: this is not for beginner hikers.
This is the highest peak in the whole region, and you will need a tour guide if you wish to do it safely.
Fuentes Georginas
Based just outside of Xela, this trip will see you take in some amazing natural hot springs.
Three in total, all of the various temperatures, will give you the chance to relax and to mingle with locals that you’ll meet while you’re here.
There are also some of the best coffee to drink here, but be prepared for some rather expensive food and refreshments; it’s better to eat before you come here, as smuggling food in is needlessly tough!
Volcano Tour
Yes, more volcanos! If you wish to take one of the volcano tours in this part of the world, you should definitely do so from Xela.
As one of the best things to do in the local area, you’ll get to see the local volcano and move across the country over a period of days.
It will often take you around 10-14 days to go and see all the major volcanoes, but it’s a trip that’s worth it.
I recommend inquiring about these longer trips once you arrive as they are much more involved than a simple day trip.
Carry out a volunteer session
Guatemala is a beautiful part of the world, but also a location with some serious social and economic issues.
If you wish to help out, one of the best things to do in Quetzaltenango is to take part in a volunteer session via the Entremundos.
This is a really interesting intermediary that helps to bring volunteers together with organizations that could use your help.
It’s great for helping those in Guatemala who you come across who need some help – of which there are many, sadly. Why not give back to the nation that has given you so much fun on your travels?
- Best Hostels in Antigua
- Backpacking Guatemala Guide
- Best Things to do in Guatemala
- Central America Guide
Quetzaltenango Experience
This takes in Xela and will give you a chance to find out more about the history of both Xela and the wider region.
Find out about the rich Mayan and Aztec history of parts of this region, and learn more about the enriching history of this mysterious but intriguing region.
Definitely a place to come for those who are looking for knowledge about a very particular place.
Where to Stay in Xela
You’ll find various types of accommodation in Xela. Everything from hostels to Airbnbs to homestays; which similar to Antigua, can be organized with a Spanish School.
You’ll find a great place to stay at Casa Xelaju as it’s a Spanish school, which offers apartments to rent.
It’s just a five-minute walk from the center, and you’ll find clean apartments with good showers and well-equipped kitchens.
The best thing is the price which you’ll find very competitive when compared to hostels and hotels in the area.
Three reasons to use AirBnb
- Get to know local people
- Gain an authentic experience of living
- Have private space to think/work
If you use Hostels, here are three reasons to use a hostel in Xela.
Hostels can be a good choice in any place if you want to connect with other travelers or if doing solo travel in Guatemala.
- Connect with other travellers
- Look for local activities that are unique to tourists
- To practice living on a budget
If you’re doing solo travel, I recommend using all 3 methods for the most rewarding and authentic experience while traveling in Guatemala.
Where to Eat in Xela
When you arrive in Xela, you’ll see many restaurants and comedores, many of which offer the same types of food.
There are many that are targeted at backpackers and travelers. Don’t get roped in without trying my recommendations below.
- Xela Green Get directions
- U’tz Hua Get directions
- Sabor de la India Get directions
The traditional Guatemalan cuisine like Papian is something you have to try at least once while you’re in Guatemala.
Other than that, it’s hard to really say anything too negative about this wonderful little landscape.
It’s got just about everything that one could want or ask for, all in a wonderful little area.
While trying to avoid all those gringo targeted restaurants, remember to sample some traditional food.
The traditional Guatemalan cuisine like Papian is something you have to try at least once while you’re in Guatemala.
Backpacking Guatemala – Are you covered?
If you’re backpacking Central America and not sure how you’ll be gone for and you plan on moving from country to country. It is wise to get some decent travel insurance.
I always recommend backpackers and travelers (no matter who you are) use World Nomads Insurance for fully comprehensive cover.
If you are due to travel soon, you can get a Get A Free Quote by clicking the link or the image above and filling out your details – that way you’ll get instant cover from the exact date that you choose.
On many occasions World Nomads has provided me with reliable insurance cover for travel in Latin America and the rest of the world.
Xela Guatemala: Where will you begin?
Xela has become one of the best places to backpack in Guatemala!
With so much to do and so little time to do it all in, where will you start?
Knowing where to go in Guatemala is key and by using this guide of the best things to do in Xela, you’ll find it easy to get settled and have fun.
So, the question is, where do you see yourself having the most fun?
See this detailed guide to backpacking Central America to get more inspiration and ideas of places you can visit while in the region.
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