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Nicknamed “Xela” by locals, Quetzaltenango is a fascinating mix of cultures and history dating back to Spanish and German colonisation. Dotted with art galleries espresso lounges and micro-pubs, Quetzaltenango also offers adventure seekers a home base for hiking Volcan Tajumulco and trekking to Lago de Atitlan.

Things to do

Art takes centre stage in the Quetzaltenango cultural scene, with Museo de Arte serving as a focal point for paintings by Guatemala’s modernist masters, such as Efrain Recinos. At Museo Ixkik, you’ll find indigenous Maya weavings and textiles with interpretations of incorporated symbols. Museo de Historia Natural cradles a collection of Maya artefacts, coins and marimbas.

Parque Centro America spans two individual parks dotted with monuments and a series of columns dedicated to composer Rafael Álvarez Ovalle. If you’re travelling with the family, make your way to Parque Zoológico Minerva to observe spider monkeys, grey foxes and tropical birds. On the same block, you’ll pass the Templo de Minerva, a structure devoted to the Roman goddess of learning.

Daytime gatherings in Quetzaltenango centre on coffee and chocolate at Cafe La Luna, known for its made-from-scratch chocolate served in frothy mocha cappuccinos. You can sip on Guatemalan coffees from small family growers at Café Armonía.

In the evening, head to Salon Tecun for pints of Cabro and pizza. When you spy a quirky cafe decorated with found-art objects, you’ve discovered Café El Cuartito, which is known for its raspberry mojitos and live local music.

Getting around

You can pick up a rental car in the city or at Tapachula International Airport, about 140 kilometres away. Microbuses travel throughout the city centre and outlying neighbourhoods, while taxis are also available.