5 Best Things to Do in Xela, Guatemala

Quetzaltenango (usually called Xela) is one of those places people end up staying longer than planned. It’s Guatemala’s second-largest city, but it doesn’t feel hectic at all.

It’s more of a “drink some coffee, hike a volcano, and chill” kind of town.

I spent over a week here doing a work exchange, working online, and keeping things pretty low-key. I didn’t run around ticking off attractions nonstop, and honestly… that feels very on-brand for Xela.

It’s a great place to slow down and sprinkle in a few really solid experiences.

If you’ve got 2–3 days, this is a simple, realistic way to experience Xela.

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Quick Snapshot: Xela in 2–3 Days

• Great base for volcano hiking and hot springs (very Guatemala)
• More local, less polished tourist vibe
• Not packed with “must-see” sights, but a few cool experiences

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1) Wander Around Quetzaltenango (Xela)

Wandering is genuinely one of the main activities here… mostly in preparation for more volcano hiking. Apparently, I didn’t have enough after hiking Acatenango and Fuego, and Pacaya.

Walk around the city center, pass through parks, grab coffee, and people-watch. You’ll notice pretty quickly that Xela feels more local than Antigua. Fewer souvenir shops, more everyday life.

I didn’t follow a strict sightseeing plan here, and I don’t think you need one. Xela shines when you let it be casual.

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2) Rooftop Drinks & Low-Key Nightlife

Xela isn’t a wild party city, but there are some fun, social spots for casual drinks.

I went to Kasa Kiwi Hostel one night because my new local friend Krista wanted karaoke, and it ended up being a good time. Chill crowd, backpacker-friendly, and easy to meet people.

There are also nice views of the surrounding hills from up top, which never hurts.

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3) Cerro El Baúl Viewpoint

Cerro El Baúl is a viewpoint overlooking the city and surrounding mountains. You can drive or walk up.

It’s an easy outing and a nice way to see Xela from above without committing to a massive hike. Great for a quick visit, sunset stop, or just hanging out with takeout, like some of the local kids were doing when I visited.

Simple, free, and worth the short trip. Again, all in the name of preparing yourself for more volcano hiking, of course…

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4) Hike Santa María Volcano

This was my main “big” activity in Xela and easily the highlight.

Santa María is a challenging volcano hike that rewards you with huge views over Quetzaltenango and direct views down into Santiaguito, an active volcano. You’re standing on one volcano, looking into another.

Yes, it’s as cool as it sounds!

What to expect:

• Very early start (before sunrise)
• Steady uphill hiking
• Long but manageable if you’re reasonably fit
• Big payoff views at the top

From the summit, you can see volcanoes, rolling mountains, and often smoke rising from Santiaguito below. It’s pretty dramatic up here.

This hike isn’t technical, but it is physically demanding. If you enjoy hiking and don’t mind an early alarm, it’s absolutely worth it.

READ MORE: Hiking Santa María Volcano Outside Xela, Guatemala

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5) Soak at Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs

Fuentes Georginas is a set of mountain hot springs outside the city, and it pairs perfectly with hiking.

Warm pools, cool mountain air, and forest surroundings. It’s relaxing, scenic, and exactly what your legs want after Santa María. I was very thankful I went the next morning!

You can visit as a half-day trip and still have plenty of time to chill back in Xela afterward. The best way to get here is to have a car, or make it simple and take a tour.

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