Quetzaltenango
Quetzaltenango
Quetzaltenango
Population
661.375 habitants
Postcode
09001 (Headline)
09020 (Coatepeque)
Location
210 Km. of capital city
Altitude
2,333 msnm
Languages
Spanish, kiche y mam
Territorial Extension
1.953 km²
Weather
Cold
Major tourist attractions
Laguna de Chicabal
Volcán Santa María
Known as Xela (shay-lah) to travelers and locals alike. Xela is both the commercial center of the Western Highlands and Guatemala’s second largest city.
Since Xela does not have the constant influx of tourists like Antigua, it is considered by many an excellent location to study Spanish by immersing yourself in the Guatemalan Culture.
Xela is a metropolitan city filled with nightlife, hotels, and Spanish schools and restaurants making it a great spot to spend time learning Spanish or using it as a base for adventures to near by attractions including: The relaxing hot springs of Fuentes Georginas, the traditional town of Zunil, mysterious Laguna de Chicabal, or beautiful Lake Atitlan. Although, big in size and population, Xela offers many different cultural events happening in the newly restored colonial theater, hosting live music, plays and traditional dances.
Xela and the surrounding area are home to a large Mayan population. While walking through the streets you can expect to see Mayan women dress head to toe in traditional clothing, selling fruits and vegetables in the local markets. By listening closely you will hear many different Mayan languages been spoken as people carry on in their daily lives.
Orientation of Quetzaltenango
Even though Xela can appear large upon first arrival, you will find the majority of hotels, restaurants, and Spanish schools are conveniently located in either Zona 3 or Zona 1. You will find it difficult to get lost while staying in Xela as the Southern skyline is always dominated by Volcano Santa Maria. Standing at 3,772 meters, Santa Maria offers an impressive backdrop to the lovely city it looms over.
Climate of Quetzaltenango
The high elevation of Xela gives it a different climate in comparison to other areas. You can expect to find cool nights, filled with warm sunny days. In winter, which lasts from November to February, nighttime temperatures can drop as low as 30 F/ -1C. If you are living with a host family, we recommend you bring something to keep you warm while sleeping as few houses have heat.
The Rainy season effects Xela in the same way it does all of Guatemala. Clear dry mornings and early afternoons. During the afternoon you will notice the sky clouding over followed by downpours lasting a couple hours.
General Information / Overview of Quetzaltenango
Emergency Phone
Volunteer Firefighters. +(502) 7761.2002
Red Cross. +(502) 7761.2746
Transit Police. +(502) 7761.0217
National Civil Police. +(502) 7765.499, +(502) 7761.0042
Tourist assistance to the (central). +(502) 2421.2810
Registration Office of Tourism. +(502) 7761.4931
Inguat in Xela
INGUAT provides schedules for buses, billboard events, tours and information related to travel.
INGUAT
7ª calle 11-35 zona 1
Edificio Casa de la Cultura
Fax. +(502) 7761.4931
info-xela@inguat.gob.gt
www.visitguatemala.com
