Quetzaltenango
About 180 thousand people.
Quetzaltenango, often called Xela, is the biggest city in the western highlands and a cozy mountain city surrounded by volcanoes. It is a center for schools, culture, and Maya traditions.
You can stroll the grand Central Park, warm up in nearby hot springs like Fuentes Georginas, and taste warm local sweets on chilly evenings.
(photo coming)
Nature
Green mountains and steaming volcanoes surround the city, and nearby hot springs let you soak in naturally warm water.
(photo coming)
Culture
Xela is proud of its Maya heritage, with busy markets full of handwoven cloth in every color and traditional dances during festivals.