What to do in Xela?

As volunteers living in Xela, we want to share everything we can about this incredible city!

First we wanted to highlight some of our favorite adventures and activities right around Xela. Then below we have shared a map of all our recommendations, including our highlights but also some of the best restaurants, cafes, bars, museums, and so much more.

Hot Springs and Saunas

Thanks to all the active volcanoes around Xela, there any many natural thermal vents releasing hot steam or water. If you want an amazing hot bath or steam sauna, you’re in the right place.

Fuentes Georginas – Popular for a reason, these hot baths are a short taxi ride away from Xela in Zunil. Mutliple pools in the forest, with options for food and drink there as well.
Aguas Amargas – Also just outside of Zunil, these hot baths with gorgeous views are famous for their healing properties, since their “bitter waters” are full of minerals.
Las Cumbres – This eco-hotel in Zunil also allows any visitors to use their natural steam saunas for a small fee. Just off the highway, it’s easy to go for a steam by public bus!
Los Vahos – If you want to avoid vehicles completely, you can hike directly from Xela to visit these steam rooms, tucked up in the forests of Cerro Quemado.

Short Walks and Hikes

There is so much fantastic hiking around Xela… and you don’t need a guide for some of the shorter options! Here are some of our favorite local walks and hikes that you can explore on your own.

Cementerio General – The general cemetery of Xela is worth a visit, either for a quick look or to wander for hours. Don’t miss this if you want to walk without leaving the city!
El Baúl – If you want to walk right out of the center for a gorgeous view of the city and a peaceful park (including the infamous slides) then this short walk is a great choice.
Cerro Quemado – These lava fields are impressive just for the geology alone, but even more special to explore because of the ceremonial sites scattered throughout!
Laguna Chicabal – A sacred lake in the summit of volcan Chicabal. Although swimming is prohibited, it’s a beautiful hike with so much spiritual significance.

Textile Shops and Markets

The Guatemalan highlands are renowned for producing some of the best textiles in the world. If you want to learn, shop, or just wander amidst the colorful stalls, here are some places to check out.

Trama Textiles – this nonprofit weaving organization has tons of information about textiles in Guatemala, as well as the opportunity for classes and workshops to try yourself!
Yabal Cooperative – This shop sells handwoven textiles from a group of women from around the highlands. Absolutely stunning items and a great cause to support.
Salcaja – Just 15 minutes from Xela, this small town has one of the most incredible textile markets in the world. Especially colorful on Tuesdays and Saturdays!

Other recommendations

If you’re looking for more incredible activities, tours, and social projects beyond Xela itself, then make sure to check out all the other recommendations we have in our main menu at the top of the page!