Welcome to
Quetzaltenango (Xela)
Guatemala’s second city—cool highlands, coffee, and culture.
Quetzaltenango, almost always called Xela, is a highland city with a strong local identity, Spanish schools, nearby volcanoes, and hot springs. It feels more Guatemalan everyday life than Antigua’s tourist core, and it works well as a base for western Guatemala.
Fast facts
- Cooler altitude climate—mornings and evenings can feel chilly.
- Known for Spanish schools, cafés, and a lively central park area.
- Day trips include hot springs, volcano hikes, and nearby villages.
- Useful hub for travelers continuing west or toward the Mexican border region.
Getting there
RoadRunner connects Xela with Antigua on tourist shuttle routes, so you can skip long chicken-bus days and arrive with a clearer schedule. From Xela you can continue exploring western Guatemala, plan volcano day trips, or link onward toward other highland destinations.
Why travelers love it
- A more local city rhythm with markets, cafés, and cultural life.
- Access to hot springs and volcano landscapes around the western highlands.
- Excellent place to slow down, study Spanish, or break up a long Guatemala itinerary.
RoadRunner Will Get You There.
Book a shared shuttle for simple, budget-friendly travel or go private for more comfort and flexibility between Guatemala's top destinations.