Quetzaltenango: Overview

Drop into the highlands for volcanic views and volunteering - just call it Xela.

Quetzaltenango, mercifully known to just about everyone as Xela ('shay-lah'), is a base for excursions to hot springs, handicraft villages and treks to volcano summits. It's popular with travelers wanting to study Spanish or to join volunteer projects working with indigenous communities.

Fast Facts

Population

140,400

Currency

Name: Quetzal
Code: GTQ
Symbol: Q

Electrical Plugs

American-style plug with two parallel flat blades above a circular grounding pin Japanese-style plug with two parallel flat blades
115V-125V 60Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: Spanish

Time Zones

GMT/UTC -6 

Country Dialing Code

+502

Weights & Measures

Metric

Guatemala - Pick & Mix Chapters

Guatemala - Pick & Mix Chapters

Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our Guatemala guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the Guatemala download page.

Traveller Tips & Discussion

Thorn Tree Forum

View more Thorn Tree threads ›

Jump to Navigation

Shop Online

Advertisement

Book Your Trip

Travel insurance. Be covered by our recommended partner.

Compare & book flights from 100's of domestic & international airlines.

Hotels & Hostels

Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›

Lonely Planet Newsletters

Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›

Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

Lonely Planet