Iconic Yellow Church + Mayan Market + Small Town: Cultural Tour
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Iconic Yellow Church + Mayan Market + Small Town: Cultural Tour

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(1 reviews)
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience

During this tour, we will take you to know 3 different towns. You will explore the largest market in Guatemala, will go to the most colorful church, and end the tour by going to a small but lovely town.

Each location holds something special that we want to show you and hope you like it as much as we do or even more.

The first place to visit will be San Francisco El Alto and its market which is the largest one in Guatemala. Usually, it takes around 6 hours to go through all of it (that is not the case on this tour, we will be there just a fraction of all that time). Then, we will visit the famous church of San Andrés Xecul, an icon of Guatemala and a representation of religious syncretism. In the end, we will visit Salcajá, a small but very charming town with lots of history and beautiful places to visit.

This is a tour you don´t want to miss, so reserve your ticket, and we will take you to one of the greatest traveling experiences of them all.

Available options

Iconic Yellow Church + Mayan Market + Small Town: Cultural Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Bottled water
Certified tour guide
Air conditioning in the vehicle
Guided tour in San Francisco El Alto + The Yellow Church of San Andrés Xecul + Salcajá

Detailed itinerary

1

This is a cultural tour where you will learn everything about the Mayan culture by visiting 3 different towns, each of them with something that makes them particular and lovely.
We will start by picking you up at the lobby of your hotel in the central area of Xela, and we will head to San Francisco El Alto. The ride to get there will only take us 40 minutes. This is the perfect chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery all the way and relax.

2

Once we get to San Francisco El Alto you will be amazed by the variety of products sold at the central market. This is the biggest market in Guatemala, and it takes around 6 hours to go to all of it. Here you can find all types of fruits, vegetables, and even live animals such as sheep, chickens, calves, and more.
Don´t miss the chance to try some traditional street food or buy any souvenirs that you might like.

3

This is our second stop and in some way, the star of the show. San Andrés Xecul has one of the most beautiful churches in Guatemala. The intensity of its colors and the story behind each figure is amazing.

This iconic yellow church has a mix of two religions, Christianity and the Mayan. Each color represents something for the indigenous people, for example, yellow represents corn, the sacred food for the Mayans. Red represents the sun and the sacrifice of Mayan ancestors back in the Spanish conquer. All the figures tell a different story and have something to tell.

Something that is very curious for most travelers is that on the inside, you will see Christian figures dressed in traditional Mayan clothing made by women of the town.

Needless to say that this is a great spot for mind-blowing photos.

4

Salcajá is the closest town to Xela. It has a lot of color and life in it. Small and colorful streets are everywhere you put your eyes. This place also holds one of the oldest hermitages in the area. It is small and beautiful.

This is the perfect place to learn about a traditional locally produced liquor called Caldo de Frutas or Fruit Broth which ferments in 2 years and is fruit-based.

5

The tour will start just 15 minutes after we leave Salcajá as that town is very close to Xela. Here we say goodbye for now, but we hope you return soon. We hope that you enjoy every step of the tour as much as we do and that you can take great pictures back with you.

What's not included

Gratuities
Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Bring comfortable shoes for long walks, sun protection, and money for personal expenses

About Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango, known locally as Xela, is the second-largest city in Guatemala and a cultural hub of the Western Highlands. Nestled in a valley surrounded by volcanic peaks, it offers a rich blend of indigenous Mayan and Spanish colonial heritage, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Parque Centroamericano

A central park in the heart of Quetzaltenango, featuring lush greenery, walking paths, and a small lake. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Park 1 to 2 hours Free

Cerro El Baúl

An archaeological site featuring the remains of a pre-Columbian Mayan city. The site offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.

Historical 2 to 3 hours Free

Museo de los Altos

A museum showcasing the history and culture of the Western Highlands, including Mayan artifacts and colonial-era exhibits.

Museum 1 to 2 hours Moderate (50 GTQ / 6.50 USD)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kak'ik

A traditional Mayan turkey soup with a rich, spicy broth.

Soup Contains meat

Pepián

A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and a blend of spices.

Stew Contains meat, can be vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Coffee tasting Spa visits Museum visits Traditional dance performances Boat tours on Lake Atitlán Mayan weaving workshops

Best Time to Visit

December to April (Dry season)

The dry season offers the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with local festivals and cultural events.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: K'iche', Mam, Q'anjob'al
  • English: Limited

Currency

Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)

Time Zone

CST (UTC-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quetzaltenango is generally safe, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur. Be vigilant, especially in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Avoid displaying valuables
  • • Use reputable taxi services
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering help

Getting there

By air
  • La Aurora International Airport • 200 km (124 miles) from Quetzaltenango
By bus

Terminal Quetzaltenango

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses, known as 'camionetas,' are the most common and affordable way to get around the city. They are often crowded and can be challenging for tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber is available in Quetzaltenango

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Zona 1 Zona 3

Day trips

Lake Atitlán
80 km (50 miles) • Full day

A stunning volcanic lake surrounded by villages, each with its own unique culture and traditions.

Santa María Volcano
20 km (12 miles) • Full day

An active volcano offering challenging hikes and breathtaking views.

Festivals

Fiesta Minerva • September Fiesta de la Virgen del Rosario • October

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
  • Visit local markets for authentic souvenirs and to experience the vibrant culture.
  • Try local coffee, which is renowned for its high quality and rich flavor.
  • Be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at night, due to the city's high altitude.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 9-90
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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