How to get to Quetzaltenango

If you are planning a trip to Quetzaltenango, prepare to meet the cultural heart of Guatemala, located in a picturesque mountain valley. This second-largest city in the country, often called Xela by locals, is famous for its neoclassical architecture and proximity to majestic volcanoes. We will tell you how to get to Quetzaltenango and choose the most convenient route using available transport options.

The fastest way to reach the region is to take a flight to Quetzaltenango Airport (AAZ). This small air hub is located very close to the city, allowing travellers to minimise transfer time and immerse themselves in the city's atmosphere almost immediately.

Alternatively, many tourists choose to fly to the capital of Guatemala — Guatemala City. La Aurora International Airport (GUA) is the country's main air gateway and receives the majority of international flights. You can also consider flying to neighbouring Retalhuleu or Tapachula in Mexico, from where it is easy to continue the journey to the mountain valley by ground transport.

When planning a trip to Quetzaltenango, it is important to consider that it is impossible to get here by train. Currently, there is a completely non-functioning passenger railway system in Guatemala. This applies not only to the city itself but to the entire territory of the country.

Tourists should not look for options with transfers to rail transport in neighbouring cities or regions, as this mode of travel is unavailable here. Historic lines no longer serve passengers, so the only alternative for ground travel remains roads and bus routes.

Bus services are the most popular and accessible way to get to the city, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes of Guatemala. The main tourist flow comes from the capital, Guatemala City: comfortable first-class liners cover 200 kilometres of the journey along mountain roads in approximately 4 hours.

For those travelling from the Pacific coast, Retalhuleu will be a convenient starting point; the trip along the steep serpentine road will take only about an hour (50 km). Travellers crossing the border from Mexico often choose the route from the city of Tapachula, which lasts about 5 hours, taking into account customs formalities.

Travelling by car to Quetzaltenango is an excellent chance to see the picturesque highlands for which Guatemala is famous. The road from the capital, Guatemala City, will take about 3.5–4 hours (200 km) along the winding Pan-American Highway. If you are driving from the coast, the path from the city of Retalhuleu will be shorter — just 50 km, which can be covered in an hour, climbing steep slopes towards the clouds.

For tourists arriving from Mexico, it is convenient to travel via Tapachula: a journey of about 120 km usually lasts 4–5 hours, including time for crossing the border. For those who do not plan to rent a car, the option of a private transfer or taxi is available; the average cost of a trip from the capital's airport to the centre of 'Xela' is 100–150 US dollars.

A trip to Quetzaltenango will provide you with a unique experience of discovering the authentic life of mountainous Central America. To ensure your journey through Guatemala is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have prepared a list of important recommendations to help you plan your holiday.

1. Clothing and Weather. The city is located at an altitude of over 2,300 metres above sea level, so the climate here is cooler than on the coast. It can be sunny and warm during the day, but evenings and nights are often cold. Be sure to bring a warm jacket, a sweater, and clothing that can be worn in layers. Comfortable footwear is also useful for walking on cobblestones.
2. Transport. The historic city centre is quite compact and pleasant to explore on foot. For trips over longer distances, it is more convenient and safer to use an official taxi or applications like Uber, especially in the evening. Local minibuses ("chicken buses") are colourful and cheap, but often overcrowded and may not be safe for tourists with luggage.
3. Finances. The national currency is the Quetzal (GTQ). Although major hotels and restaurants accept bank cards, you will certainly need cash to visit markets, small cafes, and pay for transport. ATMs are widely available in the central part of the city and shopping centres.
4. Health and Safety. As in many high-altitude regions, you may feel slight shortness of breath in the first few days — give your body time to acclimatise. Drink only bottled water and avoid drinks with ice at street stalls. From a safety perspective, it is recommended to stick to tourist zones and not display expensive gadgets or large sums of money on the street.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Spanish. English is understood in travel agencies and good hotels, but it is of little use on the streets and in markets. Even a basic knowledge of a few phrases in Spanish will make your life much easier and endear you to the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Guatemalans are very polite and value greetings. When entering a shop or boarding transport, it is customary to say "Buenos días" (good morning) or "Buenas tardes" (good afternoon). If you wish to photograph locals, especially those in traditional Mayan clothing, be sure to ask for permission first — this is a sign of respect.
7. What to Avoid. Do not walk alone in remote areas of the city after dark. Also, avoid participating in any political demonstrations or gatherings of people that may block roads, which sometimes happens in the region.
8. Useful Tip. Quetzaltenango, or Xela as the locals call it, is considered one of the best places in the world to learn Spanish thanks to affordable prices and the clear pronunciation of teachers. If you have time, sign up for short-term courses — this is an excellent way to immerse yourself deeper in the culture.

Observing these simple rules will help you feel confident and avoid minor troubles. Xela is a hospitable city with a rich history that opens up to those who show interest and respect towards it.