Discover Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala
Quetzaltenango is the second-largest city in Guatemala, home to around 210,000 inhabitants, many of whom are Indigenous Maya. Nestled in the heart of the stunning Sierra Madre mountain range, Xela is conveniently located just four hours from both the Mexican border and the capital city. Fun fact: the original name in the Mayan Language K’iche’ was Xelaju No’j, which is where the nickname Xela (pronounced Shey-la) comes from!
A High Altitude and a Mild Climate
The city sits at an altitude of 2,335 meters (about 7,661 feet), offering a mild climate with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (65°F to 77°F). However, nights can be quite cool, particularly during December and January when temperatures may drop below freezing. The rainy season extends from May to September, bringing afternoon showers, though mornings usually remain sunny and warm.
The Perfect Place with Friendly Vibes and Fun Adventures
Xela is a favorite among Spanish students because it’s super friendly and a great base for exploring other beautiful places in Guatemala. On weekends, you can visit the stunning Lake Atitlán, hike nearby volcanoes, or hit the Pacific coast for some relaxation. The town is packed with cozy cafes, great restaurants, fun bars, and lots of salsa dance schools, making it an awesome place to hang out for a few weeks—or even longer!
Language Immersion Beyond the Tourist Trail
Unlike most places on the traditional tourist trail, Xela doesn’t get overwhelmed with tourists, even during busy seasons. A lot of foreigners stay for a longer period of time to study or volunteer, allowing for genuine interactions with the local community. This means you’ll get plenty of chances to practice your Spanish because locals usually won’t switch to English right away, fostering a more immersive language-learning experience.
Although Spanish is the main language, you’ll also hear the local Mayan languages of Mam and K’iche’ around town.
Come join us at our Spanish school in Xela!
You’ll not only boost your language skills but also dive into the amazing Guatemalan culture while soaking in the stunning scenery. We can’t wait to welcome you!
