The Sierra de los Cuchumatanes rise to over 3,800 metres directly north of Huehuetenango — the highest non-volcanic range in Central America and one of the least visited. The road climbing into them from the city is itself spectacular, switching back through cloud forest before emerging onto a vast, cold plateau dotted with traditional Maya villages.
The mountains are home to several distinct indigenous communities, each with their own textile traditions and dialects. Roads connect the main settlements but services are minimal and accommodation is basic. Most travelers visit on day trips from Huehuetenango; the dedicated will hire a pickup truck and explore for several days. At altitude the temperature drops sharply after dark year-round, so bring layers even in summer.