The highlands around Quetzaltenango are dense with indigenous market towns, volcanic landscapes, and hot spring complexes. Most destinations are within an hour of the city.
Fuentes Georginas — Natural hot springs in a wooded ravine south of town, 30 kilometres from the city. Volcanic pools, cloud forest setting, cheap entry. The standard half-day excursion.
Zunil — A picturesque K'iche' Maya town in a valley below Quetzaltenango, dominated by an ornate white colonial church. One of the few towns where Maximón, the syncretic folk saint, is actively venerated — the idol changes location from house to house annually.
San Francisco El Alto — A hilltop market town with a Friday livestock market that is one of the most spectacular in the country. Views from the town plaza stretch to Santa María, Cerro Quemado, and the Zunil volcano.
Momostenango — The wool weaving capital of Guatemala, where heavy blankets are still woven on traditional foot looms. The Sunday market is the main draw.
Laguna Chicabal — A sacred crater lake inside Volcán Chicabal, about 45 kilometres from Quetzaltenango. Maya ceremonies take place on the lakeside and the approach through cloud forest is beautiful.