Xela, as locals usually call the capital of the province Quetzaltenango, is located in the western highlands at an altitude of 2,335 meters.

The Quiché Maya called the region Xe La Juj Noj or Xelajú (“ten ideas” or “ten wise men”). After the conquest by the Spaniards in 1524, the place was called Quetzaltenango (“place of Quetzal”).
Today most of the few tourists come to Quetzaltenango to learn Spanish away from the tourist centre Antigua. Accordingly, the choice of language schools is large.
But Xela has more to offer than a mild climate all year round, clear air and fantastic views. The most important buildings and sights are gathered around the Parque Centro América, the central square of the “Old Town”: The extensively restored Catedral del Espíritu Santo from 1535, the Casa de la Cultura with two museums inside (Museo de la Marimba and Museo de Historia Natural), as well as an art museum and a railway museum. The oldest bank in the country, the Banco de Occidente, is also located here.
The church La Transfiguración houses the allegedly largest crucifix in Central America. From its forecourt, one has a beautiful view over the city.
In the surroundings of the city, it is worth visiting the village San Andrés Xecul, whose church facade with its colourful holy figures is one of the most famous photo motives of the country.
Quetzaltenangos surrounding area is a well-known hiking area. One or several day tours lead to the 3772 m high active volcano Santa Maria and its since 1922 continuously growing lava dome Santiaguito, or to the volcano Chicabal with its almost circular crater lagoon.
In Almolonga, not far from the city, which is also a well-known market town, you can relax in the hot springs of “El Manantial”. More famous are the thermal springs of the “Fuentes Georginas” near the village of Zunil, also home to an impressive church.