Here’s a cute half-day trip from Xela that’ll cost you next to nothing – but give you churches, chats to locals, views, and shoes you’ll never forget!
Quetzaltenango (also known by it Mayan name Xela) is a popular spot for travellers to stop and learn Spanish in one of the many affordable Spanish schools. I stayed here years ago and learnt at Utatlan Spanish School, while volunteering for Trama Textiles.
Because many students opt for the 5-hr intensives, finding half-day excursions are important to enjoy all that Xela and its surrounding regions have to offer.
Stop 1 – San Andrés Xecul
My two friends and I left Xela at 10am and caught an Uber to San Andrés Xecul, a colorful Indigenous town is famous for its bright yellow churches and views of the valley.
While you’re there:
- Visit the main square for the San Andrés Catholic Church‘s intricate and colourful facade. Its designs include angels, flowers, fruits and jaguars.
- After, wander through the market. This is the perfect opportunity to chat with the spice sellers and practice your Spanish. While you’re upstairs don’t miss the little dolphin sculptured fountain.
- Hike up the hill to Iglesia El Calvario for a view of the whole town. You’ll be able to see the colourful dome of the Catholic Church from this height.
- Don’t miss the Maya Altar tucked beside the church to the right. If you’re lucky you’ll be able to observe some locals paying their respects through candles, fire and chants.
How to get there: By bus (ask at the terminal for a bus to San Andrés Xecul Q15) and then take a Q15 Tuk Tuk. Or share an Uber with friends (~Q35).
Stop 2 – A treasure trove of shoes!
Can you imagine buying great quality shoes for Q15 ($3 AUD)?!
As we took the bus to the next town of Saljacá, we noticed the bus had stopped outside of an enourmous warehouse that seemed to be filled of shoes. We weren’t quick enough to get off so waited til the next stop then walked back.
The warehouse was stacked with so many pairs of quality shoes, many of which were well known brands. We spent 45 mins digging through piles and found:
- Doc Martens
- The cutest and prettiest cowboy boots (unbranded)
- Ariat cowboy boots
- Many pairs of Chacos
- Sketchers
- Merrell hiking boots
- Tevas
- UGGs Australia… the list goes on
I bought a quality pair of Chacos (worth +$100) and some Sketchers, and spent the equivalent of $6 AUD.
The experience is very chaotic as there are shelves after crates after shelves worth of shoes, but the hunt is SO worth it. Go with friends, dig deep, and take socks!
How to get there: Take a Q15 tuk tuk to the edge of the town and then jump on the bus heading to Xela (Q5). Watch your map and get off at ZAS Zapatos (the bus stops across the road).
Stop 3 – Salcajá
From the warehouse we walked into the town of Salcajá, which is known for having the oldest conserved church in Mesoamérica, built in 1525 (500 years ago).
While you’re there, definitely:
- Visit Ermita Conquistadora de La Inmaculada Concepción and its small adjoining museum. Double check the times as the museum’s opening hours don’t seem to be consistent.
- Head to the Mirador Barrio Boys for views of the town and countryside. We did some more exploring and walked past corn fields and saw many dogs on rooftops (which we dubbed parkour dogs).
- Walk to the Laguneta de Saljacá for a quiet nature break.
- Grab lunch at a local market stall. I always look for a busy stall, as this usually signifies well respected and good quality food.
How to get back to Xela: We split an Uber (~Q30), but you can also catch a chicken bus to Xela (however, you may need to change at Cuatro Caminos and then catch a city bus to the city centre).
Transport overview
Screenshot the list below for an overview of the transport options between each stop, or find it on my instagram.
I hope you enjoy this little half-day trip – and best of luck on your treasure hunt for shoes! Let me know what you find.
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