Title: Western Highlands Travel Guide: Best of Western Highlands, Guatemala Travel 2026 | Expedia.co.uk [Hotels in Western Highlands](https://expedia.co.uk/Western-Highlands-Hotels.d6053901.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Holiday Rentals in Western Highlands](https://expedia.co.uk/Western-Highlands-Holiday-Rentals.d6053901.Travel-Guide-HolidayRentals)[Flights to Western Highlands](https://expedia.co.uk/Cheap-Flights-To-Western-Highlands.d6053901.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Western Highlands Car Hire](https://expedia.co.uk/Compare-Cheap-Car-Hire-In-Western-Highlands.d6053901.Car-Hire-Guide)[Western Highlands Holidays](https://expedia.co.uk/Western-Highlands.d6053901.Holidays-City-Breaks) # Western Highlands Travel Guide ## Tourist Guide ![Quetzaltenango which includes a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6204189/8075a86a-cc2d-4e07-a504-7c9e0fb1eaac.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Quetzaltenango which includes a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6204189/8075a86a-cc2d-4e07-a504-7c9e0fb1eaac.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![San Pedro Volcano which includes a sunset, landscape views and mountains](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6105482/f68a74f1-d1d5-49a2-a296-b9c1c1a6c394.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Church of Saint Peter showing a church or cathedral and a garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6220388/6090c8e9-a1dc-4f05-96f2-f61aea11cdb1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Quetzaltenango featuring interior views and heritage elements](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6204189/41304f68-de3d-4a6c-a2e2-98f3dfdd31bf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Western Highlands Things to do #### A magnificent volcanic lake, vibrant villages, hot springs and the heart of the Guatemalan Maya lie within this high-altitude region. Visit the Western Highlands to experience the characterful villages that line the shores of [Lake Atitlán](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Lake-Atitlan.d6220357.Holidays-City-Breaks) and go farther outward to the breathtaking mountain ranges that encircle the region. A diverse landscape of verdant valleys, tree-lined ridges and a mosaic of farm fields are framed by a chain of volcanoes to the south and the high Cuchumatanes Mountains to the north. Hike through the rugged ranges, encounter traditional Maya communities and get to know the central hub city of Quetzaltenango (Xela). Situated western part of the region, Quetzaltenango (Xela) is Guatemala’s second-largest city and a great place to base your excursions to neighboring Maya villages. Experience the rich heritage of the indigenous cultures in highland villages, such as Nebaj or Chichicastenango. Check out busy marketplaces throughout Quetzaltenango and head to the Fuentes Georginas to soak your muscles in a hot spring surrounded by lush ferns. Climb to the peak of Santa María’s conical peak and hike around the trails that wind around the village of Todos Santos Cuchumatán and the striking granite outcrops throughout the Cuchumatanes Mountains. The 13 villages on the shoreline of Lake Atitlán have a stunning outlook of a chain of volcanoes above calm waters. Visit [Panajachel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Panajachel.d181076.Holidays-City-Breaks), the hub of the area, for local crafts and waterfront nightlife. Book a guide to take you on the incomparable hike to Volcán San Pedro. [Santa Cruz la Laguna](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Santa-Cruz-La-Laguna.d6219548.Holidays-City-Breaks) is a secluded lakeside village while [Santiago Atitlán](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Santiago-Atitlan.d6204168.Holidays-City-Breaks), situated at one of the lake’s inlets beneath Vulcán Tolimán, has a shrine and a 16th-century church. Keen hikers should head for the undulating landscapes of the Ixil, a beautifully secluded wilderness dotted with small communities. Check out the enduringly captivating pre-Hispanic cities of Iximché, K’umarkaaj and Zaculeu to experience some of the Western Highlands’ ancient historical sights. The Western Highlands span the area between Antigua’s outskirts and Guatemala’s border with Mexico. Get into the region by flying into Quetzaltenango Airport or catching the buses that traverse the Pan-American Highway. Visit between November and February for drier weather. Be sure to check with local tourism offices before embarking on any hikes or climbs. ![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2026/02/06/expedia-sale-2026-desktop-uk-fr-de.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1400&h=600&q=mediumHigh) ## The Annual Holiday Sale Members save up to 40% on hotels and holiday homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save. [Book now](https://expedia.co.uk/cheap-deals?rfrr=DX_SPRING_PROMO_6053901) - Top hotels in Western Highlands - Top Holiday Rentals in Western Highlands ![Porta Hotel del Lago](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/200000/198000/197985/f525cec0_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Porta Hotel del Lago 2a Avenida 06-17 Zona 2 Panajachel Solola £114 16 Mar - 17 Mar includes taxes & fees Stay at this family-friendly hotel in Panajachel. Enjoy free parking, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ... 8.6/10 Excellent! (1,004 reviews) Clean room, beautiful views and lovely pool area. Reviewed on 4 Feb 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=16%2F03%2F2026&endDate=17%2F03%2F2026&selected=197985&PinnedHotelID=197985&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6053901) ![Hotel Atitlán](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/7000000/6620000/6611300/6611297/3d3918eb_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Hotel Atitlán Finca San Buenaventura Panajachel Solola £214 16 Feb - 17 Feb includes taxes & fees Stay at this hotel in Panajachel. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property condition in ... 9/10 Wonderful! (726 reviews) stunning gardens incredible views comfy beds. the whole place is a fairy tale Reviewed on 9 Feb 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=16%2F02%2F2026&endDate=17%2F02%2F2026&selected=6611297&PinnedHotelID=6611297&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6053901) ![Hotel y Cafe La Casa del Mundo](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/17000000/16060000/16051600/16051529/67d8b6a6_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Hotel y Cafe La Casa del Mundo El Jaibalito Santa Cruz La Laguna Solola Stay at this beach hotel in Santa Cruz La Laguna. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a beach locale and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ... 9.2/10 Wonderful! (274 reviews) the entire property is a postcard. views that will drop you to your knees. Absolutely breathtaking Reviewed on 8 Feb 2026 [Get rates](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=01%2F03%2F2026&endDate=02%2F03%2F2026&selected=16051529&PinnedHotelID=16051529&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6053901) [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=01%2F03%2F2026&endDate=02%2F03%2F2026&selected=16051529&PinnedHotelID=16051529&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6053901) [See all 472 properties in Western Highlands](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=16%2F02%2F2026&endDate=17%2F02%2F2026®ionId=6053901) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ![Refugio del Volcan](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/100000000/99990000/99983800/99983777/b282e9e0_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Refugio del Volcan La Finca San Pedro La Laguna Sololá Department Stay at this cabin in San Pedro La Laguna. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, private hot tubs and on-site spa services. Popular attractions Lake Atitlán and Museo Tz'unun 'Ya ... 9.8/10 Exceptional! (7 reviews) Great location. Good views of Lake Atitlan from the porch. Very secure location. Hostess was most responsive. There is a fully equipped kitchen. Remember to bring basic ingredients and groceries. Most of it is available at small street side stores five minutes from the house. Tuc tucs are readily ... Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/San-Pedro-La-Laguna-Hotels-Refugio-Del-Volcan.h99983777.Hotel-Information) ![Sarnai](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/107000000/106550000/106544100/106544093/edb0466a_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Sarnai 123 Lake Dr San Marcos La Laguna Sololá Department Stay at this luxury apartment in San Marcos La Laguna. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a rooftop terrace and in-room massages. Popular attractions Lake Atitlán and Cerro Tzankujil ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (37 reviews) Clean room, spacious. Great water pressure. Dirt parth to get to site. Dog barking everytime somone walks by. Room next to pathNoisyNoisyaboabove floor and dog Reviewed on 12 Feb 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/San-Marcos-La-Laguna-Hotels-Sarnai.h106544093.Hotel-Information) ![Bungalow Bahía Visión Azul](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/113000000/112340000/112330800/112330761/10ad60b6_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Bungalow Bahía Visión Azul C. de Finca San Buena Aventura Sololá Sololá Stay at this cottage in Sololá. Enjoy a beach locale, a garden and a picnic area. Popular attractions Lake Atitlán and San Jorge Lookout are located nearby. 10/10 Exceptional! (1 review) Good Reviewed on 11 Apr 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Solola-Hotels-Bungalow-Bahia-Vision-Azul.h112330761.Hotel-Information) [See all properties in Western Highlands](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience®ionId=6053901&sort=VACATION_RENTAL) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ## Check Western Highlands hotel availability [Tonight ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=2026-02-15&endDate=2026-02-16)[15 Feb - 16 Feb](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=2026-02-15&endDate=2026-02-16) [Tomorrow night ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=2026-02-16&endDate=2026-02-17)[16 Feb - 17 Feb](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=2026-02-16&endDate=2026-02-17) [Next weekend ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=20%2F02%2F2026&endDate=22%2F02%2F2026)[20 Feb - 22 Feb](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=20%2F02%2F2026&endDate=22%2F02%2F2026) ### Popular places to visit ![Lake Atitlan showing boating, a lake or waterhole and a sunset](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6220357/ee79adf4-7213-4dda-a8c5-e45220b794d0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Lake Atitlán Mountainous treks, artistic pursuits and scuba diving; the towns, villages and volcanoes that surround this picturesque lake in Guatemala's highlands offer adventure and culture. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Lake-Atitlan-Solola.d6220357.Attraction) ![Quetzaltenango Central Park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6105494/2c3af1e1-27da-4fe6-99ee-3f5575cc56fa.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Quetzaltenango Central Park Relax by tree-shaded gardens, shop at artisan markets and see striking colonial-era landmarks at this lively park set in Quetzaltenango’s historic center. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Quetzaltenango-Central-Park-Quetzaltenango.d6105494.Attraction) ![Panajachel Municipal Market featuring markets as well as a small group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6220382/acdbbfa1-ecad-498e-af3e-f302bc075ed1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Panajachel Municipal Market Experience some of Guatemala’s indigenous traditions as you browse the stalls of this colorful market and shop for handcrafted souvenirs and fresh produce. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Panajachel-Municipal-Market-Panajachel.d6220382.Attraction) ![Church of Saint Peter which includes religious elements, a church or cathedral and street scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6220388/281a0b84-cd84-4d4b-a390-d47c3ef7c6c8.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Church of Saint Peter Visit a European-style church that enthralls with its impressive façade. The attractive parkland on its doorstep contains a striking statue of St.Peter. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Church-Of-Saint-Peter-San-Pedro-La-Laguna.d6220388.Attraction) ![San Pedro Volcano which includes a sunset and general coastal views as well as a small group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6105482/27f555d3-8c19-499f-a142-cd4e50b9a509.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### San Pedro Volcano 5/5(1 review) Hike through coffee plantations and thick orchards to the summit of this dormant volcano, which towers above the western shores of Lake Atitlán. [](https://expedia.co.uk/San-Pedro-Volcano-Solola.d6105482.Attraction) ![El Mercado La Democracia, Quetzaltenango, Guatemala](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621532963860/efb72eda-6bb4-4831-82b3-dbb958608805.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### La Democracia Market During your trip to Quetzaltenango, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at La Democracia Market. Discover the area's volcano viewpoints and hot springs. [](https://expedia.co.uk/La-Democracia-Market-Quetzaltenango.d553248621532963860.Attraction) ## Cities near Western Highlands ![Panajachel featuring a bay or harbour, boating and a lake or waterhole](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/181076/cb7be885-1ee3-4064-aa5b-5d1d15a380f1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Panajachel ![Guatemala which includes a sunset, mountains and a lake or waterhole](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6204165/c57108e9-cba4-4f34-bbef-aa2c2cae5310.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### San Pedro La Laguna ![Santiago Atitlan showing a bay or harbour and a coastal town](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6204168/4c3fe9f0-df22-44e3-bc49-e76d809590f3.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Santiago Atitlán ![Santa Cruz La Laguna featuring a city and landscape views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6219548/d6edcc9e-ec7c-49f0-bf64-08bb9a6365af.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Santa Cruz La Laguna ## Explore a world of travel with Expedia - Flights - [Flights to Multiple Use Area Lake Atitlan Basin ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Cheap-Flights-To-Multiple-Use-Area-Lake-Atitlan-Basin.d649200964002652160.Travel-Guide-Flights) - Cities near Western Highlands - Places of interest [Panajachel](https://expedia.co.uk/Panajachel.dx181076)[San Pedro La Laguna](https://expedia.co.uk/San-Pedro-La-Laguna.dx6204165)[Santiago Atitlán](https://expedia.co.uk/Santiago-Atitlan.dx6204168)[Santa Cruz La Laguna](https://expedia.co.uk/Santa-Cruz-La-Laguna.dx6219548)[Tzununa](https://expedia.co.uk/Tzununa.dx6336797)[San Marcos La Laguna](https://expedia.co.uk/San-Marcos-La-Laguna.dx6336798)[Tecpan Guatemala](https://expedia.co.uk/Tecpan-Guatemala.dx6336799)[Chimaltenango](https://expedia.co.uk/Chimaltenango.dx6355761)[Sacapulas](https://expedia.co.uk/Sacapulas.dx3000372027) - [Lake Atitlán ](https://expedia.co.uk/Lake-Atitlan-Solola.d6220357.Attraction) - [Panajachel Municipal Market ](https://expedia.co.uk/Panajachel-Municipal-Market-Panajachel.d6220382.Attraction) - [Santiago Atitlán ](https://expedia.co.uk/Santiago-Atitlan-Santiago-Atitlan.d553248621532965337.Attraction) - [Church of Saint Francis ](https://expedia.co.uk/Church-Of-Saint-Francis-Panajachel.d6220380.Attraction) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels when you book in the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. 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