Title: Visit Western Highlands: Best of Western Highlands Tourism | Expedia Travel Guide - Expedia.ca [Hotels in Western Highlands](https://expedia.ca/Western-Highlands-Hotels.d6053901.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Vacation Rentals in Western Highlands](https://expedia.ca/Western-Highlands-Vacation-Rentals.d6053901.Travel-Guide-VacationRentals)[Flights to Western Highlands](https://expedia.ca/Cheap-Flights-To-Western-Highlands.d6053901.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Western Highlands Car Rentals](https://expedia.ca/Car-Rentals-In-Western-Highlands.d6053901.Car-Rental-Guide)[Western Highlands Vacation Packages](https://expedia.ca/Western-Highlands.d6053901.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Western Highlands ## Travel Guide ![Quetzaltenango showing a city](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6204189/8075a86a-cc2d-4e07-a504-7c9e0fb1eaac.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Quetzaltenango showing 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 which includes a church or cathedral and a park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6220388/6090c8e9-a1dc-4f05-96f2-f61aea11cdb1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Quetzaltenango which includes 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.ca/Lake-Atitlan.d6220357.Destination-Travel-Guides) 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.ca/Panajachel.d181076.Destination-Travel-Guides), 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.ca/Santa-Cruz-La-Laguna.d6219548.Destination-Travel-Guides) is a secluded lakeside village while [Santiago Atitlán](https://www.expedia.ca/Santiago-Atitlan.d6204168.Destination-Travel-Guides), 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. - Western Highlands Hotel Deals - Vacation 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 CA $166 CA $212 total Mar 2 - Mar 3 includes taxes & fees Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Panajachel. Enjoy free parking, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ... 8.6/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews) The staff seemed courteous! Reviewed on Jan 28, 2026 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=02%2F03%2F2026&endDate=03%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 CA $327 CA $399 total Feb 4 - Feb 5 includes taxes & fees Stay at this hotel in Panajachel. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property condition in ... 9/10 Wonderful! (722 reviews) Beautiful property, great location, lovely setting. Very clear. Wonderful staff. Reviewed on Jan 23, 2026 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=04%2F02%2F2026&endDate=05%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 CA $155 CA $189 total Feb 18 - Feb 19 includes taxes & fees Book a stay at this beach hotel in Santa Cruz La Laguna. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ... 9.2/10 Wonderful! (272 reviews) El hotel hermoso un sueño , la comida riquísima , el lago espectacular y los pueblos alrededor bellísimos lo unico que no me gustó fue mi cama incómoda.. me tocó un cuarto con una vista hermosa pero pero no podía dormir con aquella cama durisima y matres de mala calidad pero entiendo que fue el cuarto ... Reviewed on Jan 27, 2026 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=18%2F02%2F2026&endDate=19%2F02%2F2026&selected=16051529&PinnedHotelID=16051529&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6053901) [See all 471 properties in Western Highlands](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=03%2F02%2F2026&endDate=04%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 WiFi, private hot tubs, and onsite 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 Jan 1, 2026 [](https://expedia.ca/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 Book a stay at this luxury apartment in San Marcos La Laguna. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and in-room massages. Popular attractions Lake Atitlán and ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (34 reviews) Staff were super friendly and access to the property was so easy. Great coffee and juice bar at your doorstep and a short 2 minute walk to the lake with stunning views of the volcanoes. Loved the yoga classes and gardens. The room was clean and well serviced with everything we could need, the kitchen ... Reviewed on Feb 1, 2026 [](https://expedia.ca/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 ... 10/10 Exceptional! (1 review) Good Reviewed on Apr 11, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Solola-Hotels-Bungalow-Bahia-Vision-Azul.h112330761.Hotel-Information) [See all properties in Western Highlands](https://expedia.ca/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.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=2026-02-02&endDate=2026-02-03)[Feb 2 - Feb 3](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=2026-02-02&endDate=2026-02-03) [Tomorrow night ](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=2026-02-03&endDate=2026-02-04)[Feb 3 - Feb 4](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=2026-02-03&endDate=2026-02-04) [This weekend ](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=06%2F02%2F2026&endDate=08%2F02%2F2026)[Feb 6 - Feb 8](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=06%2F02%2F2026&endDate=08%2F02%2F2026) [Next weekend ](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=13%2F02%2F2026&endDate=15%2F02%2F2026)[Feb 13 - Feb 15](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6053901&startDate=13%2F02%2F2026&endDate=15%2F02%2F2026) ### Popular places to visit ![Lake Atitlan which includes a lake or waterhole, landscape views and boating](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.ca/Lake-Atitlan-Solola.d6220357.Vacation-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.ca/Quetzaltenango-Central-Park-Quetzaltenango.d6105494.Vacation-Attraction) ![Panajachel Municipal Market showing 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.ca/Panajachel-Municipal-Market-Panajachel.d6220382.Vacation-Attraction) ![San Pedro Volcano showing general coastal views and a sunset 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 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.ca/San-Pedro-Volcano-San-Pedro-La-Laguna.d6105482.Vacation-Attraction) ![Church of Saint Peter which includes religious elements, street scenes and a church or cathedral](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.ca/Church-Of-Saint-Peter-San-Pedro-La-Laguna.d6220388.Vacation-Attraction) ![Quetzaltenango Cathedral showing heritage elements and a church or cathedral](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6105492/3a6788b5-ac0b-4b31-8528-354fe9d4ecd8.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Quetzaltenango Cathedral Admire the preserved colonial architecture and elegant altars of this 16th-century church, which overlooks the vibrant Quetzaltenango Central Park. [](https://expedia.ca/Quetzaltenango-Cathedral-Quetzaltenango.d6105492.Vacation-Attraction) ## Cities near Western Highlands ![Panajachel which includes a lake or waterhole, boating and a bay or harbour](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/181076/cb7be885-1ee3-4064-aa5b-5d1d15a380f1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Panajachel ![San Juan La Laguna featuring a lake or waterhole and mountains](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6220357/6541ca80-158a-43d7-ac68-82d293253427.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### San Juan La Laguna ![After our first ever chicken bus ride (which is an adventure in of itself) we arrived in Chi-Chi, the biggest market in Central America. Sensory overload. There is so much to see here!! Just make sure you haggle!!! #Guatemala #market #chichi ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6176628/c1ec641a-1067-4f4f-99c1-67bf0fad2d75.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Chichicastenango ![Guatemala showing a sunset, a lake or waterhole and mountains](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 - Cities near Western Highlands - Places of interest [Panajachel](https://expedia.ca/Panajachel.dx181076)[San Juan La Laguna](https://expedia.ca/San-Juan-La-Laguna.dx6141949)[Chichicastenango](https://expedia.ca/Chichicastenango.dx6176628)[San Pedro La Laguna](https://expedia.ca/San-Pedro-La-Laguna.dx6204165)[Santiago Atitlán](https://expedia.ca/Santiago-Atitlan.dx6204168)[Quetzaltenango](https://expedia.ca/Quetzaltenango.dx6204189)[Santa Cruz La Laguna](https://expedia.ca/Santa-Cruz-La-Laguna.dx6219548)[Agua Escondida](https://expedia.ca/Agua-Escondida.dx6248493)[Tzununa](https://expedia.ca/Tzununa.dx6336797)[San Marcos La Laguna](https://expedia.ca/San-Marcos-La-Laguna.dx6336798)[Tecpan Guatemala](https://expedia.ca/Tecpan-Guatemala.dx6336799)[Santa Catarina Palopo](https://expedia.ca/Santa-Catarina-Palopo.dx6336801)[Cerro de Oro](https://expedia.ca/Cerro-De-Oro.dx3000007588)[Jaibalito](https://expedia.ca/Jaibalito.dx3000424248)[Zunil](https://expedia.ca/Zunil.dx3000424460)[El Nuevo Palmar](https://expedia.ca/El-Nuevo-Palmar.dx553248635974650913)[San Martín Jilotepeque](https://expedia.ca/San-Martin-Jilotepeque.dx553248635974719134)[San Pablo La Laguna](https://expedia.ca/San-Pablo-La-Laguna.dx553248635975860070) - [Lake Atitlán ](https://expedia.ca/Lake-Atitlan-Solola.d6220357.Vacation-Attraction) - [Quetzaltenango Central Park ](https://expedia.ca/Quetzaltenango-Central-Park-Quetzaltenango.d6105494.Vacation-Attraction) - [Panajachel Municipal Market ](https://expedia.ca/Panajachel-Municipal-Market-Panajachel.d6220382.Vacation-Attraction) - [San Pedro Volcano ](https://expedia.ca/San-Pedro-Volcano-San-Pedro-La-Laguna.d6105482.Vacation-Attraction) - [Church of Saint Peter ](https://expedia.ca/Church-Of-Saint-Peter-San-Pedro-La-Laguna.d6220388.Vacation-Attraction) - [Cerro Tzankujil ](https://expedia.ca/Cerro-Tzankujil-San-Marcos-La-Laguna.d553248621532965341.Vacation-Attraction) - [Iximche Mayan Ruins ](https://expedia.ca/Iximche-Mayan-Ruins-Tecpan-Guatemala.d553248621532619464.Vacation-Attraction) - [Church of Saint Francis ](https://expedia.ca/Church-Of-Saint-Francis-Panajachel.d6220380.Vacation-Attraction) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels and earn double points when you book on 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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