Quetzaltenango is a colonial town settled by the Conquistadores and surrounded by mist-covered mountains. Xela is Guatemala’s second-largest city and the center of the Quiché Maya people. Towering over the city is the Santa Maria volcano and the active Santiaguito volcano

Quetzaltenango is the commerial center of Southwestern Guatemala. With quiet parks, plazas and narrow stone-paved streets, Quetzaltenango is considered a progressive city in Central America. It has four universities, various technical schools, a sports complex, and a municipal arts theater. As a result, students have the opportunity to observe, and more importantly, interact with the local population and participate in daily Guatemalan life. Visitors will find services and accommodations while those that wish to get out to explore the mountains will find numerous eco-tourism organizations offering hiking and camping treks through the mountains, complete with all the necessary gear and professional, experienced guides