Huehuetenango is in a valley of the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes mountain range at about 1900 meters or 6000 feet in elevation. The Sierra de los Cuchumatanes make for a beautiful backdrop for the city. This range is the tallest in Central America reaching heights of 4000 meters. The altitude of the city keeps it cool, temperatures range from highs in the winter of around 72 with lows in the high 40s, and in the summer highs reach the mid or high 70s with lows in the mid 50s. The seasons here are divided into the wet season which usually lasts from May to November and the dry season from December to April. During the wet season there are usually afternoon or evening showers and almost no rain at all during the dry season.

Huehue has a population around 100,000. Parque Central is a very pretty and busy area. This is the location of one of the markets which is an interesting sight and an easy walk from the school. Often, you can come see events such as live music. There is another market located at the bus terminal in Huehue. Here, you are likely to see indigenous Mayan people who still wear beautiful traditional clothing. There are two other shopping centers here. One of which has recently opened.

You can make the trip yourself perhaps stopping of at Lake Attitlan and Antigua as part of your travels. Its fairly easy to use the bus system here in Guatemala. Or maybe you’d like to come down through Mexico. Alternatively, should you wish to be picked up at the international airport in Guatemala City please let us know in advance and we will be happy to make arrangements for you. A representative from a reputable hostel will pick you up at the airport and take you to the hostel where you will spend the night. The will also provide meals. The hostel’s representative will take you to the bus station early the next morning and someone from the school will greet you upon arrival in Huehue. The normal cost is: U$35.00. This is includes pick-up from the airport and transport to the hostel in Guatemala City, 1 night’s stay in the hostel, meals, transport to the bus terminal the next morning, and pick up in Huehuetenango.

On one of your weekends off, head to Todos Santos and see the lively market. Here, everyone will be in traditional clothes including the men who wear stunning red and white striped pants and a blue jacket with a thick collar. The people here speak Mam, an ancient Mayan language but they know Spanish as well. There are hiking opportunities around these spectacular mountains.

This spectacular and remote lake is located in the Chuchumatanes near Huehue. Take the bus the dirt road entrance and either hitch a ride, make the long walk, or use the schools bicycles. The rolling hills and farmlands here with people quietly managing flocks of sheep is a unique sight. The emerald color of the lake is an even more impressive. Alternatively, make the trip on horse back with Unicornio Azul.

Climb the tallest non-volcanic mountain in Central America. Take the bus towards Todos Santos and get off at the mountain pass. You will be rewarded from two or three hour walk with views above the clouds.

Make the short trip to Zaculeu, an ancient Mam ceremonial site. The structures date back 1500 years.

This little visited town is the home of Nacimiento del Rio San Juan, a natural spring where water pours up out of a small pool. The market is surrounded by farmlands which use gravity irrigation channels deriving there source from San Juan.

Volunteer at the orphanage here in Huehue. Check out other opportunities at our volunteer and charity section.