Salcajá Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Salcajá, Guatemala, from culturally rich museums and natural attractions to must-try local cuisine and outdoor adventures. Plan your trip today!


Salcajá, located in Western Highlands, Guatemala, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience amidst stunning natural landscapes. From museums and scenic views to biking routes and local food, Salcajá offers something for every type of traveler. In this travel guide, we’ll show you the ins and outs of Salcajá, so you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and adventure of this colorful town.

Introduction to Salcajá

Salcajá is a small, picturesque town that is home to colonial architecture, ancient ruins, and traditional markets that showcase traditional Guatemalan life and culture. A unique feature of Salcajá is the town’s claim to be the site of the first church to be built in Guatemala in 1524. This colonial-era church, fully restored and preserved, is a true marvel of Baroque style architecture.

Salcajá also offers a range of outdoor attractions, including beautiful hiking and biking trails, impressive waterfalls, and scenic views. And, of course, the local cuisine is a standout feature – mouth-watering dishes served up in vibrant markets, street stalls, and traditional eateries.

List of Places to Visit in Salcajá

To help you make the most of your Salcajá trip, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to visit in the area, which includes attractions that showcase both the town’s rich colonial history and the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • San Cristobal Church: Home to the oldest church in Guatemala, San Cristobal Church houses interesting art treasures from the Colonial era. Do not forget to take some time to appreciate the surroundings by enjoying some of the typical Guatemalan foods or desserts available in the local market nearby.
  • The Museum of Coffee: Salcajá is well-known for its high-quality coffee beans and has a museum dedicated to showcasing the history and process of coffee production, where the planting, separation, roasting, and packaging of the coffee on display can be observed.
  • Salcajá Hot Spring: This park, situated an hour from Salcajá town, features beautiful hot springs, surrounded by greenery, hills, and stunning views.

Natural Attractions of Salcajá: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Balcon del Cielo: A unique landscape offering a stunning view of the surrounding region, Balcon del Cielo is the perfect spot to watch the sun set and enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings.
  • La Iglesia Ruins: La Iglesia Ruinas represents the ruins of Maya city ruins in close touch with the natural surroundings, located on the top of San Cristobal mountain which offers a considerable view of the region. Adventure enthusiasts can hike to the top of the mountain to see the ruins.
  • Los Chorros Waterfall: A must-see nature spot in Salcajá, the waterfall is located around 10km from the town center and features several pools that are perfect for swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Salcajá

Salcajá provides visitors with various exciting hiking and biking routes that allow you to experience both nature and culture in one go.

  • La Ermita Route: This route starts in San Cristobal Church, offering great views of the town below and surrounding mountains since this one incorporates climbing – some level of difficulty is to be expected.
  • Panam Route: The Panam route provides beautiful views of the town of Salcajá, neighboring communities, and the mountains that surround the area. It is perfect for those looking for a leisurely experience as it is not too hard to complete.
  • Montealto Route: This route takes visitors through woods and offers a unique opportunity to see wild animals such as the atractive Guatemalan Quetzal in its natural habitat.

Best Things to Do in Salcajá: Activities and Tours

There are many exciting things to do and see in Salcajá with organized tours and activities, and here are just a few suggestions:

  • Coffee Farm Tour: Those interested in learning more about coffee can opt for a tour of one of Salcajá’s many coffee farms, where visitors can learn about the process of producing Guatemalan coffee, taste the freshest coffee samples, and purchase organic fresh ground coffee to bring back home.
  • Food Tour: Visitors can enjoy a food tour to experience traditional meals and beverages available in Salcajá. You’ll get to taste local delights including Kaq’ik (spicy turkey soup), Jocón (spicy tomatillo and cilantro sauce), and Pepián (a thick, savory, meat-based stew).
  • Photography Tour: For those interested in capturing the stunning beauty of Salcajá, there are many photography tours available to help visitors snap the perfect shot.

Week-Long Itinerary for Salcajá

For a week-long itinerary, check out these activities and sights for travelers:

Day Activities
1 Arrive at Salcajá, explore San Cristobal Church, and sample local street food.
2 Go on a Coffee Farm tour, visit the Museum of Coffee, and shop at local markets.
3 Take a leisurely hike on the Panam Route and enjoy the beautiful views of the town and nearby mountains.
4 Visit La Iglesia Ruins and learn about Mayan history.
5 Go to Los Chorros Waterfall and enjoy a swim in the pools.
6 Join a Food Tour to taste the traditional Guatemalan cuisine.
7 Spend the day on Balcon del Cielo and enjoy the panoramic views.

Food and Drink Scene of Salcajá

A significant part of any travel experience is the local cuisine, and Salcajá won’t disappoint. Here are some of the must-try foods and beverages of Salcajá:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepián: a flavorful meat-based stew.
  • Kaq’ik: a spicy soup made with turkey, often served with tortillas.
  • Jocón: a rich sauce made with tomatillos, cilantro, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Café: Guatemala is known for producing high-quality coffee, and Salcajá has no shortage of coffee shops and markets to buy freshly roasted beans or brewed coffee.
  • Atól: unique to Guatemala, this beverage is made with cornflour, sugar, and spices, often served hot in the mornings.

Where to Stay in Salcajá: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Salcajá has an array of accommodations to suit a range of budgets and preferences. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Posada Rural La Gaviota: a charming guesthouse that offers cozy accommodations in a traditional farmhouse setting.
  • Filadelfia Coffee Resort: a luxury resort that offers guests a unique blend of coffee culture, local architecture, and Guatemalan hospitality incorporated with modern facilities.
  • Accommodations in Antigua Guatemala: Many travelers choose to stay in Antigua Guatemala, which is only an hour’s drive from Salcajá, and has a selection of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to choose from.

What to Buy in Salcajá: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Salcajá is a great place to pick up souvenirs, including traditional Guatemalan textiles, coffee, ceramics, and pottery. Popular markets for souvenir shopping include the San Cristobal market and the town center.

Local Culture and Customs of Salcajá

Salcajá is a very traditional Guatemalan town, and visitors should be aware of the local customs and traditions. A focal point of Salcajá culture is the colonial San Cristobal Church, a sight worth visiting. Christianity is the primary religion, and Salcajá is known for celebrating many holy festivals throughout the year. A respectful manner and modest attire is expected when visiting any local historical monument or church.

Best Time to Visit Salcajá

The dry season, lasting from November through April, is the best time to visit Salcajá since the weather is warm, and the skies are clear. The rainy season, from May through October, is the least-visited period, but travelers who don’t mind the rain may find lower prices on hotels and tours.

Do’s and Don’ts of Salcajá

Do:

  • Try the local coffee and Guatemalan cuisine
  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Take advantage of outdoor activities and tours

Don’t:

  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious sites
  • Hike unprepared in remote areas without a guide or knowledge of the environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Salcajá

Salcajá is a safe area, but visitors should take standard precautions and be aware of pickpockets and traffic. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and public markets.

Health in Salcajá

Visitors should get up to date on recommended vaccinations and consult their doctor for any specific health concerns. Be cautious with food and drink, and stick to bottled water if you’re not sure about the water source.

Getting to Salcajá: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Salcajá

The closest airport is Guatemala City International Airport, around a three-hour drive from Salcajá. From the airport, travelers can rent a car or take a bus to the town or hire a taxi.

Bus Stations Near Salcajá

Buses are a common mode of transportation, and the closest bus stations to Salcajá are Alamo, Coban, and Huehuetenango.

Other Options

Car rental companies are available for travelers to rent private cars and move according to their schedules. Taxis are also available for hire around the town.

How to Get Around in Salcajá

Salcajá is a small town, and most attractions within the town can be reached on foot. For those looking to hike or bike outside of the town center, organized tours and private transport are available.

Where to Go Next from Salcajá: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many exciting tourist destinations in the surrounding areas. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Lake Atitlan, a stunning lake with breathtaking surrounding mountains, just 2 hours from Salcajá.
  • Antigua Guatemala is a beautiful colonial town, only an hour’s drive away, with many things to see and do, including hot springs and cultural experiences.
  • Tikal National Park, situated in the dense jungle of Guatemala’s Petén region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers one of the most exquisite archaeological sites in Central America.

Conclusion

Salcajá is a fantastic destination for travelers seeking a unique and authentic cultural experience. With beautiful natural attractions, busy markets, historic sites, and delicious cuisine, this charming town has something to offer for any traveler.

Central park of Salcajá Central park of Salcajá The first church founded in Central America dates to 1524. The first church founded in Central America dates to 1524.