Here's a pleasant visit for a Friday in Guatemala. Welcome to San Francisco El Alto! Typical products, culinary specialties and lively atmosphere perfectly describe this town and its market. An unmissable encounter with Guatemalan craftspeople and merchants, not to be missed.

Its history

San Francisco El Alto was once called "Chusiguán". This name is composed of two words: "Chu" which means "above" and "-siguán" which translates to ravine. Thus, the name is understood as "above the ravine", linked to its geographical position.

In one of the oldest accounts of the municipality, written by Saint Francisco Antonio de Fuentes y Guzmán in 1989, he explains that this name was chosen because of the city's elevated position. He mentions that at that time, the population comprised approximately 2,800 inhabitants from the Quiché community. By 1797, the population had grown further, reaching 5,352 inhabitants, with maize and livestock as the main export products. It became a municipality thanks to a government agreement dated October 11, 1825.

San Francisco El Alto, a town in the heart of Totonicapán

San Francisco El Alto is a Guatemalan town with a population of 38,995 inhabitants. It is part of the Totonicapán municipality. This municipality comprises several villages, namely Chivarreto, Chirrenox, Pabatoc, Paxixil, Rancho de Teja, Pachaj, Sacmixit, San Antonio Sija, Saquicol Chiquito and Tacajalbé. It is also home to the Sacmixit community forest.

Guided tour of San Francisco El Alto market

An hour from Xela, at 2,630 meters altitude, one of Guatemala's largest and most vibrant markets takes place every Friday. Located 5 km north of San Cristóbal, at 2,610 meters altitude, 11 miles from Quetzaltenango, it remains unspoiled by mass tourism.

From the main square, admire the colonial church of this small highland village. Known for its traditional textiles and clothing, this market stretches across a vast area. You'll also find beautiful fabrics with unique patterns.

Begin by discovering ceramic objects such as pitchers and plates, before losing yourself among the stalls where women in huipils carry baskets on their heads. The stalls showcase a variety of spices, dried peppers, shrimp, bananas, shoes and whole chickens, in a colorful and fragrant atmosphere.

As you move toward the central square, cross a passageway lined with stalls under colorful canopies, which leads you to a stone church. The church captivates with its beautiful facade. Its interior, with its columns and arches, leaves a strong impression.

Weather

The climate in this region is subtropical highland, with moderate temperatures and well-marked humid and dry seasons. During the day, temperatures generally range between 20°C and 25°C, while nights can be much cooler, often reaching 10°C to 12°C.

When to visit?

The best time to visit this town spans November to April during the dry season. Expect sunny and pleasant weather to enjoy the local markets and traditional festivities. The atmosphere is also conducive to discoveries.

The rainy season, from May to October, is also a good time to visit San Francisco El Alto. Indeed, the landscapes become greener and it's an opportunity to witness up close agricultural activities and daily life, which continue despite the showers.

What to visit nearby

• Cerro de la Cruz National Park
• Volcan San Miguel
• Nature Trail
• Tacaná Forest Reserve
• El Boqueron
• Volcan Cuxliquel 6 km away
• Ermita de la Concepción or La Conquistadora Church 7 km away
• Riscos de Momostenango National Park 12 km away
• Cerro El Baul 14 km away
• Saint Nicholas Church 14 km away
• Benito Juarez Park 14 km away
• Quetzaltenango – Xela or Xelaju 14 km away
• Quetzaltenango Intercultural Centre 14 km away
• Ixkik Costume Museum 14 km away
• Municipal Theatre of Quetzaltenango or Teatro Roma 14 km away

San Francisco El Alto is approximately 110 km from Guatemala City. The journey takes about four hours. Take the CA-1 highway heading west, pass through Nahualà, then make a detour toward Totonicapán. Follow the road to Totonicapán, then continue to reach San Francisco El Alto. You can also depart from Cuatro Caminos and head north for 12 km.

To reach Totonicapán, you have several options. If you take the cold lands route, use the Inter-American Highway CA-1, pass through Los Encuentros and Cuatro Caminos, then head toward the center of Totonicapán. By passing through the warm lands, take the Pacific Highway toward Palin-Escuintla, continue to Mazatenango, then toward Retalhuleu. One kilometer before entering Quetzaltenango, turn right toward Totonicapán.