Things To Do
in Parramos
Parramos is a small Guatemalan town in the Sacatepéquez department, just inland from Antigua Guatemala, with a quiet rural charm set against volcanic backdrops. The town blends traditional highland life, colorful mercados, and warm, welcoming locals. Its plazas and colonial-inspired architecture offer a relaxed base for day trips and cultural experiences.
Parramos serves as a convenient gateway to Antigua, nearby volcanoes, and coffee farms while maintaining a slower pace than bigger tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City and take a scenic drive to Parramos, enjoying the lush landscapes and local villages along the way. Check into a charming local guesthouse that reflects the culture and warmth of the town. After settling in, take a short walk around the neighborhood to acclimatize to the area.
Explore the town center and visit the local market where vibrant colors and local crafts abound. Interact with friendly locals and sample traditional Guatemalan dishes such as tamales and pepián at a nearby eatery. This afternoon is perfect for soaking in the essence of Parramos and taking photographs of its picturesque settings.
Return to your guesthouse to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences. Then head out to a local café where live music may fill the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy dinner with a view of the sunset, letting the ambiance of Parramos set the tone for your journey.
Start your day with a visit to the historic Chichicastenango Market, a short trip from Parramos. Engage with local artisans as they showcase their crafts, and immerse yourself in the diverse textiles and handicrafts unique to the region. Don't forget to admire the stunning architecture of the Church of Santo Tomás and the surrounding area.
After exploring the market, head to the nearby Mayan ruins of Iximche, where you can learn about the ancient civilization that once thrived here. Spend the afternoon wandering the archaeological site and taking in the tranquil surroundings. This is an ideal opportunity to guide your appreciation of Guatemala’s rich history and culture.
Return to Parramos in the evening and enjoy a laid-back dinner at a local restaurant offering delicious Guatemalan specialties. Reflect on the day’s adventures with fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences. As the night settles, enjoy a quiet stroll through the town under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (~5-10 km) | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Market purchases (fresh produce & snacks) | $1-6 |
| 💨Public transit ride (bus/microbus) | $0.25-1.50 |
| 🧺Laundry service (per load) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic highland town experience
- Good base for day trips to Antigua and volcano sites
- Limited nightlife and dining options within Parramos
- Healthcare facilities are more limited than in larger cities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Parramos
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful storefronts, daily life, and colonial-influenced architecture make for candid street photography and lively market scenes.
Historic church with simple lines and a charming façade that captures the quiet dignity of the town.
A nearby crest offers sweeping views of the valley, surrounding fields, and distant volcanoes, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Parramos
Parramos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, roasted-seed and chili stew typically served with chicken or beef, rich in spices and a distinctive reddish-brown hue.
Must-Try!
A deeply spiced turkey stew with warm red chili flavors, usually served with rice and tortillas.
Chicken in a vibrant green cilantro and tomatillo sauce, often accompanied by arroz and tostones.
Tamale made with potato and sometimes corn, wrapped and steamed, commonly enjoyed at markets and family gatherings.
Tamales prepared with a rich red sauce and masa, often eaten as a snack or meal component.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh produce, corn-based snacks, freshly prepared tortillas, tamales, and handmade crafts.
Along main thoroughfares, look for elotes asados, tostadas, fresh fruit cups, and small savory pastries from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite smile and a handshake; address elders and officials as Señor/Señora and use formal language in initial interactions.
Modest clothing is appreciated in churches and markets. In many towns, avoid showing too much skin and demonstrate patience in queues.
Safety
Tipping in Parramos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; leave small tips (about 5-10%) at restaurants if service is good, and tip tour guides or drivers directly if the service is satisfactory.
Cash (Guatemalan Quetzal) is widely used; some places also accept USD. Card payments are common in larger restaurants or hotels in nearby Antigua City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with plenty of sunshine and warm days; ideal for outdoor walks and day trips, but carry a hat, sunscreen, and water.
May through October bring daily showers and higher humidity; plan flexible outdoor activities and carry a light rain jacket.
Mild days with cooler evenings; good for exploring markets and surrounding trails.
Cooler mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures, especially at higher elevations; layers recommended.
Parramos at Night
Hiking in Parramos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Active volcano with guided hiking options; suitable for day trips from Parramos with a guide and proper gear.
Striking stratovolcano with scenic trails and viewpoints; a challenging but rewarding hike for prepared hikers.
Hiking area offering city-to-nature transitions and elevated views, accessible via short drives to outskirts of the capital.
Airports
How to reach Parramos by plane.
Guatemala City's main international gateway; a 1–2 hour drive from Parramos depending on traffic, with connections to major international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo and Indigenous residents, with local customs and languages influencing daily life in the highlands.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport regionally, played informally in plazas and formally in local clubs.
Common in community centers and schools, with local teams and pick-up games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Parramos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Guatemalan dishes can be meat-centric, but you’ll find bean-based stews, tamales with vegetables, and fruit plates. Ask for meat-free options or substitution of meat with cheese or beans where possible.