Things To Do
in San Francisco la Unión
San Francisco la Union is a small highland town in Guatemala known for its warm community and scenic surroundings. It sits amid rolling hills and agricultural land, offering a gateway to rural markets, crafts, and nearby nature trails. The town center features a simple plaza, a colonial-style church, and lively markets where you can sample Guatemalan staples.
Visitors often come to experience authentic village life, friendly locals, and easy access to surrounding countryside at a relaxed pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Plaza Central, where you can enjoy a local breakfast of pupusas at a nearby café. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by the colorful colonial buildings surrounding the plaza. Take a moment to admire the intricately designed church, Iglesia San Francisco, as the morning sun casts a warm glow over the city.
Stroll through the local artisan market, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the rich culture of the region. Engage with local artisans who are eager to share their stories and the history behind their crafts. Afterward, stop at a traditional Guatemalan restaurant to savor some local dishes for lunch.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic streets, feeling the cool evening breeze. Find a cozy café to relax and sip on some local coffee while soaking in the ambiance of the city. Conclude your day by attending a lively cultural performance in the plaza, featuring traditional music and dance.
Begin with an early morning hike to the nearby Los Volcanes National Park, where you can catch glimpses of exotic birds and lush landscapes. The crisp air and chirping of wildlife create a serene atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers. Spend some time at the observation points for breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanic mountains.
After your hike, return to the city for a picnic lunch at the park's facilities, enjoying the natural beauty around you. In the afternoon, visit the local zoo, where you can learn about conservation efforts and observe unique species native to Guatemala. Spend some time in the petting area, engaging with friendly animals and teaching kids about wildlife.
As the day winds down, head to a local restaurant known for its traditional dishes. Try a plate of Kak'ik, a delicious turkey soup that is a staple in Guatemalan cuisine. End your evening with a sunset walk, reflecting on the day’s adventures amidst the peaceful sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚎Local bus fare (short ride) | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
| 🏨Lodging per night (budget hotel) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to highland scenery and authentic Guatemalan culture
- Affordability and easy access to rural experiences
- Relaxed pace of life with friendly locals
- Limited tourist infrastructure in some areas
- Rural roads can be rough and service may be slower
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "No entiendo" - I don't understand
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in San Francisco la Unión
Visit one of these nice places.
A colonial-style church with archways and a central bell tower, excellent for architectural details and evening lighting.
Cobbled square with trees and benches; ideal for street portraiture and capturing daily town life.
Colorful stalls and vibrant energy; a perfect place for documentary-style photography of market scenes.
Hilltop viewpoint just outside town offering sweeping panoramas of the valley and surrounding hills, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Food in San Francisco la Unión
San Francisco la Unión Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, spicy stew made with roasted peppers, spices, and meat, typically served with rice or tortillas.
Must-Try!
A vibrant turkey stew seasoned with warm spices and served with corn tortillas or rice.
Steamed masa dough parcels filled with meat or beans, wrapped in husks or plantain leaves.
Mashed plantains stuffed with beans or cooked pork, fried until golden.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, tortillas, herbs, and daily snacks.
Elotes, fresh fruit cups, tostadas, and small baked treats sold by local vendors around the plaza.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; address older people with 'Señor/Señora' and use polite language.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities; casual, clean attire is appropriate in most settings.
Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in markets or private properties.
Safety
Tipping in San Francisco la Unión
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave a small tip (about 5-10%) if service is not included. For guides, drivers, and informal services, rounding up or small tips are appreciated.
Local currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). Cash is widely used in markets and small shops; some places may accept credit/debit cards in larger establishments. ATMs are available in town and nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunnier days with lower humidity and comfortable temperatures. It's the best time for outdoor strolls and hill walks, though evenings can be cool.
Frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity; rain can make trails muddy but landscapes are lush and verdant. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
San Francisco la Unión at Night
Hiking in San Francisco la Unión
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearby hill offering a panoramic view of the valley and surrounding farmland; suitable for a short morning hike.
A network of rural hiking trails in the surrounding hills accessible from nearby villages; offers scenic views and opportunities to meet local farmers.
Airports
How to reach San Francisco la Unión by plane.
Guatemala City gateway with international and domestic flights; typically reachable by road via a longer bus ride or private shuttle.
Regional airport serving Xela (Quetzaltenango) with domestic connections; travel time by road is several hours depending on route and traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Spanish-speaking with Mayan cultural influences; some residents maintain Mayan languages in surrounding areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and informal matches are common in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Francisco la Unión.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes center on beans, corn, rice, and vegetables. Look for arroz con frijoles, tamales vegetarian, and fresh fruit; ask for no lard or meat-based broths and request cheese or avocado as protein substitutes when needed.