Things To Do
in San Marcos
San Marcos, Guatemala sits high in the western highlands, offering a cool climate and verdant hills shaped by coffee cultivation. The town blends indigenous Maya heritage with a mellow, welcoming vibe that makes wandering its streets feel effortless. Markets bustle with color and aroma, from handmade textiles to roasted coffee and street snacks.
Visitors arrive for natural beauty, rich culture, and easy access to nearby volcanoes and lakes, all within a friendly Guatemalan setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic walk along the shores of Lake Atitlán, admiring the stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. Enjoy a traditional Guatemalan breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh tortillas and scrambled eggs with tomato sauce. After breakfast, visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and shop for handmade crafts.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of San Marcos to learn about its history and the influence of indigenous cultures. Visit the picturesque church of San Marcos and explore the small art galleries that showcase local artists' work. As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot to relax and soak in the tranquility of the lake.
For dinner, choose a lakeside restaurant and indulge in fresh seafood or traditional Guatemalan dishes, paired with local beverages. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the waterfront, where you can hear the gentle lapping of the waves. End your day with a relaxing yoga session at one of the local wellness centers, surrounded by nature.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before taking a scenic boat ride to the nearby village of Tzununá. Once there, embark on a hike through lush coffee plantations and scenic landscapes, guided by a local expert who shares stories about the region's history. Take in panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains as you make your way to a viewpoint.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at the viewpoint, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, meeting local artisans, and learning about traditional crafts such as weaving and pottery. Don't forget to sample some locally grown coffee while you’re there.
Return to San Marcos in the evening and unwind with a light dinner at a café known for its vegetarian options. After dinner, take a moment to reflect on your day by watching the sunset over the lake, as the sky transforms into a canvas of colors. Spend the night relaxing at a local lodge, listening to the sounds of nature around you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
| 🎟️Entrance to attractions | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly people and rich Maya culture
- Cool highland climate and coffee culture
- Clean, walkable town center with markets
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Some services concentrated in larger towns nearby
- Rural infrastructure can be variable in remote areas
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "No hablo español" - I don’t speak Spanish
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in San Marcos
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, textiles, and lively vendors provide vibrant portrait and market-scene opportunities.
Historic buildings, arches, and everyday life create timeless street photography scenes.
Sunset over nearby hills and the green landscape offer classic Guatemalan highland photos.
Terraced coffee fields with morning mist are perfect for landscape and macro shots of foliage and beans.
Food in San Marcos
San Marcos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, stone-ground chili sauce stew usually served with chicken or pork and rice; found in traditional restaurants and family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
A fragrant turkey stew with annatto and spices, often prepared for special occasions and available in local kitchens.
Sweet plantain dumplings filled with beans or chocolate, common at street stalls and bakeries.
Corn dough tamales with meat and red sauce, widely available in markets and casual dining spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce, textiles, and snack stalls—great for sampling everyday Guatemalan flavors.
Elotes (corn on the cob), tostadas, tamalitos, and freshly squeezed juices from mobile stalls near the market area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' to show respect and politeness.
Ask before photographing vendors; bargain politely and with a smile.
Dress modestly near churches and sacred spaces; remove hats and speak softly in these settings.
Safety
Tipping in San Marcos
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% tip is common if service is not included; small tips for tour guides and café staff are appreciated.
Cash in Guatemalan quetzales is widely used; many hotels and larger shops accept cards, and ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November to April features sunny days, clear skies, and comfortable outdoor conditions, ideal for exploring and photography.
May to October brings daily showers and lush greenery; carry a light rain jacket and protective gear for cameras.
San Marcos at Night
Hiking in San Marcos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Central America's highest peak; challenging hike with rewarding crater and panoramic views; guides recommended.
Border-straddling volcano with impressive crater views; a full-day ascent near the Guatemala–Mexico border.
Nearby coffee finca trails and hillside paths offering scenic overlooks for a relaxed day hike.
Airports
How to reach San Marcos by plane.
Xela’s domestic airport serving the western highlands; most travelers reach San Marcos by road from here.
Guatemala City hub with international flights; requires several hours of ground travel to reach San Marcos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant share of residents belong to Maya groups such as Mam and Kaqchikel, evident in textiles and customs.
A mix of mestizos and foreigners contributes to a diverse cultural scene in cafes and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in neighborhoods and clubs alike.
Common in schools and community centers; street courts are prevalent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Marcos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes rely on beans, corn, and vegetables; ask for meat-free preparations, and favor cheese, eggs, and veggie sides.