Things To Do
in Soloma
Soloma is a small highland town in western Guatemala, perched among green hills and misty mornings. Its compact center hosts a lively weekly market, pastel houses, and distant views of surrounding volcanoes. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, inviting visitors to wander narrow streets, mingle with locals, and sample traditional foods.
While not a major tourist hub, Soloma serves as a friendly base for exploring Maya culture and nearby natural areas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Central Park of Soloma, where you can enjoy the morning sun and watch locals go about their daily routines. Visit the nearby church, Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, and marvel at its colonial architecture and beautifully painted murals. Don’t forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a local comedor, savoring local dishes like huevos revueltos and fresh tortillas.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant local market, where you can find handmade crafts and sample local fruits. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps buy some souvenirs to take home. Afterward, visit the Museum of Soloma, which offers insights into the history and culture of the region through fascinating exhibits.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a rooftop café to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Relish a delicious dinner featuring Guatemalan specialties such as pepián or kak'ik, paired with a refreshing local beverage. End your day with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the charm of Soloma at night.
Start your day by visiting a nearby indigenous community to experience the rich traditions of the Maya people. Participate in a weaving workshop where you can learn about traditional textile techniques and create your own piece of art. Enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared by local families, featuring fresh corn tortillas and spicy salsa.
In the afternoon, participate in a guided tour of the community, where you can see daily life and agricultural practices that have been passed down through generations. Engage in conversations with local artisans and understand the significance of their crafts. Conclude your visit by sharing a meal with the community, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in their vibrant culture.
Return to Soloma and unwind at a local café, reflecting on the day's experiences. Treat yourself to a dessert made with local ingredients, such as coconut or chocolate. As night falls, consider attending a traditional dance performance if available, further connecting with the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or juice | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi or local transport (short ride) | $2-5 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $15-40 |
| 🧺Market groceries or produce | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Access to nearby highland landscapes and coffee culture
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist services
- Rural roads can be rough and transport options sparse
- "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?
- "Hablo inglés" - I speak English
- "¿Puede recomendarme un lugar vegano?" - Can you recommend a vegan place?
Places to Visit in Soloma
Visit one of these nice places.
A hillside overlook offering views of the town, surrounding fields, and distant hills especially at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful stalls with produce, textiles, and daily life scenes—great for candid street photography.
Tiered plantations and workers among the green rows provide classic highland imagery.
Dusty lanes winding through maize fields and small farms, perfect for golden-hour landscape shots.
Food in Soloma
Soloma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty, spicy stew made with roasted chilies, sesame seeds, and roasted vegetables; commonly served with rice or tortillas at local eateries.
Must-Try!
Beef soup with tender vegetables and herbs, a comforting staple especially on cooler evenings.
Steamed corn dough wrapped in banana leaves with meat or beans and peppers, a common street-food or market staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where locals buy produce, tortillas, and fresh herbs; a great place to sample day-to-day Guatemalan fare.
Grilled meats, fresh fruit with chile-lime salt, and tamales sold around the market area; great for quick, inexpensive bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes”; a handshake is common, and eye contact shows respect.
Modest clothing is appreciated, especially in rural areas. Public displays of affection are less common in formal spaces.
Ask for permission before photographing people, particularly in homes or markets.
Safety
Tipping in Soloma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for good service. In restaurants, 5-10% is appreciated if service isn’t included. For street vendors or informal services, round up the bill or give a small amount as you see fit.
Cash in local currency (quetzales) is widely used in Soloma; some larger shops and hotels accept credit/debit cards, but many smaller businesses are cash-only. US dollars are sometimes accepted at tourist spots but should not be relied upon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mornings are cool and sunny, with clear skies ideal for outdoor photography and walks; evenings can be cool and breezy.
Afternoons are often warm and showery; mornings are frequently misty with lush green surroundings but trails can be slippery.
Soloma at Night
Hiking in Soloma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking routes along hillside fields and forested slopes offering panoramic views of valleys and cloud forest microclimates.
A gentle ridge walk with sunrise opportunities and rural scenery; suitable for most fitness levels.
Airports
How to reach Soloma by plane.
Main international gateway to Guatemala; a long drive or domestic flight from Soloma, often used as a starting point to reach the highlands.
Closest major regional airport to the western highlands; provides domestic flights and connects to smaller towns by road.
Smaller local airport serving the Huehuetenango area; useful for regional travel but with limited flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents belong to Maya communities, preserving traditional dress, language, and crafts alongside Spanish-speaking households.
A varying mix of Mestizo families and long-term residents contributing to the town’s cultural blend.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, enjoyed by locals in parks and informal leagues.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games are frequent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soloma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on bean dishes, cheese-based tortillas, and vegetable stews; ask for rice or corn tortillas as sides and request vegetables without lard or meat-based broths.