The Highlands - Guatemala - page 294

Getting Around
Terminal Minerva is linked to the city center by microbuses , charging Q1.25 for the 10- to
15-minute ride (Q2 after dark). From the terminal, walk south through the market to the
intersection by the Templo de Minerva, where you'll see the vehicles waiting on the south
side of 4a Calle. Going from the center to the terminal, catch microbuses on 14a Av north of
5a Calle. Taxis await fares at the north end of Parque Centro América; a ride to the Termin-
al Minerva costs around Q30.
The Rotonda bus stop on Calz Independencía is served by 'Parque' microbuses running
to the center.
Inguat has information on other city bus routes.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Around Quetzaltenango
The beautiful volcanic country around Xela offers up numerous exciting day trips. For
many, the volcanoes themselves pose irresistible challenges. You can feast your eyes and
soul on the wild church at San Andrés Xecul, hike to the ceremonial shores of Laguna Ch-
icabal, or soak in the idyllic hot springs at Fuentes Georginas. Or simply hop on a bus and
explore the myriad small traditional villages that pepper this part of the highlands. Market
days are great opportunities to observe locals in action, so Sunday and Wednesday in Mo-
mostenango, Monday in Zunil, Tuesday and Saturday in Totonicapán and Friday in San
Francisco El Alto are good days to visit.
Almolonga
POP 14,223 / ELEV 2322M
An indigenous town with a population that is more than 90% Evangelical Christian, Al-
molonga has become relatively wealthy from vegetable growing. The market bustles daily,
and you'll see piles and piles of cabbages, limes, chilis, güisquil (a squashlike vegetable),
onions and other gorgeous veggies, handled by hordes of women in embroidered aprons.
Don't miss the Iglesia de San Pedro , which has a gilded altarpiece with a backdrop of incon-
gruous neon lights, and an inverted galleon ceiling. Almolonga celebrates its annual fair on
June 27.