Things To Do
in Santo Domingo Xenacoj

A thick, savory meat and vegetable stew made with roasted spices and seeds; commonly served with rice and tortillas. Found in town comedores and during festivals.

Must-Try!

Small, firm tamales wrapped in corn husk, usually filled with tomato-based sauce and meat or cheese; a popular snack at markets and street stalls.

Regional varieties of tamales—sweet and savory—made with corn dough and fillings; available at morning markets and family kitchens.

Locally grown coffee with bright acidity and floral notes; many fincas offer tours and tastings.

Small town market where vendors sell produce, tortillas, tamales, chuchitos and prepared comidas; great for tasting local snacks and buying fresh fruit.

On market days and during patron-saint festivals, temporary stalls offer grilled foods, sweets and local drinks—look for atoles and fresh fruit aguas de sabor.

Always greet shopkeepers and neighbors with a polite 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes.' A friendly handshake and eye contact are customary.

Show respect during religious events and processions—observe quietly, dress modestly for church, and ask before photographing people, especially during ceremonies.

Use 'usted' (formal you) in initial interactions with elders and officials; locals appreciate politeness and humble behavior.

Dress modestly in town and when visiting religious sites. Avoid loud or disruptive behavior and refrain from public displays that could be seen as disrespectful.

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants leave around 10% if service is good; for guides and drivers 5–10% is common. Small gratuities (Q5–Q20) for porters or helpful staff are typical.

Local currency is the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ). Cash is king in Santo Domingo Xenacoj—carry small bills and coins for market purchases. Credit/debit cards are uncommon in small comedores; larger cafés or tourist sites may accept cards. ATMs are available in larger nearby towns (e.g., Antigua or Chimaltenango).

Short, locally maintained trails up nearby hills that offer sunrise and sunset views over the valley and volcano silhouettes. Suitable for half-day hikes and accessible from the town center.

Guided or self-guided walks through coffee plantations and agricultural terraces—good for photography, learning about coffee cultivation and birdwatching.

Pacaya Volcano is a popular half-day to full-day excursion arranged from Antigua or nearby towns; though not in town, it’s a common organized trip for visitors based in the region and offers volcanic landscapes and lava fields (conditions vary—go with a licensed guide).

Longer hikes and multi-hour routes connect rural communities and offer immersion in local life and varied scenery—best undertaken with a local guide familiar with trail conditions.

Guatemala City's main international airport; the most practical gateway for Santo Domingo Xenacoj. Ground travel to the town typically takes under two hours depending on traffic and route, with shuttle or taxi options from Antigua or Guatemala City.

Antigua and surrounding areas host small private airstrips and charter services for domestic flights or private planes—useful for specialized travel arrangements but not regular commercial service.

Vegetarian options are available but limited; you’ll find beans, rice, vegetable stews and egg dishes in comedores. Ask for ‘sin carne’ (without meat) and be explicit about no chicken broth. Markets sell fresh fruits and vegetables for self-catering.

Vegan options are scarcer; carry snacks and be ready to request meals without dairy or eggs. Plant-based protein can be found in beans, lentils and some vegetable preparations.

Corn-based foods (tortillas, tamales) are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination with wheat can occur. Communicate clearly and favor freshly made corn items.

Tap water may not be safe for travelers—drink bottled or filtered water and avoid ice from unknown sources. Eat hot, freshly cooked food and peel fruit when possible.