Mixco

Introduction

Mixco sits right beside Guatemala City and has become part of the Guatemala City Metropolitan Area, making it a natural extension of the capital for travellers exploring the region. Much of the city is separated from Guatemala City by canyons, and a multitude of bridges have been built to span them, so your route in or out often crosses these deep cuts in the landscape.

Within Mixco you'll find Ciudad San Cristóbal, one of the communities that make up the municipality. As one of Guatemala's largest cities, Mixco is urban and built-up rather than a quiet escape, so come expecting a busy metropolitan setting on the edge of the capital.

When to go

Mixco has a subtropical highland climate, so you can expect mild conditions throughout the year. The main thing to plan around is the pronounced wet season in the northern summer months, when frequent afternoon showers roll in and the surrounding landscape turns lush and green. If you visit during this period, be prepared for wet roads and organise any outdoor activities around the daily downpours.

The drier half of the year brings clearer skies and comfortable temperatures for exploring. Because of the elevation, mornings and evenings can feel cool even in the dry season, so pack layers you can add and remove through the day.

Three days in Mixco

Day one: Base yourself in Mixco and use it as your starting point for the Guatemala City Metropolitan Area. Because Mixco sits within the metropolitan area, you can move between the two without committing to a single base. Spend your first day getting your bearings within Mixco itself, then head toward Guatemala City to see how the two connect.

Day two: Turn your attention to Ciudad San Cristóbal, a zone of Mixco with its own character within the city. If you want a slower day, stay close and explore the streets around you rather than crossing into Guatemala City. Much of what makes Mixco distinct is found within its own neighbourhoods, so give Ciudad San Cristóbal the time it deserves.

Day three: Use your last day to fill the gaps. If you missed anything in Guatemala City, make the trip now; if not, return to the parts of Mixco you liked most. Because the Guatemala City Metropolitan Area links everything together, you can shape the day around whatever you still want to see before you leave Guatemala.