TODOS SANTOS

If asked to pick a favorite spot in all of Guatemala, the village of  Todos Santos would be on the top of many travelers' lists, for tourist like backpackers or adventurers.  The setting is spectacular and the people are exceptionally friendly.  There are no first class facilities here. 

Todos Santos is the heartland of the Mam people and most still wear their native costume, which is quite beautiful for both the men and women.  You will see men busy crocheting the distinctive handbag used in Todos Santos.

A tradition that has been carried on for years is the famous horse race held on November 1st of each year.  The participants have to down large doses of alcohol as part of the competition and it turns into a fairly wild event.

There are many wonderful hikes from Todos Santos into the neighboring small villages.  Walking along the trail to San Juan Atitán, you will pass an outdoor shrine composed of crosses not only of the Christian variety but also of the Mam's.  

The Mayans have continued practicing their own pre-Conquest religion in this area despite the saturation of both Catholicism and the newer evangelical push.

Legend has it that Todos Santos was one of the last villages to be conquered by the Spanish. 

GETTING HERE: A few buses run each day to Todos Santos, leaving Huehuetenango early in the morning at 4:00am and 11:00am from 2 street on zona 1. The ride is about 4 hours on a dirt road. 

ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotels from $0 to $15 only, very basic. Here are the most recommended: Pensión Lucía, Hospedaje La Paz, Pensión Tres Olguitas. 

LEARN SPANISH: Proyecto Lingúistico de Español became one of the first language schools in Todos Santos. The school is located  downtown. Recommended

Nuevo Amanecer Spanish School at 1 block west of downtown . Recommended.

Hispano Maya, School of Spanish and Mam, founded by a group of local teachers. Also good.

Recommended Link Stetson University