Santa Lucia Milpas Altas

Santa Lucia Milpas Altas is a small Kaqchikel Maya village of roughly 6,000 people located about 9 km northwest of Antigua Guatemala in Sacatepéquez department. It is one of the three "Milpas Altas" communities (along with Magdalena and San Bartolome) situated at approximately 1,900 metres elevation on the cool highland plateau. Temperatures average 14–21°C, with chilly mornings year-round.

The village is agricultural and retains strong Kaqchikel cultural traditions. Traditional dress is commonly worn, and the Kaqchikel language is widely spoken. Santa Lucia sees almost no international visitors and offers an authentic highland experience.

By Plane

La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City is approximately 55 km east. Travel to Antigua (1 hour), then continue northwest.

By Car / Road

Santa Lucia Milpas Altas is accessible via local roads from Antigua Guatemala, about 25 minutes by car. From San Lucas Sacatepéquez, it is about 10 minutes. Chicken buses from Antigua or San Lucas serve the area.

The village is small and walkable. Walking between the three Milpas Altas villages takes 15–30 minutes each.

• Central plaza and parish church — a quiet village square with a colonial-era church

• Traditional Kaqchikel community — observe daily life, traditional dress, and weaving

• Highland views — the surrounding agricultural land offers panoramic views

• Walk between the Milpas Altas villages — explore the three connected communities

• Visit local weavers — observe backstrap loom weaving and purchase handmade textiles

• Experience highland rural life — the village offers a peaceful, authentic experience

One or two comedores serve basic meals for Q15–25. Options are very limited.

Bottled water is recommended. Shops sell soft drinks and beer.

• Budget: Very limited. Most visitors stay in Antigua Guatemala.
• Mid-range / Upscale: None available locally.

Small shops sell basic provisions. Local weavers sell handmade textiles including huipiles and table runners.

• Magdalena Milpas Altas (~2 km east) — neighbouring village
• San Bartolome Milpas Altas (~2 km northwest) — neighbouring village
• San Lucas Sacatepéquez (~5 km east) — highland market town
• Antigua Guatemala (~9 km southeast) — the colonial capital