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This place is the best developed climbing area in Guatemala. It is definitely worth checking out if you are in Guatemala and want to do some climbing. The city of Quetzaltenango is a perfect place to take some Spanish classes and do a little climbing. This is also some of the coolest climbing in the country as the crag is located above 9000 ft.
The routes start at 5.9 and go to 5.12, though the locals may call some of the routes 5.13. There is also a 5.14 project. There is definitely potential for news routes and the local climbers are working hard to add new lines. Most of the routes are bolted but there is some potential for gear routes. There are boulders everywhere though many are sharp and chossy. Most of the landings are bad, so a pad and spotter is advisable.
There are two main areas, Chicua and La Muela. Chicua has all the sport routes, but there are cliffs and boulders at the two places. I looked for routes at La Muela but never found any. Though there does exist the potential for easy bolted routes in this area.
The interesting thing about this place is that area evangelicals use it to practice choir and prayer, so you will hear Christian choir music echo of the walls. It is quite a spectacle on its own. As in most of Central America, Sunday is the best day to meet local climbers. All are very friendly and excited to have people visit the crag.
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