A fully accessible hotel in the Western Highlands of Guatemala – guest blog by Lisa Bernfeld
Eco-Guest House Moving Up: The Only Fully Accessible Hotel in Guatemala
In keeping with its commitment to serve a diversity of guests, the Eco-Guest House in San Martín, a top-rated boutique hotel nestled in the lush Western Highlands of Guatemala, has become the first and only fully wheelchair accessible hotel in the region with the installation of new glass elevators.
8500 feet up in the misty highlands
“Our new elevators demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity, comfort, and thoughtful hospitality,” said Elmer Mazariegos, National Director of Local Hope, the non-profit community service organization that operates the hotel. “With the addition of the elevators, guests with mobility needs, seniors, families with strollers, and travelers seeking added convenience can now easily access all three floors of the building and surrounding wheelchair-accessible pathways.”
This improvement positions the Eco-Guest House as an ideal choice for tour operators, travel advisors, and international visitors seeking accommodations that prioritize both personal needs and convenience.
Located about 8,500 feet up in the misty highlands at the base of the popular hiking destination, sacred Lake Chicabál, this charming guesthouse is a rare find. It features 12 spacious, comfortable, and especially well-appointed rooms and ensuite bathrooms with hot running water and full-pressure hot showers, soft towels and in-room electric heaters – plus robust Wi-Fi, an uncommon feature in the region. The Eco-Guest House is the only accommodation in the area to score an overall five-star rating from Airbnb guests and to provide this level of comfort – and now, elevator-access to both the Eco-Guest House and the “El Comal” eatery that provides food service.
Local Hope Guatemala
Operated by the 34-year-old non-profit Local Hope Guatemala, the Eco-Guest House offers a welcome respite to serve as home base after a long day of sightseeing, hiking and exploring in the area or volunteer service. Located in the village of San Martín Chiquíto, just 30 minutes from urban Quetzaltenango, Eco-Guest House offers magical views of the mountains and fields, interactive cultural tours, experiences in nature, and delicious local cuisine.
“Our goal has always been to create a welcoming environment for every traveler,” said Shirley Ramirez, Hospitality Coordinator at the Eco-Guest House at San Martin. “The new elevators reflect our dedication to ensuring that all guests can fully experience the beauty, comfort and personal attention that our hotel offers — without limitations. The Eco-Guest House is the only accommodation in the region that is fully accessible — and, as a bonus, the elevators are beautiful!”
The Eco-Guest House is one of two three-story buildings located within Local Hope’s Xela Aid Campus, which also includes a medical clinic and learning center, as well as the newly installed elevators. Local Hope, known in Guatemala as “Xela Aid,” creates and delivers health, education and economic development programs to local people and communities toward the end goal of self-reliance. A full 100% of the proceeds from Eco-Guest House and related social enterprises directly funds Local Hope’s empowerment programs in this remote, underserved area.
Local culture and community
A stay at Eco-Guest House offers guests a unique opportunity to engage in cultural exchange activities and community service via Local Hope’s ongoing volunteer programs, interacting with the indigenous Mam-Maya people in the area. Possibilities include building and distributing chicken coops, taking traditional weaving classes and Spanish lessons, learning a Mayan recipe, and more — all while getting a glimpse of Mayan life and culture.
For more robust and immersive service experiences that include volunteering directly with children and families, Local Hope offers Custom Service Trips. These organized volunteer programs combine volunteer service in San Martín Chiquíto with sightseeing and activities in the area. Options include flexible packages of day, overnight, two-week and totally customizable trips, such as:
- Two-week or extended stay, turn-key volunteer packages for one or more people with Sunday start dates
- “Build-Your-Own Trip” for trip leaders or individuals who want to create a fully customized experience that works for their schedule and interests
- Full-day and overnight volunteering, cultural experiences and local exploration
- Hiking and culture – full day and overnight to Sacred Lake Chicabál; birdwatching excursions to the Quetzal Refuge (February – May)
For Overnight or Extended Stays — Eco-Guest House Information
- $65 per room/night includes breakfast for two guests, with a minimal charge added for third person
- One comfortable queen bed and single bed per room (three people maximum)
- Adjoining rooms available
- Traditional lunch and dinner by arrangement
