Fuentes Georginas
Quetzaltenango, Guatemala
Sulfur pools in highland cloud forest on the flank of Zunil volcano
Fuentes Georginas sits at roughly 2,500 metres in cloud forest on the slopes of Zunil volcano, about 8 km up a steep road from the town of Zunil near Quetzaltenango. Sulfurous water from the Zunil geothermal field fills a large main pool and a few smaller ones, and fern-covered walls and drifting mist make the setting. No official temperature is published; visitors describe the main pool as warm, getting hotter toward the back where water enters through the rock.
Down about 280 steps, a set of five smaller and hotter pools costs a little extra and is off-limits to children. Entry is Q60 for foreign visitors, plus parking, cash only. Bungalows with their own stone tubs fed by the spring cost around Q190 per person with entry, and staying lets you soak after day visitors leave.
Taxis and tuk-tuks at the Zunil bridge make the trip up; arrange your ride back in advance because phone signal is poor. Bring warm clothes, as the air is cold. The honest downside: the main pool can feel only lukewarm, and getting down again without a pre-booked ride can be a hassle.
What's in the water
- SulfurThe rotten-egg smell. Sulfur springs are the classic "healing waters" of old spa towns; the smell fades on your skin within a few hours.
Sources
Hot springs near Fuentes Georginas
Off the GridSalto de MalacatiupánAhuachapán, El SalvadorHot and cold rivers collide in a waterfall you can soak beneath for a dollarWild pool · 37°C / 99°F · $LuxuryTermales de Santa TeresaAhuachapán, El SalvadorMore than 30 volcanic pools, mud baths and a temazcal at a hotel near AtacoResort · 38°C / 100°F · $Off the GridNacimiento de Agua Termal JerezJutiapa, GuatemalaWild poolOff the GridAusol de AtacoAhuachapan, El SalvadorLook, don't soakOff the GridAusoles de AhuachapanAhuachapan, El SalvadorLook, don't soakRun this spring or resort? Claim this listing · Report a correction