How to Plan Your 3-Day Tour of Lake Atitlan & Chichicastenango Market in Antigua Guatemala

If you’re looking for a unique and fascinating experience in Guatemala, you need to visit Chichicastenango Market and Lake Atitlan. These two places offer some of the most breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences in the country. Here’s a guide on how to plan your 3-day tour of Lake Atitlan and Chichicastenango Market.

Day 1: Exploring Chichicastenango Market

The first stop on your 3-day tour is Chichicastenango Market. The market is open on Thursdays and Sundays, so you’ll need to plan your trip accordingly. The market is known for its colorful fabrics, intricate handicrafts, and fresh produce. Start your day early, as the market gets crowded quickly. You can wander through the labyrinth of stalls and experience the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of souvenirs to buy, such as woven blankets, pottery, and jewelry. Next, head to the Church of Santo Tomas, which is located next to the market. This 16th-century church is an important religious and cultural center for the Maya people. You can observe age-old Mayan rituals being performed in front of the church, which is an incredible experience.

Day 2: Cruising Lake Atitlan

On the second day of your tour, you’ll explore the stunning beauty of Lake Atitlan. The lake is surrounded by three towering volcanoes: Atitlan, Toliman, and San Pedro, making for some of the most picturesque views in the world. Start your day with a cruise on the lake, and soak in the pristine natural beauty. The cruise takes you to some of the traditional Mayan villages located along the lake. You’ll disembark at these villages to explore and learn about their unique cultures. One of the most famous villages that you’ll visit is Santiago Atitlan. Here, you’ll find traditional Mayan weaving techniques, as well as the Maximon shrine, a spiritual figure revered by the local people.

Day 3: Exploring Panajachel

The final day of your tour is dedicated to exploring the vibrant atmosphere of Panajachel. This town is located on the shores of Lake Atitlan and is known for its lively nightlife. You can spend your morning exploring the town’s markets, where you’ll find unique souvenirs and handicrafts. Grab a bite to eat at one of the town’s many cafes, and prepare for an evening of entertainment. In the evening, head to one of the town’s lively bars or clubs for an unforgettable night of dancing and mingling with the locals.

Booking Your Tour

To book your 3-day tour of Lake Atitlan and Chichicastenango Market, visit the following link: book the tour here. This tour is offered by a third-party company, but has received excellent reviews from travelers who have taken the tour. In conclusion, a 3-day tour of Lake Atitlan and Chichicastenango Market is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Guatemala. With its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant atmosphere, this tour has something for everyone. Follow this guide to plan an unforgettable trip to Antigua Guatemala.

Antigua Guatemala FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Antigua Guatemala, also known as just Antigua, is a charming colonial city in the southern highlands of Guatemala. It is famous for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic ruins. If you are planning to visit Antigua, you probably have some questions. In this FAQ, we will answer everything you need to know before traveling to Antigua.

General Questions

1. Where is Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua Guatemala is located in the south-central region of Guatemala, about 25 miles (40 km) southwest of Guatemala City. It is situated in the Valley of Panchoy, surrounded by three volcanoes: Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango.

2. What is the time zone in Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua Guatemala is in the Central Standard Time Zone (GMT-6).

3. What currency is used in Antigua Guatemala?

The local currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). US dollars are widely accepted in most places, but it’s always best to carry local currency.

4. What language is spoken in Antigua Guatemala?

The official language is Spanish. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Travel Questions

1. What is the best way to get to Antigua Guatemala?

The closest international airport is La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle (book in advance) to Antigua. It takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to get there, depending on traffic.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Antigua Guatemala?

Citizens of most countries, including the United States, Canada, and most Western European nations, do not need a visa to visit Guatemala. You will only need a valid passport and a return ticket.

3. When is the best time to visit Antigua Guatemala?

The best time to visit Antigua Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds than during the peak season (December and Easter week).

Sightseeing Questions

1. What are the best things to see in Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua is full of historic sites, museums, and colonial architecture. Some of the top attractions include the Santa Catalina Arch, Antigua Cathedral, San Francisco Church, and the Jade Museum. You can also take day trips to Pacaya Volcano, Lake Atitlan, and other nearby destinations.

2. How do I get around Antigua Guatemala?

The best way to get around Antigua Guatemala is on foot. The city center is small, and walking is the best way to explore the narrow streets and historic sites. Taxis and tuk-tuks also operate throughout the city and can be hired for short trips.

3. What are the best day trips from Antigua Guatemala?

There are many day trips you can take from Antigua, including visits to the villages of San Juan Comalapa, San Antonio Aguas Calientes, and Santiago Atitlan. You can also visit Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango Market, and the Mayan ruins of Tikal.

Food and Drink Questions

1. What is the local cuisine in Antigua Guatemala?

The local cuisine in Antigua Guatemala is a mixture of Spanish, Mayan, and African influences. Typical dishes include pepian (a rich meat stew), chiles rellenos (stuffed chili peppers), and tamales.

2. What are the best restaurants in Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua Guatemala has a diverse culinary scene, with many restaurants offering international cuisine. Some of the best restaurants include Cafe Sky (rooftop bar and restaurant), Fridas (Mexican and international food), and Porque No? (tacos and craft beer).

3. What is the local drink in Antigua Guatemala?

The local drink in Antigua Guatemala is coffee. Guatemala is one of the top coffee-producing countries in the world, and Antigua has some of the best coffee shops in the country. You can also try local beers, such as Gallo and Cabro.

Book Your Tour Now

We hope this Antigua Guatemala FAQ has answered all your questions about traveling to this charming colonial city. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Antigua is a must-visit destination in Guatemala. Don’t forget to explore the city’s narrow streets, try the local cuisine, and take in the gorgeous views of the surrounding volcanoes.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala, or simply Antigua, is a small city located in the central highlands of Guatemala. The city is famous for its colonial-style buildings, colorful streets, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. If you’re planning a trip to Antigua, here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in this charming city.

Step 1: Visit the Central Park

The Central Park of Antigua Guatemala is located in the heart of the city, surrounded by colonial-style buildings and a stunning view of the Agua Volcano. The park is a great place to start your tour of the city, as it offers a variety of things to do and see. First, take a stroll around the park and admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings surrounding it. You can also sit on one of the benches and people-watch, as this is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. If you’re feeling hungry, head to one of the food vendors located around the park and try some of the local street food. Don’t forget to try the “gallo pinto,” a traditional dish made of rice and beans. Finally, check out the local artisans selling their crafts in the park. You can find handmade textiles, ceramics, and jewelry that make for great souvenirs.

Step 2: Explore the Ruins

Antigua Guatemala is home to many ancient ruins that reflect the city’s history as a former capital of Guatemala. The most famous of these ruins is the Cathedral of Santiago, which was destroyed by earthquakes and left in ruins. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can climb to the top to enjoy a stunning view of the city. Other notable ruins include the Santo Domingo Monastery and the La Recoleccion Church. They all offer a glimpse into the colonial-era architecture and history of the city.

Step 3: Visit the Museums

Antigua is home to many museums that provide insight into the city’s rich history and culture. The most famous of these museums is the Museo de Santiago, located in the ruins of the Cathedral of Santiago. Here, you can learn about the history of the city and the culture of the ancient Mayans who used to inhabit the area. Other museums worth visiting include the Museo del Jade, which showcases beautiful jade artifacts from ancient Mayan times, and the Casa Santo Domingo Museum, which displays art and artifacts from the colonial period.

Step 4: Take a Coffee Tour

Guatemala is known for its high-quality coffee, and Antigua is home to some of the best coffee farms in the world. Take a coffee tour to learn about the process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans. During the tour, you’ll get to taste different varieties of coffee and learn about the different growing regions and their unique flavors. Some popular coffee farms to visit include the Finca Filadelfia and the La Azotea Cultural Center.

Step 5: Climb a Volcano

Antigua Guatemala is surrounded by beautiful volcanoes, and visitors can hike to the tops of some of them for amazing views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Two popular volcanoes to climb are Pacaya and Acatenango. Pacaya is the easiest to climb and offers stunning views of the active volcano. Acatenango is a more challenging hike, taking two days to complete, but the views of Agua, Fuego, and Pacaya are unparalleled.

Step 6: Party at Night

Antigua Guatemala has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Head to the Cafe No Se, Casa Troccoli, or Whiskey Den for live music, drinks, and dancing. If you’re looking for a more traditional experience, try a Latin dance class at Salsa y Sabor, or watch traditional Guatemalan dance performances at the Centro Cultural La Azotea.

Final Thoughts

Antigua Guatemala is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Central America. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this charming city. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the most out of your time as a tourist in Antigua Guatemala.