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

Are you planning a trip to Guatemala but don’t know where to start? Well, we have the perfect tour itinerary for you! This 3-day tour will take you to two of the most beautiful and culturally rich places in Guatemala: Lake Atitlan and the Chichicastenango Market. And the best part? You don’t have to worry about planning anything yourself – just book the tour and let the experts take care of everything for you.

Experience

This tour is packed full of incredible experiences that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Here are just a few of the highlights:

– Visit the famous market of Chichicastenango, where you will find amazing handicrafts created by the indigenous Maya people. Witness an incessant exchange of fruits and vegetables and immerse yourself in the colorful, vibrant atmosphere.

– Admire the Church of the Santo Tomas, a 16th-century church in the heart of Chichicastenango. Here you can observe age-old Mayan rituals being performed, giving you a unique and fascinating insight into the local culture.

– Enjoy a cruise on beautiful Lake Atitlan, surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages. Marvel at the views of Atitlan Toliman and San Pedro volcanoes, which dominate the skyline and create a breathtaking panorama.

– Explore traditional Mayan villages, including San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlan. These villages are home to local artisans who create beautiful textiles and other handicrafts using traditional methods passed down through generations.

– Experience the nightlife of Panajachel, where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks in a lively and vibrant setting.

– Immerse yourself in colorful Mayan culture, learning about the traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations.

Day 1: Antigua to Chichicastenango

Your tour will begin in Antigua, where you will be picked up by your guide and taken to Chichicastenango. The journey takes around four hours, but the stunning scenery along the way makes it a journey to remember.

Once you arrive in Chichicastenango, you will have the afternoon to explore the town and its famous market. Take your time to wander through the stalls, taking in the sights and scents of this vibrant marketplace. You will also visit the Church of Santo Tomas, where you can witness Mayan rituals being performed.

In the evening, you will be taken to your hotel in Chichicastenango, where you can relax and unwind after a busy day.

Day 2: Chichicastenango to Lake Atitlan

After breakfast at your hotel, you will be picked up and taken to Lake Atitlan, where you will board a boat for a cruise around the lake. The views from the boat are simply stunning, with the volcanoes dominating the skyline and the traditional Mayan villages dotted around the shoreline.

You will visit two of these villages, San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlan, where you can learn about the local culture and traditions. You will also have the opportunity to witness local artisans at work, creating beautiful textiles and handicrafts using traditional methods.

In the evening, you will be taken to your hotel in Panajachel, where you can explore the local nightlife and enjoy some delicious local cuisine.

Day 3: Lake Atitlan to Antigua

On your final day, you will have some free time to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Panajachel before being picked up and taken back to Antigua. You will arrive in Antigua in the late afternoon, with plenty of time to explore this beautiful colonial city before the day comes to an end.

How to Book

Booking this tour is easy – simply visit the following link to book online: book the tour here. Don’t forget to check the availability of the tour before booking, and if you have any questions, the expert team at GetYourGuide are always on hand to help.

Conclusion

This 3-day tour of Lake Atitlan and the Chichicastenango Market is the perfect way to experience the best that Guatemala has to offer. With expert guides, comfortable accommodation, and unforgettable experiences, this tour is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and get ready to explore the fascinating culture and stunning landscapes of Guatemala.

An Insider’s Guide to Lake Atitlan & Chichicastenango Market

If you’re planning a 3-day tour of Lake Atitlan and Chichicastenango Market, there are a few hidden gems that only locals know about that are worth adding to your itinerary.

Local Attractions

While most tourists flock to the lake’s three main towns, there are plenty of lesser-known villages and towns that are worth exploring. San Antonio Palopo is a small village known for its traditional clay pottery. San Juan La Laguna is a hub for the local textile industry. Both of these villages offer a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the local Maya people.

Another hidden gem is a hike up Indian Nose, a mountain peak above the lake that offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes.

Dining Spots

Guatemalan cuisine is a mix of indigenous Maya, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. Local specialties include Pepian, a spicy stew made with chicken or pork, and Chiles Rellenos, stuffed chili peppers. For a unique dining experience, head to La Iguana Perdida in Santa Cruz La Laguna, which is known for its vegetarian cuisine and nightly live music by local musicians.

Cultural Experiences

Lake Atitlan is steeped in traditional Maya culture, and visitors can learn about the local customs and traditions through various cultural experiences. Visit the Casa del Mundo cultural center in Jaibalito, which offers workshops on traditional Maya textiles, cooking, and language.

Additionally, visitors can witness the various festivals and celebrations throughout the year, such as the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) on November 1st and All Saints’ Day on November 2nd.

Local History

One little-known fact about Lake Atitlan is that it was once a site of the ancient Maya civilization. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city of Santiago Atitlan and visit the Tz’utujil Maya Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the Maya people in the region.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the nearby village of San Marcos La Laguna, which is known for its yoga and wellness retreats. You can also visit the Natural Reserve of Atitlan, which offers nature walks, zip-lining, and a butterfly and hummingbird garden.

Overall, Lake Atitlan and Chichicastenango Market offer a rich and diverse experience that goes beyond the conventional tourist hotspots. By exploring the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, you can gain a deeper appreciation and connection with the local culture and leave with unforgettable memories.