How to Plan Your Tour to Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan from Guatemala City

If you are planning a trip to Guatemala City and you want to experience the authenticity of the Mayan culture combined with a symphony of colors coming from the typical dress of Chichicastenango, and see Atitlan Lake, considered one of the wonders of the world, then you need to plan a tour to Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to visit the region of Guatemala’s Western Highlands, which is home to quaint and colorful mountain villages, highland lakes, pine forests, and the majority of Guatemala’s indigenous peoples.

One of the most reasonable choices is to book the Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan tour from GetYourGuide, a trusted online travel platform that makes it easy to find, compare, and book tours and activities worldwide. With this tour, you’ll get a chance to see the breathtaking scenery of the Western Highlands and experience the rich culture of the indigenous peoples of Guatemala.

Tour Highlights

Before we dive into planning the tour, let’s talk about some of the highlights you’ll experience on this tour:

• Experience the authenticity of the Mayan culture combined with a symphony of colors coming from the typical dress of Chichicastenango
• Visit the colorful market at Chichicastenango where you can find everything from food to handmade objects
• See Atitlan Lake considered as one of the wonders of the world
• Enjoy the views of Lake Atitlan and the towns surrounding Panajachel

Tour Description

The tour begins with you being picked up from your hotel in Guatemala City and heading towards Chichicastenango, which is located in the department of Quiche, a 2-hour drive from Guatemala City. You will drive along the Pan-American Highway and through the beautiful and scenic mountain region of Guatemala. On the way, your guide will point out significant landmarks and explain local culture and customs.

Arrive at Chichicastenango Market and begin your walking tour inside the market. It is the center of the town and heart of commercial life for the maxeños. The merchants go down to the central plaza every Thursday and Sunday to sell their products in this impressive indigenous market that has been functioning since pre-hispanic times.

After the market visit, you will take a scenic drive through the highlands to Lake Atitlan with its three volcanoes and eleven indigenous villages. First, you will visit the town of Panajachel, one of the largest towns on the lake, with a beautiful view of the volcanoes and the lake. Here, you will have free time to explore the town on your own, go shopping, grab a bite, or simply enjoy the beautiful views.

From Panajachel, you will take a 30-minute boat ride to the village of Santiago Atitlan, located on the southwest shore of the lake. Santiago is a charming and authentic village with a rich history and culture. Here, you will have a guided tour of the village with a local guide who will explain the history, culture, and traditions of the Tz’utujil Maya people, who live in this village.

At the end of the tour, you will take a 30-minute boat ride back to Panajachel and then head back to Guatemala City, arriving around 6:00 pm.

How to Book the Tour

Booking the tour is easy with GetYourGuide. Click on this link book the tour here, and you’ll be taken to the tour’s page on GetYourGuide’s website. Choose the date you want to go on the tour, select the number of people, and complete the booking process. It’s that simple.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan tour is a perfect way to experience the authentic Mayan culture, see the beauty of the Western Highlands, and explore the charming and colorful villages of Guatemala. With GetYourGuide, you can easily book the tour and make the most of your trip without any hassle.

An Insider’s Guide to Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua, a small and picturesque colonial town located in the central highlands of Guatemala, is a treasure trove of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Here are some insider’s tips that will take you beyond the usual tourist spots and allow you to explore some of the local’s favourite places.

Local Attractions

When you think of Antigua, the first things that come to mind are the iconic Santa Catalina Arch or Volcán de Agua, but there is so much more! Visit the lesser-known Casa Santo Domingo Museum, which showcases stunning architecture and impressive art collections. Another must-see is the Iglesia de La Merced, a 16th-century church perched on top of a hill, boasting breath-taking views of the entire city.

For a less conventional experience, discover the lesser-known El Hato waterfall in the nearby mountains or take a cable car up to the Cerro de La Cruz, a hill with a giant cross that overlooks the city.

Dining Spots

Guatemala is known for its delicious and vibrant cuisines, and Antigua is no exception. Besides conventional restaurants serving international cuisine, be sure to try the local delicacies at the Antigua’s Mercado. Sample the hearty dish of Pepian, a dish that combines meat, spice, and vegetables in a rich and creamy sauce made from ground pumpkin seeds, or snack on some tamales purchased from street vendors. For something sweeter, try the locally made chocolates from ChocoMuseo or indulge in some exquisite coffee at Cafe Condesa.

Cultural Experience

Antigua has some vibrant cultural experiences waiting for you. The town has several annual festivals throughout the year, including The Holy Week, when various religious processions pass through streets decorated with colourful carpets made of fresh flowers. The fantastic Antigua Arts Festival, featuring street performances, live music, and art exhibits, takes place every May and is a must-see for culture lovers. For a deeper understanding of the city and the local people’s customs, explore the Mayan traditions and heritage at the Museo Casa del Tejido, where you can learn about the natural dyes and traditional weaving techniques used in the manufacture of textiles.

Local History

Antigua was founded in 1543 and has a rich history that extends back to the Mayan civilization. A visit to the Museo del Jade will take you through the story of Mayan culture through its beautifully crafted jade pieces. Check out the Catedral de Santiago, a 16th-century iconic building known for its Baroque architecture and famous for its long history of earthquakes’ impact.

Another exceptional attraction is the San Francisco Church, which was originally built in the 16th century and destroyed in 1773 during an earthquake. However, visitors can still visit the ruins, including the iconic soaring belfry, which remains an impressive testament to the time’s architectural ingenuity.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to venture beyond the norm and experience other things Antigua has to offer, venture out for a picnic to the delightful Hobbitenango, a hobbit-themed park in the mountains. Here you can trek through trails that lead to quaint hobbit houses and restaurants and lose yourself in nature’s grandeur.

Finally, partake in the city’s vibrant cultural scene and learn Salsa or any art from the artists or take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional recipes of the region.

Antigua is undoubtedly a unique and magical destination that offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into Guatemalan culture and history. By exploring the local attractions and hidden gems, visitors can get a better understanding and appreciation of all that this spectacular city has to offer.