Full Day Tour: Chichicastenango Maya Market and Lake Atitlan From Guatemala City

Enjoy the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Guatemala with this full-day tour from Guatemala City. Discover the colorful Chichicastenango Maya Market, where locals gather to showcase their handcrafted wares, and be captivated by the sacred rituals at the historic Santo Tomas Church. Then, journey to the stunning shores of Lake Atitlan, surrounded by volcanic peaks and picturesque villages. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this experience promises to be the highlight of your Guatemalan adventure. What secrets await on this cultural exploration?

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Guatemala City to the vibrant Chichicastenango Maya Market and the scenic Lake Atitlan, lasting approximately 12 hours.
• The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, round-trip hotel transport, and an optional lunch upgrade, priced from $90 per person with a minimum of 2 adults.
• Highlights include immersing in the bustling market, experiencing colonial architecture and indigenous rituals at Santo Tomas Church, and exploring the picturesque town of Panjachel on Lake Atitlan’s shores.
• The tour is not suitable for guests with mobility issues, but families can bring children with reduced rates when sharing with 2 paying adults.
• The tour has a rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on 22 reviews, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides and immersive market experience, though some travelers felt there was insufficient time at Lake Atitlan.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Guatemala City takes travelers to the vibrant Chichicastenango Maya Market and the stunning Lake Atitlan.

The 12-hour excursion highlights the colonial architecture and indigenous rituals of Chichicastenango, as well as the picturesque Panjachel town on Lake Atitlan’s shores.

Included in the tour are a knowledgeable guide, round-trip hotel transport, and an optional lunch upgrade.

A knowledgeable guide, round-trip hotel transport, and an optional lunch upgrade are included in this full-day tour from Guatemala City.

Priced from $90 per person, the tour requires a minimum of 2 adults and has a maximum of 15 travelers.

While not wheelchair accessible, the air-conditioned vehicle provides comfortable transportation during the day’s activities.

Itinerary Details

The tour allows visitors to enjoy the vibrant Chichicastenango market, where they’ll discover the colonial architecture and witness indigenous rituals at the Santo Tomas Church.

In Panjachel on the shores of Lake Atitlan, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking views.

The tour includes:

• Browsing the market’s wide selection of handicrafts, food, and more

• Experiencing the unique cultural traditions of the indigenous people

• Exploring the picturesque town of Panjachel

• Optional lunch upgrade with a vegetarian option available upon request

Transportation and Accessibility

Pickup for the tour is available from designated points in Guatemala City, with the Hotel Panamerican serving as the gathering spot for those lodging in Zone 1.

An air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the journey. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility issues should consider this before booking.

A minimum of 2 adults is required for the tour to proceed, with a maximum of 15 travelers. Families can bring children, who pay reduced rates when sharing with 2 paying adults, though infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Tour Experience and Reviews

Travelers have rated the Chichicastenango Maya Market Tour 3.9 out of 5 based on 22 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and the vibrant, immersive market experience. However, some travelers felt there was too little time spent at the picturesque Lake Atitlan and too many additional stops in Antigua.

To make the most of this tour, travelers recommend:

• Wearing comfortable walking shoes

• Bringing a hat, sunglasses, and camera

• Requesting a vegetarian lunch option, if desired

• Being aware that the tour isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions.

Additional Information

Upon booking, travelers receive confirmation and are eligible for free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour.

Child rates apply when sharing with 2 paying adults, while infants must sit on laps. This tour isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions.

Guests can find tour photos on the company’s Instagram account, @graylinetoursgt.

Highlights of Chichicastenango

As visitors arrive in Chichicastenango, they’re immediately immersed in the vibrant sights and sounds of the bustling Maya market.

The air is filled with the aroma of local cuisine, the lively chatter of vendors, and the colorful displays of handmade textiles, pottery, and artisanal crafts.

Aromas of local cuisine, lively chatter of vendors, and vibrant displays of handmade textiles, pottery, and artisanal crafts fill the air.

Highlights include:

• Browsing the stalls for unique souvenirs and gifts

• Witnessing traditional Mayan rituals at the iconic Santo Tomas Church

• Exploring the charming colonial architecture and cobblestone streets

• Engaging with the friendly local community and learning about their rich cultural heritage

Exploring Lake Atitlan

After experiencing the vibrant energy of Chichicastenango’s market, the tour moves on to explore the breathtaking natural wonder of Lake Atitlan.

The group travels to the town of Panjachel, situated on the lake’s shores. Visitors take in the stunning views of the massive volcanic calderas and Mayan villages dotting the shoreline.

Optional lunch is available, allowing travelers to sample local cuisine. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour offers an opportunity to witness the natural beauty and indigenous culture surrounding the lake.

With its picturesque landscapes, Lake Atitlan provides a tranquil contrast to the bustling market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Safety Precautions Taken During the Tour?

The tour company ensures passenger safety by providing air-conditioned vehicles and knowledgeable guides. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and those with serious medical conditions should avoid it. Travelers are advised to wear proper footwear and bring sun protection.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Market and How Much Cash Is Needed?

Travelers can purchase a variety of handicrafts, textiles, and local produce at the vibrant Chichicastenango market. It’s recommended to bring around $50-$100 in local currency to comfortably browse and bargain for souvenirs throughout the bustling marketplace.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

While the tour has a set itinerary, you can customize it by requesting changes to the duration at each stop or adding optional activities like lunch. Contact the tour operator to discuss personalized preferences before booking.

What Type of Cuisine Is Typically Served for the Optional Lunch?

The optional lunch typically offers traditional Guatemalan cuisine, which may include dishes like pepián (a meat stew), tamales, and vegetarian options like beans and rice. Travelers can request a vegetarian meal if desired.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for This Tour?

While no specific discounts are mentioned, the tour does offer an optional lunch upgrade. Travelers can also save by sharing the tour with other paying adults, as child rates apply when booking with two adults.

The Sum Up

This captivating full-day tour offers a perfect blend of culture and breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the vibrant Chichicastenango Maya Market, witness indigenous rituals, and marvel at the stunning shores of Lake Atitlan. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this experience promises unforgettable memories of Guatemala’s rich heritage, making it a must-do for any traveler seeking to enjoy the country’s vibrant traditions and landscapes.