2 Day Tour: Chichicastenango Market and Lake Atitlan from Antigua

Antigua , Guatemala

2 Day Tour: Chichicastenango Market and Lake Atitlan from Antigua

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(2 reviews)

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This 2-day tour will depart from Antigua for a journey to the highland of Guatemala. On day 1, we are going to visit the alive highland of Guatemala, visiting the Colorful Market of Chichicastenango. It is well known for its famous market days on Thursdays and Sundays. In the afternoon we transfer to Lake Atitlan (Panajachel) to spend the night. This tour does not include accommodation. On day 2, we visit Santiago Atitlan Village by boat tour, and return to Antigua Guatemala or Guatemala City

Available options

2 Day Tour: Chichicastenango Market and Lake Atitlan from Antigua

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Driver/guide

Lake cruise

Air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pickup (selected hotels only)

Walking tour at Chichicastenango Market

What's not included

Excess luggage charges (where applicable)

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Accommodations. Please indicate where you will stay at in Panajachel

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Minimum of 2 passengers (adults) is required for the tour to run. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable

To find pictures of our experiences, search us on Instagram as @graylinetoursgt

Meeting point

These are our pick up points for our excursion. Please select your pick up point and be 15 minutes prior the starting time.

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable
• Contact Us: reserve@graylineguatemala.com :(502) 24410189 or (502) 54586888 You must Gray Line Guatemala at least 48 hours before your departure. Please contact us by e-mail for details of your tour (pick up time and place) On the day of your tour please present your printed voucher confirmation

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About Antigua

Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and vibrant culture. Nestled in the Central Highlands of Guatemala, it offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and colonial charm.

Top Attractions

Arco de Santa Catalina

This iconic archway is a symbol of Antigua. Built in the 17th century, it was originally part of a convent and was used by nuns to cross the street without being seen. Today, it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.

Historical/Architecture 30 minutes Free

Cerro de la Cruz

A short hike up this hill rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes. The cross at the top is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset.

Nature/Historical 1-2 hours Free

Volcán Pacaya

One of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala, Pacaya offers exciting hiking and the opportunity to see lava flows up close. Guided tours typically include a visit to a local farm for a traditional meal.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate to expensive, depending on the tour

Museo de Arte Precolombino y Vidrio Moderno

Housed in the beautiful Casa Popenoe, this museum showcases a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and contemporary glass art. The museum's courtyard and gardens are also worth exploring.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate

Café Sky

A popular café and cultural center, Café Sky offers a variety of coffee drinks, live music, and art exhibitions. It's a great place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pepián

A rich and flavorful stew made with meat (usually chicken or pork), vegetables, and a complex blend of spices. It's often considered the national dish of Guatemala.

Main dish Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Tamales

Steamed corn dough filled with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or cheese, wrapped in banana leaves. Guatemalan tamales are unique and delicious.

Snack/Street food Contains meat, vegetarian options available

Rellenitos de Plátano

Sweet fried dough made from ripe plantains, filled with sweetened black beans. A popular dessert or snack in Guatemala.

Dessert Vegetarian, vegan options available

Atol de Elote

A sweet and creamy drink made from fresh corn, milk, and sugar. It's a popular breakfast or snack, often enjoyed with tamales.

Drink/Dessert Vegetarian, vegan options available

Popular Activities

Volcano hiking (Pacaya, Acatenango, Fuego) Mountain biking Zip-lining and canopy tours Coffee tasting at local cafes Spa and wellness treatments Strolling through the historic center and parks Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

December to April (Dry season)

This is the most popular time to visit Antigua due to the dry weather and pleasant temperatures. It's ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and nearby volcanoes.

15-26°C 59-79°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)

Time Zone

CST (UTC -6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Antigua is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
• Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

La Aurora International Airport • 45 km (28 miles)

By bus

Terminal de Occidente (San Cristóbal Totonicapán)

Getting around

Public transport

Chicken buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are colorful, shared minibuses that follow specific routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Histórico Jardín del Paseo Barrio de la Mercado

Day trips

Lake Atitlán

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

Lake Atitlán is a stunning highland lake surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages. It's known for its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.

Chichicastenango Market

80 km (50 miles) • Half day to full day

One of the largest and most colorful markets in Central America, Chichicastenango offers a vibrant mix of traditional crafts, textiles, and local produce. It's a great place to experience the local culture and find unique souvenirs.

Volcán Acatenango

40 km (25 miles) • Overnight

One of the highest volcanoes in Central America, Acatenango offers challenging hikes and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The summit offers panoramic views of nearby volcanoes, including the active Fuego.