Full Day Tour: Chichicastenango Maya Market and Lake Atitlan from Antigua
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Depart from Antigua early in the morning to Chichicastenango Maya market, and witness ancient Indian rituals at the Santo Tomas Church and enjoy the picturesque outdoor market where locals from the region gather to buy and sell fruits, vegetables, flowers, grains, animals, textiles and handicrafts.
Then, enjoy views at the beautiful Lake Atitlan in the Western highlands region.
Available options
Full Day Tour without Lunch
Enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Atitlan and explore the colourful fruits, vegetables, craft and textile stalls at this famous Maya market.
Tour option does not include lunch.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Lunch (if option selected)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Local guide
Driver/guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
You will be pick up in Antigua Guatemala to start a journey to the Guatemalan highlands to appreciate the colorful market of Chichicastenango and take a panoramic view considered of one of the most beautiful lakes.
2
Stop 2
Upon our arrival at the market we will start our walking tour inside the market. It is the center of the city and at the heart of commercial life of "maxeños" (name given to the indigenous people of Chichicastenango, derived from Max which means Tomás in the Quiché language). The merchants descend every Thursday and Sunday to the central square to sell their products in this impressive indigenous market that has changed very little over the centuries.
We will observe the colorful handicrafts and handmade by local inhabitants of the región also you can see various merchandise, such as clay crafts, typical textiles, fruits, vegetables, meats and seafood, flowers and the regional costumes of the place.
We are also going to visit Santo Tomás Church, built in 1540 on the basis of a pre-Hispanic archaeological temple. This church is a splendid example of colonial architecture, as the Mayan and Latin influence mixes both inside and outside of the church over time. After exploring the market you can enjoy a delicious lunch (not included, but you can add it on optionals for additional cost)
3
At the end of our walk you will be transfer to the town of Panajachel, which is located on Lake Atitlan. We will visit Calle Santander and enjoy a spectacular view of the lake which is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Three spectacular volcanoes, Tolimán, Atitlán and San Pedro form the natural framework of the lake itself
*On holy week we do not visit Atitlán.
4
At the end of our tour we return to Antigua Guatemala
What's not included
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Meals (you can add lunch optional)
Beverage
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.8
4 reviews
5★
1
4★
2
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
3.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Minimum of 2 passengers (adults) is required for the tour to run. If the minimum size is not reached, the tour is subject to cancellation and all tickets are refunded or rescheduled.
Tours include bilingual guide (English and Spanish).
It is recommended that you bring walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, and a camera.
Please contact local provider if you need a guide in any other language. French, German and Italian in private services, subject to additional costs and guide availability.
For groups of 10 persons or more, please contact local provider to arrange
To find pictures of our experiences, search us on Instagram as @graylinetoursgt
Meeting point
Please be ready 15 minutes prior to your pick up time
Important notes
Please, email us at reserve@graylineguatemala.com or call (502) 5458 6888 at least 48 hours prior to the departure date of the tour to reconfirm date of travel, hotel, pickup time, and location for your tour. On the day of your tour, please present your printed voucher to the driver/guide upon pick up.
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.
Festivals
Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary each year)
Feria de la Asunción • August 15
Fiestas Patrias • September 15-16
Pro tips
- Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Visit the local markets for authentic souvenirs and a glimpse into daily life
- Try local coffee and chocolate, which are some of the best in the world
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and charming street scenes
- Be prepared for altitude sickness, as Antigua is located at a high elevation
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
