Guatemala’s best shopping excursions center on this smart combination: a two-day trip linking Lake Atitlan with the famous Chichicastenango Market. Local guides make the experience hassle-free while you explore Central America’s most vibrant open-air marketplace. The crafts are authentic, the textiles colorful, and the produce wonderfully fresh.
I especially love this tour’s efficient timing – you’ll hit “Chichi Market” (as locals call it) during prime morning hours, then spend quality time at Lake Atitlan, where three volcanoes create a stunning backdrop for souvenir photos. The included visit to Santo Tomas Church adds cultural depth without overwhelming the shopping focus.
Transportation and lunch are covered, letting you focus on bargaining and browsing. Perfect for travelers who want more than just shopping – you get Guatemala’s top market plus its most beautiful lake in one well-organized package.
Let’s explore our favorite shopping tours in Antigua.
Key Points
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Chichicastenango Market tour offers an immersive experience to explore one of Central America’s largest open-air markets, featuring handicrafts, textiles, and local produce.
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The 2-day tour combines the Chichicastenango Market visit with a scenic boat trip on Lake Atitlan, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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The tour is limited to 10 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience to engage with local artisans and vendors.
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Included in the tour price are all fees, taxes, a hosted lunch, and convenient transportation from Antigua, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free cultural experience.
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The tour’s cultural significance is highlighted by the blending of Mayan and Catholic rituals at the Iglesia de Santo Tomas, providing a unique glimpse into the local traditions.
2-Day Tour of Lake Atitlan & Chichicastenango Market
For travelers seeking to enjoy the vibrant cultural heritage of Guatemala, the Day Tour of Lake Atitlan & Chichicastenango Market from Antigua is a must-do experience. Priced at $180 per person, this 2-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of two iconic Guatemalan destinations.
On the first day, guests will journey from Antigua to the bustling open-air market of Chichicastenango, renowned for its impressive array of handicrafts, textiles, and local produce. After exploring the market, they’ll visit the Church of Santo Tomas, a site that showcases the blending of Mayan and Catholic rituals.
The day concludes with a transfer to Panajachel for an overnight stay.
The second day begins with a scenic boat trip across the stunning Lake Atitlan, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes. Guests will then venture into two traditional Mayan villages, seeing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The tour culminates with a return to Antigua, providing travelers with a comprehensive introduction to the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Guatemala.
Read our full review: 2-Day Tour of Lake Atitlan & Chichicastenango Market Review
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Antigua: Chichicastenango Mayan Market Day Trip
Nestled in the verdant highlands of Guatemala, the vibrant Chichicastenango Mayan Market beckons travelers to enjoy the country’s rich cultural heritage. This eight-hour day trip from Antigua offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of Central America’s largest and most storied markets, with a price tag of $145 per person.
Visitors can expect to encounter a diverse array of goods, from fresh produce and handcrafted textiles to traditional Guatemalan cuisine. The market, which runs on Sundays and Thursdays, has been a hub of activity for over 4,000 years.
Along With shopping, the tour includes visits to the iconic Iglesia de Santo Tomas and the Chichicastenango Cemetery, where many honor their loved ones on market days.
The tour is limited to 10 participants and is offered in both Spanish and English. With all fees, taxes, bottled water, and a hosted lunch included, this Chichicastenango Mayan Market Day Trip provides a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the heart of Guatemalan culture.
Read our full review: Antigua: Chichicastenango Mayan Market Day Trip Review
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The Sum Up
Antigua Guatemala offers a variety of shopping tours that allow visitors to explore the vibrant local markets and enjoy the rich Mayan culture. Whether it’s the 2-day tour of Lake Atitlan and Chichicastenango or the day trip to the Chichicastenango Mayan Market, these tours provide an authentic experience and the opportunity to purchase unique handcrafted items. Travelers can expect to find a wide range of textiles, pottery, jewelry, and other traditional Guatemalan products during these excursions.