Ajijic Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ajijic, Mexico with our comprehensive travel guide featuring cultural, natural and food attractions, accommodations, safety and health tips, and more.


Introduction to Ajijic

Nestled along the banks of Lake Chapala in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, Ajijic is a charming expat town, popular for its mild climate, vibrant art scene, and stunning natural beauty. The picturesque cobblestone streets, colorful architecture, and inviting local culture make it a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxed getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Ajijic

If you’re planning a trip to Ajijic, you’ll want to experience all the fantastic opportunities that this stunning town has to offer. Here are the top attractions you should consider adding to your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Located in the heart of Ajijic, the Museo de Ajijic offers an excellent opportunity to explore the town’s history, art, and culture. The museum features a diverse collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, religious art, and photographs that date back to the early 19th century.

Another must-visit attraction in Ajijic is San Andrés Catholic Church, which boasts a stunning neo-gothic architecture and artistic stained-glass windows. It is the perfect place to witness the local religious gatherings that take place every Sunday and major religious holiday.

Natural Attractions of Ajijic: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural beauty of Ajijic is unparalleled, and there is no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Head to Lake Chapala for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing or enjoy a leisurely bike ride down the Malecon, where you can enjoy stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the spectacular botanical gardens of Raquet Club, which feature beautiful landscaping and exotic plant displays.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ajijic

With miles of hiking and biking trails winding through the Sierra Madre Mountains, Ajijic is a nature lover’s paradise. The La Chuparosa Trail is a popular option, where you’ll witness panoramic views of the valley and the lake while enjoying a peaceful hike.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, head to El Tepalo, which provides stunning vistas of the whole region. Mountain biking tours through the rugged terrain of Ajijic allow more adrenaline-pumping fun through the steep hills and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Ajijic: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for more structured activities, Ajijic has plenty to offer. You can go on cultural tours, cooking classes, or even ride horses through the surrounding hills and valleys. There are also exciting nighttime activities such as live music, comedy shows, and art exhibitions.

Don’t forget to indulge in the local food scene, which is a charming fusion of traditional Mexican and international cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ajijic

Here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of your week in Ajijic:

Day Activity
1 Relax at your resort, dine at a local restaurant
2 Explore the Museo de Ajijic and the nearby cultural sites
3 Take a scenic biking tour, enjoy water sports on Lake Chapala
4 Visit the botanical gardens of Raquet Club
5 Hike El Tepalo, go horseback riding
6 Join a cooking class, attend a live music show
7 Experience local markets, buy souvenirs to bring home

Food and Drink Scene of Ajijic

No visit to Ajijic is complete without sampling its delicious food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages that you won’t want to miss.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tacos de Pescado (Fish Tacos)
  • Chiles Rellenos (Stuffed Peppers)
  • Pozole (Traditional Mexican Stew)
  • Carnitas (Crispy Fried Pork)

Local Beverages

  • Tequila
  • Mezcal
  • Michelada (Beer cocktail with lime juice and spices)

Where to Stay in Ajijic: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ajijic is a popular tourist destination, and there’s no shortage of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From cozy guesthouses and hostels to luxury resorts, you’ll find the perfect place to stay.

Some popular options include Las Palmas Ajijic, which is a charming boutique hotel, and Casa Tres Leones, which offers stunning views of Lake Chapala and a relaxing pool area.

What to Buy in Ajijic: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ajijic is famous for its local products, which include handcrafted pottery, jewelry, and textiles. The local markets are a great place to find unique souvenirs to take back home with you. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the locally made organic honey and buy some for bringing home.

Local Culture and Customs of Ajijic

Ajijic has a rich history and a unique culture that is heavily influenced by its expatriate community. The local culture is centered around family, faith, and community, and visitors are often welcomed with open arms.

One of the essential customs to keep in mind is being respectful of the local religious traditions and customs. Modest dress is desirable when visiting public places such as religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Ajijic

The best time to visit Ajijic is from November to April. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with little to no rainfall. The summers can be hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ajijic

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Ajijic:

Do:

  • Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases and customs.
  • Enjoy the natural surroundings.

Don’t:

  • Engage in illegal activities.
  • Remove anything or cause harm to natural attractions and cultural sites.
  • Disrespect the local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Ajijic is a safe destination to visit, but like any other place, it’s crucial to take some precautions. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind.

Safety in Ajijic

  • Take care of your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
  • Stick to well-lit streets at night.
  • Avoid exploring isolated areas alone, especially at night.
  • Be aware of the possible drug-related crimes and stay away from them.

Health in Ajijic

  • Drink bottled water, avoid tap water.
  • Apply sunscreen and wear a hat when spending time outdoors.
  • Be aware of the altitude changes when hiking and take plenty of water breaks.
  • Check with your doctor to ensure you have all the mandatory vaccinations before traveling to Mexico.

Getting to Ajijic: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the transportation options to get to Ajijic:

Airports Near Ajijic

The Guadalajara International Airport is the closest airport to Ajijic, located 65 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a private bus to get to Ajijic.

Bus Stations Near Ajijic

Another option is to take a bus from Guadalajara or another nearby town to Ajijic. Some of the popular bus companies include ETN, ADO, and Primera Plus.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or hire a private driver to get to Ajijic. This is an excellent option to have some flexibility and independence in exploring Ajijic and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Ajijic

Getting around Ajijic is easy. The town is small enough to explore on foot, but you can also rent a bike or take a bus, taxi or Uber to get around.

Where to Go Next from Ajijic: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ajijic is an excellent place to use as a base to explore the area, with plenty of nearby destinations and excursions. Some popular options include:

  • The town of Chapala
  • Parque Natural Sierra de San Juan Cosalá
  • Guadalajara city, which offers exquisite food and architecture with traditional Mexican culture.

Conclusion

Ajijic offers boundless opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in its natural, cultural, and culinary attractions. With its vibrant art scene, stunning natural surroundings, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s not hard to see why it’s a dream destination for both Mexican and international tourists. Plan your trip now and experience all that Ajijic has to offer!

The cobblestone streets are an enduring cultural tradition that adds charm to the already artistic and ornate town. The cobblestone streets are an enduring cultural tradition that adds charm to the already artistic and ornate town. Aerial view of Ajijic's Plaza and kiosk, looking south towards Lake Chapala and Mt Garcia Aerial view of Ajijic's Plaza and kiosk, looking south towards Lake Chapala and Mt Garcia