Lake Chapala Tour: Mezcala Island & Ajijic with a Local Expert

Guadalajara , Mexico

Lake Chapala Tour: Mezcala Island & Ajijic with a Local Expert

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(23 reviews)

8h - 10h

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Travel from Guadalajara to the Chapala Lake area and tour the magical towns of Mezcala, Chapala, and Ajijic hosted by a local expert.

Enjoy a boat ride (included) on the lake on the way to Mezcala Island. The Island was an indigenous ceremonial center in pre-Hispanic times and became a fortress and prison during the War of Independence from 1812 to 1816.

Tour Lake Chapala's main attractions, historical sites, colonial buildings, markets, temples, and boardwalks with beautiful lake views.

Enjoy lunch facing the lake in the gastronomic area. Try the delicious local cuisine, famous for its seafood, micheladas, tequila cocktails, and steaks.

This Private Chapala Lake Tour is dedicated to nature and cultural heritage lovers, those looking for an authentic, personalized, immersive experience.

Benefits:
• Expert local guide
• Boat ride included at Lake Chapala
• Private tour for you and your companions
• Historical tour of Mezcala Island
• Private round-trip transport

Available options

Lake Chapala Tour: Mezcala Island & Ajijic with a Local Expert

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Purified water

Historical tour of Mezcala Island

Soda or mineral water

Boat Ride on Lake Chapala

Knowledgeable Local Guide

Hotel Pickup and Dropoff

Detailed itinerary

You will tour and appreciate one day the 3 main magic towns on the shore of Chapala Lake (Mezcala, Chapala & Ajijic). Indigenous origin villages with lots of history, tradition, and gastronomy. It may take several hours depending on the wishes of the traveler

Enjoy a boat ride (included) to Mezcala Island in the company of a local expert where you will learn all about the ruins and vestiges of one of the most important military forts during the War of Independence. Formerly it was also a ceremonial center of the Coca indigenous community.

Visit the old Chapala Railway station that formerly communicated the region with the city of Mexico and Guadalajara around the 1920s. Today it is a museum dedicated to sharing the history of the region.

*The museum is subject to the availability of local authorities*

Stroll and appreciate the beautiful Chapala boardwalk as well as its historic center.

Right next to the Chapala boardwalk you can find the handicraft market where you will find pre-Hispanic crafts, jewelry, souvenirs as well as drinks and snacks typical of the region.

Visit the parish of Chapala and appreciate its neocolonial architecture.

Stroll the historic center of Ajijic, a magical town on the shore of Lake Chapala.

In this cultural center of Ajijic you can appreciate murals related to the history of the region as well as art and photography exhibitions, folkloric ballet presentations and theater plays.

*The place is subject to the availability of local authorities*

Visit the Ajijic parish and appreciate its neocolonial architecture.

Discover another of the magical towns in the Ribera de Chapala route. Appreciate its beautiful boardwalk and historic center. You will find also great coffee shops, regional crafts, and a craft beer brewery.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Guadalajara

Guadalajara, the vibrant capital of Jalisco, is a city rich in history, culture, and traditions. Known as the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, it offers a blend of colonial architecture, modern attractions, and a lively arts scene. The city's warm hospitality and diverse culinary offerings make it a must-visit destination in Mexico.

Top Attractions

Hospicio Cabañas

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 18th-century complex houses a museum and stunning frescoes by José Clemente Orozco.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Guadalajara Cathedral

This iconic cathedral is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Instituto Cultural Cabañas

This cultural center hosts various exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Birria

A spicy stew made with goat or beef, traditionally served with tortillas and consommé.

Main Course Contains meat

Tortas Ahogadas

A sandwich drowned in a spicy tomato sauce, typically made with pork.

Main Course Contains meat

Tejuino

A fermented corn drink, often served with lime and chili powder.

Drink Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Zip-lining Spa treatments Boating Museum visits Art galleries Fishing Skiing (in nearby areas)

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the best time to visit Guadalajara, with pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

CST (UTC -6)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with exercise caution

Guadalajara is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or app-based services
• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas

Getting there

By air

Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport • 16 km (10 miles) from city center

By bus

Central de Autobuses de Guadalajara (CAEG)

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the most extensive public transport option in Guadalajara, with routes covering the entire city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Histórico Zapopan Chapalita

Day trips

Tlaquepaque

10 km (6 miles) • Half day

A charming town known for its artisan shops, galleries, and traditional restaurants.

Tequila

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

The birthplace of tequila, offering distillery tours, agave fields, and historic sites.

Lake Chapala

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Mexico's largest freshwater lake, offering boating, fishing, and scenic views.

Festivals

Feria Internacional del Libro (FIL) • November Festival de Maríachi y Charro • September Día de los Muertos • November 1-2

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Visit local markets for authentic souvenirs and culinary experiences.
Explore the city's neighborhoods to discover hidden gems and local culture.
Try traditional Jalisco dishes like birria and tortas ahogadas.
Attend a mariachi performance for an authentic cultural experience.