Guadalajara ATTRACTIONS See all
Lake Chapala Tours
Located roughly 50 km south of Guadalajara, Chapala is Mexico’s largest lake: 35 km wide and 120 km long. Chapala is not a swimmer’s paradise: water levels have sunk steadily over the years and the lake is murky and choked with pretty but invasive water hyacinth. Most visitors prefer to explore the lake by boats, which can be chartered at the pier in the town of Chapala. The ruined fortress of Mezcala Island, also known as Presidio, is a must-see.
The three main lake towns, Chapala, Ajijic, and Jocotepec, are all worth a visit. Chapala is a famous writers’ retreat; celebrated visitors include Tennessee Williams and D.H. Lawrence, who immortalized Chapala’s Church of San Francisco in the final pages of his novel, The Plumed Serpent. Ajijic is a haven for retirees and artists; the stone streets are lined with galleries and cafes, and it’s an easy place to get by if your Spanish is limited. Jocotepec is the least touristy of the three towns and features a pretty waterfront park and an old-fashioned plaza, where visitors can dine on authentic regional specialties such as birria, spicy goat or beef stew.
Practical Info
Tours & Tickets
Lake Chapala and Ajijic Half-Day Tour from Guadalajara
Visit the charming villages of Chapala and Ajijic, which border Mexico's largest natural lake. This half-day tour from Guadalajara takes you by minivan to Lake ... Read more
Location: Guadalajara, Mexico
Duration: 5 hours (approx.)
Full-Day Lake Chapala Tour from Guadalajara
See and get to know about the largest lake in Mexico, enjoy their landscapes, gastronomy and its quietness and friendly atmosphere. Your tour includes ... Read more
Location: Guadalajara, Mexico
Duration: 6 hours (approx.)