Bus2Train

Jalapa to Lake Atitlán

Updated: March 15, 2024 02:15 AM
Lake Atitlán

Jalapa to Lake Atitlan - Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQ

Language

The official language of Guatemala is Spanish. However, there are 22 other Mayan languages spoken in the country, as well as several other indigenous languages. English is not widely spoken in Guatemala, but it is understood in some tourist areas.

Currency

The official currency of Guatemala is the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ). US dollars are also widely accepted in Guatemala, but it is best to exchange your money into quetzals before you arrive.

Distance

The distance from Jalapa to Lake Atitlan is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles). The drive takes about 3 hours.

How to Reach

There are several ways to get from Jalapa to Lake Atitlan.

  • By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Jalapa and Lake Atitlan. The journey takes about 3 hours and costs around $5-$10.
  • By shuttle: There are also several shuttle companies that operate between Jalapa and Lake Atitlan. The journey takes about 2 hours and costs around $15-$20.
  • By car: If you are renting a car, you can drive from Jalapa to Lake Atitlan in about 3 hours. The drive is relatively easy and the roads are in good condition.

Expenses

The cost of your trip from Jalapa to Lake Atitlan will vary depending on how you choose to travel and what activities you participate in. However, here are some general estimates:

  • Transportation:$5-$20
  • Accommodation:$10-$50 per night
  • Food: $5-$15 per day
  • Activities:$10-$50 per day

Best time to go

The best time to visit Lake Atitlan is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is less rain. However, the lake is also popular during the rainy season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is cooler and there is more rain, but the lake is still beautiful and there are fewer tourists.

What to Eat

There are many delicious foods to eat in Lake Atitlan. Some of the most popular dishes include:

  • Pepian: A thick stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices.
  • Chuchitos: Corn tortillas filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables.
  • Tamales: Corn dough filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and wrapped in a corn husk.
  • Atole: A thick drink made from cornmeal and water.

Where to Go

There are many things to see and do in Lake Atitlan. Some of the most popular attractions include:

  • Santiago Atitlan: A traditional Mayan village located on the shores of the lake.
  • San Pedro La Laguna: A laid-back town with a vibrant nightlife.
  • Panajachel: The main tourist town on the lake, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels.
  • Santa Catarina Palopo: A small village known for its beautiful textiles.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling from Jalapa to Lake Atitlan:

  • Is it safe to travel from Jalapa to Lake Atitlan?
  • Yes, it is generally safe to travel from Jalapa to Lake Atitlan. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against theft and other crimes.

  • Do I need a visa to enter Guatemala?
  • No, citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Guatemala for stays of up to 90 days.

  • What is the weather like in Lake Atitlan?
  • The weather in Lake Atitlan is warm and sunny year-round. However, the rainy season runs from May to October, during which time there is more rain and the weather is cooler.

  • What is the best way to get around Lake Atitlan?
  • The best way to get around Lake Atitlan is by boat. There are regular boat services between the different towns and villages on the lake.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

Trips from Jalapa


  • Puerto Escondido
    Jalapa to Puerto Escondido

    Here is a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip from Jalapa to Puerto Escondido, including information on language, currency, distance, how to rea..

  • Unión Hidalgo
    Jalapa to Unión Hidalgo

    The official language of Mexico is Spanish. However, many people in Jalapa and Unión Hidalgo also speak Zapotec, an indigenous language of the region. The..

  • Asunción Ixtaltepec
    Jalapa to Asunción Ixtaltepec

    The official language of both Jalapa and Asunción Ixtaltepec is Spanish. The currency of both Jalapa and Asunción Ixtaltepec is the Mexican peso (MXN). T..

  • Quetzaltenango
    Jalapa to Quetzaltenango

    Spanish is the official language of both Jalapa and Quetzaltenango. The currency used in both Jalapa and Quetzaltenango is the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ). Th..

  • Cárdenas
    Jalapa to Cárdenas

    This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip from Jalapa to Cárdenas. The official language of both Jalapa and Cárdena..

  • Catemaco
    Jalapa to Catemaco

    Jalapa is a small town in the Mexican state of Veracruz. Catemaco is a town in the Mexican state of Veracruz. The official language of both Jalapa and Cate..

  • Chiapa de Corzo
    Jalapa to Chiapa de Corzo

    The official language of Mexico is Spanish. However, English is also widely spoken in tourist areas. The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso (M..

  • Chontalpa
    Jalapa to Chontalpa

    The official language of Mexico is Spanish. However, many other languages are spoken in the country, including Nahuatl, Maya, and Zapotec. In Jalapa and Ch..

  • Huimanguillo
    Jalapa to Huimanguillo

    The official language of both Jalapa and Huimanguillo is Spanish. The official currency of both Jalapa and Huimanguillo is the Mexican peso (MXN). The dist..

Trips to Lake Atitlán