Chichicastenango is known for having the largest and most colourful market in Guatemala. That is true, but it is more than that, and on this walking tour you will live the full experience.

You will meet your tour guide at the petrol station corner at 10:30.

You will go to the Gucumatz Arch, an iconic arch that welcomes you to Chichicastenango and offers a view of all the mountains of northern Guatemala. Then you will be immersed in the most colourful market. On market days—Thursday and Sunday—the place is full of fresh vegetables and fruits, Mayan clothes, and more. It also has many murals with the history of Chichicastenango.

After that, you will be in the centre of the city, where there are two Catholic churches. Before the Spanish arrived, they were two Mayan temples. Here you will see religious syncretism, how two worlds mix: you will see how, in front of a Catholic church, there is a space to hold a Mayan ceremony. Both religions are very important for the people of the region.

You will continue walking along the streets of this magical place until you arrive at the cemetery, a must‑do when you visit Chichicastenango, because you can learn that even in death, colours are important. All the tombs are painted in bright colours to honour the people who are no longer with us.

On your way back, you will visit a “morería,” where masks, costumes, and elements for traditional dances are made. You will see the entire workshop process and the final result.

The tour finishes at the exact point where it started, at 12:30.

Visiting Chichicastenango on market days is impressive, but if you have the chance to visit one day before or after, it is great. You will see the difference between a market day and a non‑market day. Staying a night there is highly recommended.

This walking tour starts in Chichicastenango. The easiest and most common way to arrive here is by shuttles from Guatemala City, La Antigua, or Lake Atitlán; private transport is another option.