
Ajijic Mexico
A charming lakeside town in Jalisco, Mexico, known for its perfect climate, vibrant art scene, and large expat community where English is widely spoke...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds

Ajijic Mexico
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming lakeside town in Jalisco, Mexico, known for its perfect climate, vibrant art scene, and large expat community where English is widely spoken.
"The best weathered place on the planet, Ajijic offers a unique blend of Mexican charm and international comfort."

🚶♀️ Walkable Charm
Ajijic is best explored on foot. Wander through its charming streets and discover hidden gems.
🚗 Uber for Nearby Trips
Use Uber to easily travel between Ajijic and Chapala.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ajijic Plaza
Centro
The heart of Ajijic, perfect for people-watching, enjoying local art, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Lake Chapala Boardwalk (Malecón)
Lake Chapala shoreline
Stroll along the lake, enjoy stunning views, and experience the lively weekend scene with families and vendors.

Art Galleries and Murals
Throughout the town
Discover Ajijic's thriving art scene, from colorful murals to numerous galleries showcasing local talent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Expats & English
Getting Around Without a Car
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable Charm
Ajijic is best explored on foot. Wander through its charming streets and discover hidden gems.
🚗 Uber for Nearby Trips
Use Uber to easily travel between Ajijic and Chapala.
🎨 Art Lover's Paradise
Don't miss the vibrant murals and numerous art galleries scattered throughout town.
☀️ Perfect Weather Year-Round
Enjoy Ajijic's famously pleasant climate, often called 'the best weather on the planet'.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable Charm
Ajijic is best explored on foot. Wander through its charming streets and discover hidden gems.
🚗 Uber for Nearby Trips
Use Uber to easily travel between Ajijic and Chapala.
🎨 Art Lover's Paradise
Don't miss the vibrant murals and numerous art galleries scattered throughout town.
☀️ Perfect Weather Year-Round
Enjoy Ajijic's famously pleasant climate, often called 'the best weather on the planet'.
☕ Coffee & Bites
Discover charming cafes like La Vita Bella for a relaxing break.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ajijic is widely praised for its beautiful scenery, particularly Lake Chapala, and its consistently pleasant climate. Visitors love the relaxed atmosphere, vibrant art scene, and the convenience of English being widely spoken, making it accessible for international travelers. Some find the strong expat presence diminishes the 'authentic' Mexican feel, and occasional issues with water pressure or internet can arise.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Ajijic from Guadalajara is by car or Uber, taking approximately 45-60 minutes. Buses are also an option, though less direct.
Yes, Ajijic is very walkable. For trips to nearby towns like Chapala, Ubers are readily available and recommended.
Ajijic does not have its own airport. The nearest major airport is Guadalajara International Airport (GDL), from which you can take an Uber or taxi to Ajijic.
Uber is the most convenient option for traveling between Ajijic and Chapala, offering a direct and comfortable ride.
While Ajijic is compact and walkable, local taxis are available for shorter distances if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ajijic is a town, not a ticketed attraction. Entry is free, though individual businesses, tours, or specific events may have associated costs.
Most shops and restaurants in Ajijic open around 9-10 AM and close between 6-9 PM. Some may have siesta hours in the afternoon. Weekends can be busier.
The main attractions like the Plaza and the Malecón are free to access. Art galleries and some cultural centers might have admission fees or suggest donations.
While not always necessary, booking tours in advance, especially for specific experiences or during peak season, is recommended for popular options.
Cash (Mexican Pesos) is widely accepted, especially at smaller shops and markets. Credit cards are accepted at many restaurants and larger establishments, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ajijic offers diverse culinary options. Highly recommended spots include Johanna's for German food, Tomahawk for steaks, and Pasta Trenta for Italian. La Vita Bella is great for coffee.
While Ajijic has many meat-centric restaurants, you can often find vegetarian options. Exploring local markets or asking for recommendations at restaurants can yield good results.
Ajijic's food scene is international, with a strong presence of American and European expats influencing the cuisine. You'll find Italian, German, and Thai alongside traditional Mexican dishes.
La Vita Bella is a popular spot mentioned for its coffee and ambiance. Many cafes and restaurants offer coffee throughout the town.
While specific food tours might not be widely advertised, exploring the town and trying different eateries is a culinary adventure in itself. Ask locals for their favorite spots!
📸 📸 Photography
The Ajijic Plaza, the colorful murals, the boardwalk along Lake Chapala, and the charming cobblestone streets offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the town's serene beauty. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides stunning light.
Look for the vibrant murals that adorn many buildings, the iconic 'door to heaven' at Tomahawk restaurant, and the picturesque views of Lake Chapala.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and be respectful of private property and residents before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for street photography and landscapes. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive lake views and architectural details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Expats of Ajijic
The expat presence also means a variety of services catering to international residents, from specialized shops to social clubs and events. While this creates a comfortable environment for foreigners, it's also worth noting that some visitors seek a more traditional, less expat-dominated Mexican experience.
Exploring Lake Chapala and its Surroundings
Beyond Ajijic, the nearby town of Chapala is also worth exploring. It offers a different, perhaps more traditional, Mexican atmosphere. Traveling between Ajijic and Chapala is best done via Uber or taxi, as they are distinct destinations. The region around Lake Chapala is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, including hiking trails like Chupinaya, offering a chance to connect with nature just a short distance from town.
Ajijic's Culinary Scene
Beyond these specific recommendations, the town is dotted with charming cafes like La Vita Bella, perfect for a morning coffee or a light snack. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy the pleasant weather while they eat. While the expat influence is strong, you can still find local Mexican flavors, and it's always worth asking locals for their favorite hidden gems.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit