Visit Chichicastenango market
Hunt for souvenirs at a colourful Mayan market and visit the mystical church of Santo Tomás.
A visit to the market town of Chichicastenango gives a strong sense of Guatemala’s indigenous heritage and the age-old Mayan belief systems that have fused with the Catholicism imposed by colonial Spain. The result is a unique blend in which European religious traditions mingle with ancient mysticism and shamanism.
On Thursdays and Sundays, the streets come alive with commerce and colour as Chichicastenango plays host to Guatemala’s largest open-air market. Indigenous communities from across the area congregate in spectacular traditional dress to trade their produce and sell traditional handicrafts, masks, textiles and figurines. You can also mingle with the locals at the market’s comedores (basic food stalls) which offer some intriguing specialities.
Meanwhile vendors selling bundles of flowers spill across the picturesque steps of the church of Santo Tomás, a focal point for traditional rituals. On market days these steps – one for each of the 18 months of the Mayan calendar – are shrouded in a perpetual mist of incense.
Holidays Visit Chichicastenango market
From expertly designed Private Journeys to trail-blazing Group Tours, browse our range of carefully crafted holidays.
Private Journeys
Guatemala
Easter in Guatemala: Semana Santa
8 days from £2,150pp
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Group - Classic
Guatemala / Belize
Kinkajou: Best of Guatemala and Belize
12 days from £3,217pp
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Guatemala / Belize
Signature Guatemala and Belize: Culture and Caribbean
15 days from £3,830pp
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Guatemala
Signature Guatemala: Mountains, Markets and Mayan ruins
12 days from £3,200pp
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Group - Classic
Nicaragua / El Salvador / Guatemala / Belize
Tropicbird: Highlights of Central America
19 days from £4,804pp
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Papagaio
Your edit for Latin American inspiration
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
View Extraordinary Inspiration
