Ajijic and the Lake Chapala area are incredibly popular places for retirees right now, as thousands are flocking to this quaint, peaceful mountain town overlooking the picturesque Lake Chapala. Below, we have outlined where to stay, what to do, and of course a few of our favorite places to eat in Ajijic!
What to Do
♦ Walk along the Malecón in BOTH Chapala and Ajijic-- Both Ajijic and Chapala have a great, smaller boardwalk to wander along that lines the quite, tranquil lake. In Chapala, there are tianguis (outside flea markets) selling all sorts of souvenirs and food. There are also restaurants and bars lining the walk to plenty of places to stop for a break when needed!
♦ Hike to the Tepalo waterfall in Ajijic-- This is an absolutely beautiful hike up in the mountains to a gorgeous waterfall. The fall didn't have too much water when we visited, but this was still an incredible hike with great views of the lake along the way! Note: this is an intermediate level hike.
♦ Horseback Riding-- This is more of a casual suggestion in that you may find horses available, but you may not....Unfortunately the horses were apparently taking th day off when we visited, but we heard that they are usually in the heart of Ajijic.
Where to Stay
During our time in Ajijic, we stayed at the beautiful Villa del Angel Hotel. This boutique hotel is situated several blocks from the main plaza in Ajijic, which means the view of the city, as well as the lake are absolutely breathtaking. This is a luxury-style hotel, with charming rooms that are super well kept, and a beautiful pool area too. Also, we really liked all of the live plants and flowers all over the property--they made it really feel like a jungle! We would highly recommend this place for your time in Ajijic! Bonus: a delicious, made to order breakfast is included with each stay! You can book the Villa del Angel Hotel by clicking here.
Where to Eat
♦ The Peacock Garden-- This place says it all in the name! The Peacock Garden is a super neat restaurant right in the heart of Ajijic and it feels like you're steeping out of the city and into a vibrant peacock wonderland! Yes-there are peacocks wandering all over the lush gardens and some even came right up to our table as we were eating! I chose pasta, which was great but not out-of-this-world....you should go for the peacocks :) Address: Colón 8, Ajijic
♦ Purple Garlic Pizza Brothers-- Okay, the truth is that we initially loved this place because they have a ping pong table where we played until our pizza was ready. But then the most delectable pizza and garlic knots came out and a new love formed. This place is absolutely delicious and if you're looking for a great pizza, look no further! Address: Parroquia 12A, Ajijic
♦ Donas Donuts-- Wow..just wow. This donut place was recommended to us by some friends that live in Ajijic and our first thought was..."How good could these donuts really be?! We have had so many delicious sweet breads all across Mexico!" WOW these things were absolutely delicious and righteous and right up there with the best we've ever had. They are enormous and heavy and delicious. Address: J. Encarnación Rosas 52, Ajijic
♦ Gossip's Kitchen-- This place has delicious, memorable food! The downside--it's right along the main highway in and out of town so the ambience is...not so ambient. But the food is delicious and if you're craving a good burger or a fancier meal--this is your place! Address: Carr Jocotepec-chapala 36, Centro, Ajijic
We really enjoyed our time in the small mountain town of Ajijic! The weather is nice, and the mountains and lake views are even better! As always, feel free to email us at kinetickennons@gmail.com with any other questions you have about Ajijic or Lake Chapala.
Until next time, Have Less. Do More. Be More.
