Ajijic is a vibrant and uniquely beautiful Pueblo Magico located 45 minutes south of Guadalajara, on the shores of Lake Chapala. The restorative energy of Ajijic, positioned directly between the mountains and the enormous lake, exudes a natural vibrancy, inviting us to connect with ourselves, each other, and life itself. The Lake Chapala region has welcomed an eclectic community of international visitors and residents since the early part of the 20th century, including Yogananda, who visited Chapala in the 1920s and is rumored to have proclaimed that 100 years in the future this region would magnetically attract people from all over the world seeking to raise the spiritual energy on the planet, and become a hub of conscious awareness.
Explore the cobbled streets and experience the unique Pueblo Magico charm of Ajijic with no need for a car. The hills above Lake Chapala are crisscrossed with hiking and horse trails, and several waterfalls flow during the summer rainy season. The Tuesday Organic Market and Wednesday Tianguis Market offer fresh produce, local food vendors, clothing and handicrafts, and are an enjoyable way to spend a morning. Visit Lake Chapala Society after coffee at the lively Ajijic plaza, home to the Centro Cultural Ajijic, pausing to admire the numerous murals by talented local artists along the way. Linger at the shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants along Colon St and the Carretera Oriente (including vegan and gluten-free options), all within easy walking distance of Casa Aurora. Yoga, crossfit, Zumba, Salsa, and other movement classes abound, as well as weekly Ecstatic Dance sessions. Tuesday Night Jam sessions at The Spot, jazz concerts at La Cochera, and weekly events with local bands and DJ’s are a great way to experience the local evening groove.
The malecons and town plazas of Ajijic and neighboring San Antonio and Chapala are perfect for strolling, enjoying sunrise and sunset, and soaking up the Lakeside vibe. The restaurants and handicraft stalls along the Mercado de Chapala Malecon are a great way to spend an afternoon, including options for boat trips to Scorpion Island. Neighboring San Juan Cosala is home to thermal springs, spas, and restaurants, all accessible by local bus, taxi, or bicycle.
Several other nearby towns and villages make for easy day trips from Ajijic, including the charming mountain town of Mazamitla, perhaps with a stop at the winery in Tuxcueca along the way. Tequila (birthplace of its namesake beverage), bustling Guadalajara, including Tlaquepaque and Tonala, and several others are all possible to visit via tours, or independently via bus, taxi, or rental car.
Some guests find they can fund visits by taking care of their medical and dental needs while here, at significant savings. Services are professional, attentive, affordable, and easy to access. Care options include dentistry, dermatology, medical scans, physical therapy, elder and memory care, holistic bodywork, mindfulness seminars, etc, most at a fraction of the prices you may be paying abroad. There are also many innovative alternative treatments available locally, such as Bowen, Biofield tuning, etc, as well as great spas and thermal springs nearby. We can share local referrals on request, and additional specialty care is available in nearby Guadalajara.
