Chichicastenango Patron’s Day

On the drive from Antigua to Chichicastenango, we will take a 15-minute stop to stretch, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán, one of Guatemala’s most sacred and storied lakes, surrounded by majestic volcanoes. This short break is a perfect moment to pause, breathe, and connect with the natural and spiritual beauty of the highlands.

Upon arrival, walk about 6 blocks toward the Church of Santo Tomás built on top of a pre-Columbian temple as you admire the faith expressed in praising the saints and the joy of the 14 cofradías (religious brotherhoods). The purpose to be early inside is to witness the expressions of faith and devotion before it becomes crowded and inaccessible. With more than seven Mayan altars, each believer offers prayers and lights candles as a sign that their words transcend to the Creator with their messages. Each brotherhood presents a altar that later will become in the procession, this is actually an unusual float size as they needed to addapt the amount of groups, leaving us with a tremendeous sincretism version of colorfully decorated altars with saints images.

Enjoy breakfast at Hotel Santo Tomás, the most beautiful hotel in Chichicastenango. À la carte options available.

Experience the Tzijolaj, a dance representing Santiago Apóstol (Saint James) on a white horse. The ritual is performed with fireworks and concludes with the Tzijolaj being tied to a rope from the bell tower to the "palo volador" (flying pole).
After the Tzijolaj, the cofradías march out, accompanied by "Baile de los Mexicanos", dancers who perform adaptation of an old Maya fertility ritual and traditional music, creating a high-spirited, colorful procession that fills the streets.

Visit the local cemetery, where families get together to honor their ancestors with heartfelt offerings of flowers, incense, and prayings, a deeply rooted expression of our reverence for the spirit world.

Come around and discover the sacred Oxlajuj B'aktún plaza, the 13 Bak'tun ceremonial site, where traditional Mayan rituals are performed, connecting past and present in a powerful celebration of ancestral wisdom and cosmic cycles.

After the cemetery visit, enjoy the festivities in the central plaza and visit the Church of El Calvario. This stunning church offers a unique insight into the vibrant spiritual life of the local community that blends indigenous Mayan traditions with Catholic doctrines. Get captivated by the serene atmosphere.

We will return to Antigua Guatemala. On the way, we suggest making a stop in Tecpán for lunch.