natural wonder
Lake Atitlan
A breathtaking volcanic lake surrounded by three towering volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages, often called the most beautiful lake in the world.
23 km · about 25 min drive
North AmericaGuatemalaQuiché
Chichicastenango
Quiché, Guatemala · North America
About Chichicastenango
Chichicastenango is worth a stop: 15 minutes from Chiché, 23km from Lake Atitlan.
Chichicastenango is a city located in Quiché, Guatemala. With a population of 141,567, it is an important destination in North America.
On a road trip, Chichicastenango sits in Guatemala. It's in the America/Guatemala time zone. Below you'll find where to stay, things to do nearby, and everything you need to add Chichicastenango to your route.
About Chichicastenango
Chichicastenango, also known as Santo Tomás Chichicastenango, is a town, with a population of 71,394 (2018 census), and the municipal seat for the surrounding municipality of the same name in the El Quiché department of Guatemala.
Situated on a high-altitude plateau of the Guatemalan Highlands at an elevation ofRead more
1,965 metres (6,447 ft). above sea level, the town historically served as a vital K'iche' Maya ceremonial and regional center. It is notably recognized as the historic location where the original manuscript of the Popol Vuh, the sacred narrative of the K'iche' people, was preserved and transcribed in the early 18th century. The Spanish conquistadors named the town Tzitzicaztenanco (meaning "place of nettles") using the Nahuatl language of their Tlaxcalan allies, replacing its original K'iche' name, Chaviar.
Chichicastenango is a K'iche' Maya cultural centre. According to the 2012 census, 98.5% of the municipality's population is indigenous Mayan K'iche. Of the population, 21% speak only K'iche, 71% speak both K'iche and Spanish, and the remaining 8% speak only Spanish.
Where to Stay in Chichicastenango
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Chichicastenango?
Chichicastenango offers many attractions including tourist sites, museums, parks, and local restaurants. Explore famous landmarks, scenic roads, and natural wonders on our interactive map and plan your visit.
How do I plan a road trip to Chichicastenango?
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Where is Chichicastenango located?
Chichicastenango is located in Quiché, Guatemala, North America. The coordinates are 14.9433 latitude, -91.1112 longitude.
What is the population of Chichicastenango?
Chichicastenango has a population of approximately 141,567 people, making it a city in Guatemala.
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Quick Information
- Population
- 141,567
- Continent
- North America
- Country
- Guatemala
- Region
- Quiché
- Timezone
- America/Guatemala
- Coordinates
- 14.9433, -91.1112
Tags
Worth the detour from Chichicastenango
4 notable places within an hour's drive.
landmark
San Pedro La Laguna
A backpacker and artist hub on Lake Atitlán's shores beneath San Pedro Volcano, known for Spanish schools and Tz'utujil Maya culture.
33 km · about 40 min drive
scenic viewpoint
Acatenango
A 3,976 m stratovolcano near Antigua climbed overnight so hikers can camp on the ridge and watch neighbouring Volcán de Fuego erupt through the night: one of the most reliable live-eruption views on earth.
55 km · about 65 min drive
landmark
Antigua Guatemala
A UNESCO colonial city framed by volcanoes, filled with cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and stunning ruined churches.
59 km · about 70 min drive
Driving roads near Chichicastenango
- 55 kmAcatenangoA 3,976 m stratovolcano near Antigua climbed overnight so hikers can camp on the ridge and watch neighbouring Volcán de Fuego erupt through the night: one of the most reliable live-eruption views on earth.
When to drive here
Year-round
Tropical latitude: plan around the wet season rather than temperature.
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