Things To Do
in Sololá
Sololá is a highland town on the southern shore of Lake Atitlán, perched at about 2,000 meters. It blends indigenous traditions with a lively market scene and easy access to nearby villages. The scenery is framed by volcanic peaks and a sweeping lake view at sunset.
Visitors can sample traditional foods, shop textiles, and use Sololá as a base to explore the lake region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the vibrant Sololá market, which is renowned for its colorful textiles and local produce. As the sun rises, the market buzzes with activity, allowing you to interact with friendly vendors while tasting local delicacies. Don't forget to capture the lively atmosphere with your camera as the locals gather to shop and socialize.
After exploring the market, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets, absorbing the rich cultural vibes of Sololá. You can visit local artisan shops and admire handwoven textiles, pottery, and other crafts unique to the region. Make sure to stop for lunch at a quaint café to savor authentic Guatemalan dishes like pepian or kak'ik.
As evening falls, head to a local viewpoint to witness a breathtaking sunset over Lake Atitlán. The sky transforms into a palette of warm colors, providing the perfect backdrop for reflection. Wind down your day with a traditional dinner at a family-run restaurant, where you can enjoy more of Guatemala's delicious cuisine.
Embark on a journey to the nearby indigenous villages surrounding Lake Atitlán, where you can learn about the rich Mayan culture. Participate in a traditional weaving workshop, guided by local artisans who will share their techniques and stories. This hands-on experience provides a deeper understanding of the community's heritage and the importance of their crafts.
After the workshop, take some time to explore the village, visiting local schools and markets, and engaging with the residents. You might find children playing traditional games or women preparing local dishes, giving you a glimpse into daily life. Enjoy a homemade lunch in one of the village homes, allowing you to taste authentic flavors and hear stories from the locals.
Return to Sololá and relax at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's experiences. As night falls, enjoy a quiet dinner in town, perhaps trying a new dish you've never tasted before. End your evening by chatting with local friends or fellow travelers, sharing stories and insights gained from the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-4 |
| 🚌Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🧶Local craft souvenir | $3-25 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful lake scenery and volcanic backdrops
- Rich Indigenous culture and markets
- Friendly locals and accessible day trips
- Good value for money
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Roads can be bumpy during the rainy season
- Smaller medical facilities; may need to travel to Xela or Guatemala City for major care
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Sololá
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, textiles, and daily life provide abundant photo opportunities.
Scenic vantage points along the southern shore with striking volcano silhouettes.
Photogenic architecture and traditional street scenes.
Food in Sololá
Sololá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, roasted-pepper and spice sauce served with meat over rice or tortillas.
Must-Try!
Green chicken with cilantro, tomatillo sauce, and corn.
Spicy turkey soup flavored with achiote and peppers, a regional favorite.
Steamed corn dough wrapped and filled with meat, chiles, or vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market spaces offering fresh produce, tamales, roasted corn, textiles, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite hola and a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek in familiar settings; ask before photographing people.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites; remove hats indoors in many venues; accepting hospitality graciously is valued.
Safety
Tipping in Sololá
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10% tip at restaurants is customary if service is not included; small tips to guides and drivers are appreciated.
Cash in GTQ is common; many shops and markets prefer cash, while some tourist areas accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November to April features clear skies, plenty of sunshine, and ideal conditions for hiking and lake activities.
May to October brings regular afternoon showers, lush greenery, and cooler mornings—bring a light rain layer.
Sololá at Night
Hiking in Sololá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular, moderate hike with crater and lake views; commonly accessed from San Pedro La Laguna.
Forest trails with overlooks and water features near the lake's eastern shore.
Gentle island trails and lake viewpoints accessible by ferry; suitable for an easy day hike.
Airports
How to reach Sololá by plane.
Guatemala City’s main international airport; typically 2-3 hours by road from Sololá depending on traffic.
Nearby regional airport serving domestic flights and connections to major cities; about 1.5-2.5 hours by road from Sololá.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Kaqchikel-speaking communities with rich textile and farming traditions.
Residents of mixed heritage who often live in urban centers and work in commerce or services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common in towns and villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sololá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most markets and restaurants; ask for opciones sin carne or solo vegetales, and opt for legumes, corn, and vegetables.