How to get from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala

aLocated in the picturesque Mexican state of Jalisco, Lake Chapala beckons visitors for its vibrant culture and serene beauty. If you are planning your next trip to Lake Chapala, planning a trip from Guadalajara is your best bet.

The getaway experience is pretty one-of-a-kind, providing you with a getaway to the enchanting world that’s filled with scenic coasts, quaint villages, and thermal springs. And, most of all, you can’t forget the delectable Mexican cuisine.

This article will walk you through the best ways to get from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala which will expose you to the beautiful scenic routes and eclectic spots that the place has to offer.

3 Ways to Get from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala

The charm of the countryside that you get to witness as you inch closer to Lake Chapala is an experience like no other. The delightful journey meandering through picturesque landscapes and vibrant towns is an experience like no other.

Following are some of the best transportation routes to opt for:

Private Transfer from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala

Not everyone wants to indulge in a limiting travel experience. If that’s the case with you, opting for a private transfer is your best option. Besides the flexibility and convenience, the highway journey also offers stunning views of Mexico along the way. You will have a reliable service with air conditioner, private driver, short and you can schedule the trip at the time you want, also if you are traveling in group, this maybe the best option because the price can be split between travelers.

Given that the distance between Guadalajara to Lake Chapala is around 57 km, the whole journey takes around an hour, provided that you aren’t indulging in too many pit stops.

The journey from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala takes approximately 1 hour, covering a distance of approximately 57 kilometers and prices are around $84-$464, depending on the type of car you choose.

Check out the schedule and book your tickets from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala here!

Coach bus from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala

The next mode of transportation that’s worth exploring is the Coach bus. Not only are these comfortable, but they also offer a cost-effective option for your next trip between Guadalajara and Lake Chapala.

What’s great about Coach buses is the fact that they operate throughout the day, within a frequency of around 90 minutes, which is a bonus.

The journey takes about 4 hours and prices are around $10-$12.

Coach bus from Guadalajara to Tequila

A Scenic Boat Ride

Last but not least on the list is taking a boat ride from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala. This is perfect for adventure enthusiasts that love soaking in the surrounding scenic view and enjoying the tranquility of the surrounding place.

Traveling through the ocean and experiencing the soothing sound of the lapping waves against the boat accounts for an amazing experience. Despite the amazing scenic route, the boat ride is quite pleasant.

Fare: The prices typically range between $15-$40 but the majority of the time, we’d recommend that you cross-check and compare the prices of the different service providers to avail the best deal.

What is the Distance Between Guadalajara to Lake Chapala

The distance between Guadalajara to Lake Chapala is roughly around 57 km by road. Without any stops, the trip takes around 45 minutes to an hour, enabling the travelers to witness the scenic beauty throughout the journey.

Best Things to Do in Lake Chapala

Planning a day trip to Lake Chapala to Guadalajara makes for an amazing getaway where you get to witness a variety of traditions, taste the tequila and get to try a diverse range of Mexican food.

Here’s how you can plan your entire day while you are in Lake Chapala:

Watch the Dance of the Flyers

If you are planning your day at Lake Chapala, start with the town center since that’s the best part of it. Even the weather in the area is stunning, making it perfect for you to spend a comfortable day exploring the surroundings.

While you are in the town, visit and explore Plaza de Chapala, where you can either walk around or explore the area. Also, experiencing Dance of the Flyers or Danza de los Voladores is another experience for the books.

Explore the charming town of Ajijic

The next thing that you need to include in the itinerary is exploring the town of Ajijic. It’s located around 5 km away from Lake Chapala when you are planning your next trip out.

This charming town on the lake’s shore offers a vibrant art scene, delightful local cuisine, and the opportunity to explore its colorful streets.

Witness the beautiful sunset in Jocotepec

One of the most underrated and offbeat spots that you can visit from Lake Chapala are Jocotepec. The lakeside town also has a pleasant temperature, making it perfect for daytime strolls but the best part is during the sunset period.

Besides watching the beautiful sunset, you can also explore Plaza Jocotepec, which is the town’s main square. Ideally, the best spot to watch the sunset is from the Malecón de Jocotepec.

Getting to Lake Chapala from Guadalajara

An easy and reliable way to buy tickets fast and at a good price from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala is gottoGO, you can search all transportation options. Look for buses, shuttles, private transportation around México with a reliable and easy-to-use platform, you can compare prices and schedules as well as do your search online.

Conclusion

A trip from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala is unlike anything else. The entire journey is perfect from the starting point, enabling you to witness an array of attractions along the way. The charmed towns and the scenic waterfronts are exhilarating to bear witness to. Also, the rejuvenating thermal springs promise to leave you with lasting memories.

FAQs

What is the best way to get from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala

The best way to travel from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala is either via a private transfer or via a shuttle service. It is a lot more convenient and flexible. However, if you are seeking adventure, a boat ride is a great option too. You can look for transfer options from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala here.

What is the best price to get from Guadalajara to Lake Chapala?

If you are on a strict budget, the bus fares are your best bet since they range between $2-$4. However, if you want more of an adventure, the boat ride is your ideal option.

What can I do at Lake Chapala?

Lake Chapala offers a variety of activities and tourist attractions. From exploring the nearby towns to the colorful streets, there is a lot that you can do.