Lake Chapala Tours

Chapala Jalisco
Chapala Jalisco
Laguna Chapala is a small town next to a lagoon where you can find beautiful Mexican colors and culture. Located at 1 hour from Guadalajara, is one of the “must” if you are visiting Jalisco. Next to it, you can find Ajijic, a place you’ll love to eat and walk. #mexico #guadalajara #jalisco #laguna #chapala #lagunachapala #ajijic #travelmexico #discovermexico #mexicoplaces #boats #tapatio
Lake Chapala is a natural reservoir of Mexico located mainly in the state of Jalisco. Total surface: 114 659 hectares (ha), of which Jalisco occupies 86% and Michoacán 14% This lake is considered the largest in the Mexico, is the main source of drinking water supply in ​​Guadalajara, because it contributes 60% of the water that reaches the city. It is the largest in the country with 1112 km². In February 2009 the lake has been declared a Ramsar Site (Wetland of International Importance) Tourism was established in the 19th century, when the first American tourist visited Chapala, shortly thereafter train trips were offered from Ocotlán to Chapala, and steam boat rides were taken along the lake shore. When President Porfirio Díaz visited Chapala, every year tourism grew by the presidential seal. But it was not until the 1950s that the reservoir found a good development for tourism in the region. It is the favorite place of some Americans and Canadians, having developed to date colonies of retirement of Americans. Pollution is something serious in the lake. There been serveral programs of the state government for the recovery of the basin, and tourism promotion, mainly national.

Plan a trip to see Lake Chapala

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
One Beach Street Zona Romantica Puerto Vallarta

One Beach Street Zona Romantica Puerto Vallarta

4 out of 5
Romantic Zone
Price was $2,015, price is now $912 per person
$912
per person
Apr 15 - Apr 20
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)
7.8/10 Good! (143 reviews)
Beach front property close to Malecon and local restaurants! Only inconvenient is that air conditioning did not work!

Reviewed on Jun 6, 2025

Grand Isla Navidad Golf & Spa Resort with Marina

Grand Isla Navidad Golf & Spa Resort with Marina

4.5 out of 5
Price was $2,413, price is now $1,137 per person
$1,137
per person
Mar 18 - Mar 23
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to Manzanillo (ZLO)
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
The room was clean. I had no idea if the water was potable. There was coffe, but only 1 cup.

Reviewed on Dec 21, 2025

Reviews of Lake Chapala

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
388
5 - Excellent 63%
4 - Good
175
4 - Good 28%
3 - Okay
42
3 - Okay 7%
2 - Disappointing
6
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
6
1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

It's beautiful.... Rent the boat to the isla... Just being able to walk around the isla is awesome. Beautiful View

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Close airport

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Mariachis at El Parian, Sergio Bustamante house

5/5 - Excellent

DrStu

Dozens of restaurants in and around Chapala and Ajijic.

2/5 - Disappointing

Jamie

The lake is very polluted, so very little activity

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Chapala can get a little sunny so be sure and take a light sweater. Sunscreen is always a must and traveling with a small umbrella is a good idea too. The views are beautiful

Popular places to visit

Views of Chapala Lake and Cerro de Garcia taken from Monte Coxala hotel

Monte Coxala Spa

4.5/5(49 reviews)

You can take time to visit Monte Coxala Spa during your travels to Raquet Club. Wander around the gardens in this relaxing area, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Monte Coxala Spa

Mezcala Island

Explore the great outdoors at Mezcala Island, a lovely green space in Poncitlán. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Mezcala Island

Mezcala Island

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Mezcala Island during your travels in Chapala. Wander around the gardens in this relaxing area, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Mezcala Island

Lomas de Chapala Country Club

4.5/5(2 reviews)

Enjoy a round of golf in San Nicolás de Ibarra at Lomas de Chapala Country Club. Wander the lakeside and gardens in this relaxing area.

Lomas de Chapala Country Club

Isla de los Alacranes

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Isla de los Alacranes during your travels in Chapala. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Isla de los Alacranes

Jesus Gonzalez Gallo Cultural Center

5/5(1 review)

Jesus Gonzalez Gallo Cultural Center is just one of the places to see in Chapala, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the lakeside and gardens in this relaxing area.

Jesus Gonzalez Gallo Cultural Center

Best Lodging Options Near Lake Chapala

Memora Hotel & Villas Chapala

Memora Hotel & Villas Chapala

3.5 out of 5
Carretera Guadalajara-Chapala 8890 Chapala JAL
Memora Hotel & Villas Chapala
Hilton Garden Inn Guadalajara Airport

Hilton Garden Inn Guadalajara Airport

3.5 out of 5
Carr. Guadalajara Chapala Km 17.5 Tlajomulco de Zúñiga JAL
Hilton Garden Inn Guadalajara Airport
Hangar Inn Guadalajara Aeropuerto

Hangar Inn Guadalajara Aeropuerto

3.5 out of 5
Carretera Guadalajara - Chapala 200 Tlajomulco de Zúñiga JAL
Hangar Inn Guadalajara Aeropuerto
Hotel ANB Aeropuerto Guadalajara

Hotel ANB Aeropuerto Guadalajara

3.5 out of 5
Av Solidaridad Iberoamericana 7143 El Salto JAL
Hotel ANB Aeropuerto Guadalajara
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Guadalajara Aeropuerto

Ramada Encore by Wyndham Guadalajara Aeropuerto

4 out of 5
AV SOLIDARIDAD IBEROAMERICANA 6500 COL El Salto
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Guadalajara Aeropuerto
Hangar Select Aeropuerto Guadalajara

Hangar Select Aeropuerto Guadalajara

3 out of 5
Avenida Solidaridad 7864 El Salto JAL
Hangar Select Aeropuerto Guadalajara
Hotel Bugari Aeropuerto Guadalajara

Hotel Bugari Aeropuerto Guadalajara

3.5 out of 5
7842 Av. la Piedrera Baja California El Salto JAL
Hotel Bugari Aeropuerto Guadalajara
City Express by Marriott Guadalajara Aeropuerto

City Express by Marriott Guadalajara Aeropuerto

3 out of 5
Carretera Guadalajara a Chapala No 7610 El Salto JAL
City Express by Marriott Guadalajara Aeropuerto
Fiesta Inn Guadalajara Aeropuerto

Fiesta Inn Guadalajara Aeropuerto

3 out of 5
Carretera Guadalajara Chapala El Salto JAL
Fiesta Inn Guadalajara Aeropuerto
See all 1,931 properties in Lake Chapala
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Chapala

Lake Chapala offers a variety of activities for visitors, including lively dancing, relaxing spa treatments, and vibrant live music. Key experiences include exploring the Chapala and Ajijic areas, taking a scenic boat trip, enjoying outdoor adventures, and embarking on day trips around the lake. Don’t miss the chance to tour the stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, visit Laguna Shopping Centre, located 15 miles from Lake Chapala. This vibrant shopping destination offers a mix of entertainment, dining, and family-friendly activities, making it a great spot for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Escape to Lomas de Chapala Country Club for a luxurious experience amid beautiful landscapes. At Monte Coxala Spa, indulge in rejuvenating treatments and unwind in a serene atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts, Chula Vista Country Club offers a challenging golf course with stunning views, perfect for an active day.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Tobolandia, a vibrant waterpark located 16 miles from Lake Chapala. Enjoy exhilarating water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, all while soaking up the fun, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for adventure seekers of all ages.

Nightlife

Lake Chapala offers a vibrant nightlife with a mix of bars and live music. Check out the Ajijic Plaza for outdoor festivities and local bands. For a cozy drink, visit the El Barco, where you can enjoy cocktails and socialize with both locals and tourists alike.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lake Chapala

Explore the beauty of Lake Chapala, where you can visit charming islands, scenic piers, and historic churches. This destination offers a perfect mix of beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Don't miss the major attractions around Chapala Lake, including its stunning exterior views, which promise unforgettable memories for every traveler.

  • Mezcala Island: A serene escape located 3 miles from Lake Chapala, Mezcala Island offers beautiful beaches and lush outdoor vibes. It's perfect for a day of relaxation, swimming, and enjoying picturesque views of the lake surrounded by nature.
  • Chapala Malecon: Situated 12 miles from Lake Chapala, the Chapala Malecon is a charming jetty that provides a relaxing and secluded atmosphere. Stroll along the waterfront, savor local cuisine at nearby eateries, and enjoy the stunning sunsets that paint the sky.
  • Jesus Gonzalez Gallo Cultural Center: Located 11 miles from Lake Chapala, this cultural center is a hub for arts and culture. Explore its exhibits that celebrate local history and artistic expression, making it a great spot for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Tips to save on your trip to Lake Chapala

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Lake Chapala.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically October and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to Lake Chapala.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia