Colourful, vibrant markets; a chance to immerse yourself in local culture
Disadvantages:
May get hassled to see a pagan sacrifice of a chicken
Recommend to potential buyers:
yes
Full review
Chichicastenango is about an hour from Panajachel, high up in the western Guatemalan mountains. It is a fairly small town, still stuck in its old ways, with a few hostels and cheap hotels for the budget traveller.
Even if you are not an avid buyer of local goods, the expansive market scattered throughout the cobblestone streets is fantastic for people watching and taking in of the 'real' Guatemala. Souvenirs (especially masks, beads, and patchwork and embroidery) a plenty, often cheaper than the markets in Antigua. There is also the oppurtunity to kit yourself out in bright indigenous clothing. However, as I learnt to my cost, if you see 1 item you particularly love in one town, buy it, as you might not necessarily see a similar one again!
A definite must is a stop off at Iglesia de Santo Tomas (photos not allowed inside - also be aware that you should ask people if you want to take a photo of them). Candles and beautiful flowers are on sale outside, and inside people arrange these for open prayer - an experience I will never forget. Be aware that you may be hassled into seeing an 'authentic pagan sacrifice' of a chicken, but these are mainly arranged for american tourists, and detract from the experience.
The market is on every thursday and sunday, so you only really need a day or two here, but be warned of the market traffic early morning and late afternoon if you are trying to make a quick getaway to your next destination. Tours are available from Antiuga covering both Panajachel and Chichicastenango. However, for the experience-seeking traveller, the local buses are a lot cheaper and I chatted away with the very friendly locals in my somewhat limited spanish.
