Communities around Lake Chapala

Information on some of the many communities on Lake Chapala.

Ajijic
Several small towns make up the area surrounding the Lake. Ajijic is the area’s centerpiece. A description of Ajijic usually refers to the main village of Ajijic. 80% of the village is on the lake side of the Chapala-Ajijic highway. The central areas are what remains of the old village. You often have no idea of what lies behind the walls. To the West and East of the main village are areas with larger lots and some lovely walled estates. These areas are still between the highway and the lake. Most stores and restaurants are within walking distance.

Cobblestone streets and spectacular gardens hidden behind hand-carved wooden gates and colorful walls contribute to its charm. This is where most foreigners choose to live and although it is a laid-back place, there’s nightlife, lots of restaurants and adequate shopping (for serious shopping, Guadalajara is a ride away). English is spoken, making adapting to this new home easier than in other parts of Mexico.

Chapala
Cazadores (formerly Braniff house)Since the 1960s, Chapala has been frequented by both Mexican and international tourists. Among the area’s cultural attractions is mariachi music, for which the state of Jalisco is particularly known. While many fine mariachi bands have been based in Chapala, the most famous groups are based in larger cities nearby. The most famous mariachi in Mexico is Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, founded in the late 1800s in the southern Jalisco city of Tecalitlán, Jalisco, but now based in Mexico City. Although mariachi music is believed to have originated in the town of Cocula, the greatest concentration of mariachis can be found in the city of Guadalajara,Mariachis located about 30 miles north of Chapala; it is considered the city that most epitomizes the external concept of Mexico propagated by the international mass media (characterized by charros, tequila, sombreros, and mariachis). A worldwide mariachi festival is held there each fall, mariachis from throughout the world (including Europe and Asia) regularly participate.

The town of Chapala is the largest municipality in the area. It is the commercial center for the Lakeside community and has several banks and plenty of stores.

Chapala, along with its namesake lake, is well established as a weekend getaway destination primarily for inhabitants of the city of Guadalajara.

Chula Vista
Lake Chapala and mountainsChula Vista is a popular development East of Ajijic on the way to Chapala where you will find the local nine hole golf course. The development has two parts, lower Chula Vista with lower prices and older, smaller homes generally, and upper Chula Vista that can feature beautiful lake views and more upscale prices. The municipal water here is potable. The golf course fairways wind through much of upper Chula Vista. It is only a three minute drive to Ajijic and a 5 minute drive to Chapala.

Chula Vista Norte
This upscale development is only two minutes from Ajijic on the bypass from Guadalajara. Panoramic Lake and Mountain views are available in most home. A Gated communities this area is known for its wide streets, and its newer homes. This are give the feeling of space & serenity yet in close to shopping and other amenities easy access to the airport is another benefit of this development.
Another upscale section may eventually be added to this development.

Ixtlahuacan
This Mexican town is located in the first town north of the Lake Chapala basin on the way to Guadalajara. It is about 7 minutes north of Chapala. Since you pass over the ridge of the mountains surrounding the lake to get to this village, there are no views of the lake, but a development of new homes (Villas de Ixtlahuacan) here does have nice views to the North, overlooking the village.

Jocotepec
This town is officially a little smaller than Chapala, but in reality it is probably bigger. It is located about 13 minutes West of Ajijic. It is populated mainly by Mexicans with a few foreigners. The town seems to always be busy and the shopping is good.

Most of the people who work in Ajijic live in Jocotepec. This town is not completely obsessed with cobblestone streets, so many of the streets are paved. It is a fun place to visit too, with many fiestas and other activities in the town plaza.

This is the western edge of Lake Chapala. From here the secondary highway takes you to the Colima-Guadalajara highway, or you can turn left and proceed around the lake to the South shore.

La Floresta
Lake and Mount GarciaThis development is located on the eastern edge of Ajijic, close to all services. It is composed of two distinct areas, Upper La Floresta on the high side of the Chapala-Ajijic highway with some views, and Lower La Floresta, located from the highway down to the lake.

This is a nice non-gated development. Most homes have walls all around the property lines in the Spanish tradition. Homes on the lower side are generally on larger lots and more up-scale. The Real de Chapala Hotel is also located in this area. The streets are wide and built with cobblestones. The landscaping is generally mature and there are some beautiful trees often located in the center of the broad intersections. Septic tanks are used here, but the lots are big enough to handle them.

Mirasol
Mirasol is a small subdivision near Riberas del Pilar. These homes tend to be newer and mid range in price. There are interlocking brick roads which are lined with sidewalks. Close to shopping and other amenities make this area a good place to call home.