Trip Planner: Central America / Guatemala / Western Highlands / Solola Department / Lake Atitlan / Panajachel / Iximche

Iximche, Panajachel

4.5

#1 of 11 in Historic Sites in Western Highlands

Step back to the 15th century and learn about Mayan culture at Iximche. Dating back to about 1470, the local area was once the capital of the Late Postclassic Kaqchikel Maya kingdom, until it was abandoned in 1524. Find the remains of pyramid-temples, palaces, and two Mesoamerican ball courts, all of which sit in ruins on a flat grassy area. Nature has taken over some parts of the ruins, with grass growing at the top of the pyramid remains. Hire a local guide to learn about the history of Mayan culture and, more specifically, the archaeological site. To find out how to plan a trip to Panajachel, use our trip itinerary maker.

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Iximche Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

261 reviews

Google

4.6

By Vasaul On January 29, 2018

Great place to visit with s guide. A lot to learn about the history of Iximche and the early Maya history. Large area of ruins fairly recently discovered. more »
By Daniel C On January 19, 2018

en rentrant de panajachel nous avons visité ce site situé sur un promontoire naturel avec de nombreux vestiges more »

After returning from panajachel we visited this site, located on a natural promontory with vestiges

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By Silvana G On January 16, 2018

I resti archeologici non sono spettacolari come quelli di Tikal o di Quiriguà, ma l'atmosfera ad Iximche è particolare. Il sito è frequentato da molti indigeni. Molto tranquillo, in mezzo al verde, mo... more »

The archaeological remains are not spectacular as those of Tikal or Quiriguà, but the atmosphere at Iximche is particular. The site is frequented by many natives. Very quiet, green area, very nice and well maintained. We had a very young and very prepared that we made the visit very enjoyable.

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By Shannon Lord On January 18, 2018

The history is so interesting it is not full of large temples like Tical... But the grounds are beautiful. Spend the money on a guided tour. Alex's (tour guide found at the entrance to the park) English was fantastic and he has great knowledge and insight that you won't get without a guide.

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By Graciane Baumstark On February 4, 2018

Great experience on this small Mayan ruins. But very rich in details thanks to our guide Luis. (He speaks perfect English)

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By Mrs.Jimenez , Lesly On January 24, 2018

Had a great time with the family. It's really nice.... My hubby liked it had fun...

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By J Brew On November 26, 2017

This is an extremely interesting Mayan archaeological site that dates from about 1460. There are three pyramids along with a ceremonial site and some ball courts. Well worth visiting. One recommendation is to visit with a guide that speaks your native language if you don't understand Spanish.

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By Jeff Todd On August 17, 2017

We had a great time at Iximche. It was definitely worth hiring a guide, though he only spoke Spanish. His name was Dionidas and he was knowledgeable and well trained in explaining features of the ruins. Getting there early was nice as there were few people when arrived shortly before 9.

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