Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions- FAQs about Ajijic and the area.
When people first come or are planning on coming to Ajijic there are always lots of questions. Below are some of the most common FAQs that people ask and the answers to them. If you have any other questions please contact us through our contact page.
Which airport is closest to Ajijic, Mexico?
The Guadalajara airport, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport is 38 kilometres (23.8 miles) from Ajijic. It takes approximately 40 minutes to drive.
Is it safe in Ajijic?
Like everywhere in the world where, when and how you move around town is important to your safety. Traveling during the day on foot in populated areas is safe, and if out driving at night stay on the main roads and travel with a companion.
Can I use my phone from north of the border in Ajijic?
Yes, you can absolutely use your North American (U.S. or Canadian) phone in Ajijic. The Lake Chapala area has excellent cellular coverage, primarily powered by Mexico’s major networks like Telcel and AT&T Mexico.
How it works and what it costs depends entirely on your specific carrier and plan.
How much money will I spend for rent?
Depending on the type of accommodation you desire rents vary greatly depending on location, property type, amenities on the property and whether it’s a new or older build. A small one bedroom casita might cost anywhere from 300 usd to 500 usd. A two bedroom house from 800 usd to 1200 usd, a three bedroom from 1,200 usd to 2000 usd.
Usually the homes are furnished, and whether the utilities and staff are included in the rent varies. You will need to inquire and have all inclusions in your rental agreement.
Can you drink the water in Ajijic?
The water is NOT purified so it is best you buy bottled water for drinking, dental care and food preparation.
What percentage tip is customary for wait staff, and services?
It is customary to tip anywhere from 10% to 20% based on the service for restaurant and bar staff and services in beauty salons and spas. Tips to grocery baggers, store clerks, gas station attendants
How do I get to Ajijic from the airport?
There are taxi booths “TAXI” just outside of the International and Domestic Arrivals gates. The taxi ride to Ajijic is under 600 pesos. You will pay it to the booth attendant and he will give you a ticket to give to the taxi driver outside. Only go with the official taxi drivers in the white airport taxi cars.
Is there public transit in Ajijic?
If you are just zipping back and forth between Ajijic and Chapala, it is incredibly straightforward. It’s a straight shot east-west along the main highway (the Carretera), a distance of about 8 kilometers (5 miles).
Taking the Bus
The local buses are your best bet. You can walk up to the Carretera and catch either the large full-size buses or the smaller red-and-white local buses heading east toward Chapala.
- Catching a Ride: You can wait at a designated bus shelter or simply stand on the side of the highway and wave your hand down at the approaching bus.
- The Cost: It is roughly $12 to $18 Mexican Pesos per person (less than $1 USD).
- Paying: You pay the driver directly in cash as you board. Always try to use small change or $20 and $50 peso bills—drivers absolutely hate trying to break a $200 or $500 peso bill for a local fare.
- The Route: The large buses stay strictly on the Carretera and will get you into the main Chapala bus terminal (at Avenida Madero) in about 12 to 15 minutes. The smaller buses may take a slightly slower, winding route through the neighborhood streets of San Antonio Tlayacapan along the way.
Alternative: Local Taxis
If you don’t want to wait for the bus or have heavy shopping bags, you can easily grab a local taxi. There is a main taxi stand right by the central plaza in Ajijic (near Calle Colón). A one-way taxi ride between Ajijic and Chapala typically runs between $150 to $200 pesos (roughly $8 to $11 USD).
What credit and debit cards can I use in Ajijic?
Cash is the usual form of payment Lakeside. However, some bigger stores like grocery stores,Walmart, some brand stores in the mall, a few higher end boutique shops and spas, and most restaurants will take credit cards.
You can use your NOB debit cards at the bank machines in town.
How much will my expenses be?
Expenses are based on your lifestyle and standard of living. Some people like to eat out on a regular basis and others like to cook at home. Based on averages this is what you can expect to spend in Ajijic. Dinner for two: appetizer, entree and a bottle of wine $1,500 pesos.
Movies: drink, popcorn admission for 2. 200pesos.
Groceries: Fresh produce at the market 200 pesos week. Cooking at home 5 days a week.
Groceries and household supplies: 1500 pesos a week. Cooking at home 5 days a week.
Cleaning Lady: 100 pesos
Where can I buy bottled water?
Bottled water is available in various sizes in all stores. You can get home delivery from Santorini, Jocotepec, and Bonafont. Large 20 litre bottles cost approximately 38 pesos each.
Where can I meet people from north of the border?
The Lake Chapala Society is the best place to go to get yourself acclimated when you arrive in Ajijic.
You can meet people from NOB at most bars, restaurants, sporting/outdoor groups and around the Ajijic plaza. You will find them easy to talk toand before long you will have met many new friends.