Background

Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó: A Canvas of Culture

Discover the vibrant colors and rich Mayan culture of Santa Catarina Palopó, a village transformed into a living work of art.

4.9

Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó is a community project that transformed the town of Santa Catarina Palopó into a vibrant work of art. Houses are painted with colorful designs inspired by traditional Mayan textiles, reflecting the local culture and attracting tourists.

A brief summary to Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better lighting for photos.
  • Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the stories behind the murals.
  • Explore the surrounding streets for more local artwork and crafts.
  • Consider visiting the Centro Cultural to learn more about the local Kaqchikel Maya culture.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already in Santa Catarina Palopó, you can easily reach Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó by walking. Ask locals for directions to PVF7+FPG, or simply head towards the center of the village. The walk offers a scenic experience, allowing you to enjoy the colorful murals and local shops along the way.

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Panajachel, a tuk-tuk ride to Santa Catarina Palopó typically costs around Q25-50. Negotiate the price before starting the journey. The ride takes about 12-15 minutes, offering beautiful views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes.

  • Public Transport

    For a local experience from Panajachel, take a 'colectivo' (shared pickup truck) from near La Despensa grocery store. The cost is approximately Q3 per person. Alternatively, a shared jeep from Panajachel to Santa Catarina Palopó costs around Q10 per person. These options provide an authentic glimpse into local transportation.

Unlock the Best of Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó

Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó is more than just a museum; it's a living art project that has revitalized the town of Santa Catarina Palopó. In 2016, the Pintando el Cambio (Painting the Change) association initiated a project to paint over 850 buildings and homes with bright colors and traditional Maya designs. The goal was to promote tourism and social change through art and design, transforming the once-dull village into a colorful paradise. The project involved community leaders, local Mayan artists, and residents who worked together to select a color palette and designs based on the traditional güipil (blouse) and Mayan animal motifs. Each family can design and paint their own home, incorporating patterns from indigenous textiles. The result is a stunning visual display of blues, purples, greens, and other vibrant hues that adorn the entire town. Visitors can explore the town's charming streets, admire the colorful houses, and learn about the project's history and cultural significance at the Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó museum. The museum showcases the murals and tells the stories behind the designs, emphasizing the importance of art in fostering a sense of identity and pride among the people. The project has not only attracted tourists but also created jobs and stimulated the local economy.

Popular Experiences near Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó

Popular Hotels near Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó

Select Currency