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Island · Pátzcuaro, Michoacán
Isla de Janitzio
Fishermen's island on Lake Pátzcuaro, crowned by the giant statue of Morelos, known for its Night of the Day of the Dead.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Isla de Janitzio
Janitzio is the largest island on Lake Pátzcuaro, inhabited by Purépecha fishermen. Houses and shops climb the hillside by alleys and stairways up to the top, where there is a statue of José María Morelos about 40 meters high, built in the 1930s.
Inside the statue, a spiral staircase passes murals about Morelos' life and leads to an observation point in the raised fist, with views of the lake and the other islands.
When boats arrive, fishermen often display butterfly-shaped nets, traditional on the lake. In the alleys, stalls sell fried white fish and charales.
On the night of November 1 to 2, families of Janitzio spend the night in the island cemetery with candles, cempasúchil flowers and offerings, in one of Mexico's best-known Day of the Dead celebrations.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours, including the boat.
Best time
In the morning, when the lake is calm. On Day of the Dead, the island becomes crowded.
How to get there
By boat from Pátzcuaro's main pier, about 3 km from the center, in about a 20-minute crossing.
Tip
Climb to the statue's fist for the lake view.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Isla de Janitzio
How to get to Janitzio?
By boat from Pátzcuaro's main pier, in about 20 minutes.
What is inside the Morelos statue?
A spiral staircase with murals about Morelos' life, up to an observation point in the fist.
What are butterfly nets?
Traditional fishing nets of Lake Pátzcuaro, shaped like wings.