Travel Guide to Lake Atitlán, Guatemala: Where to Go, Stay & Explore
Nestled in the Guatemalan highlands and surrounded by volcanic peaks, Lake Atitlán is one of Central America's most beautiful and culturally rich destinations. Each lakeside village has its own vibe, from hippie hideouts to party hubs to peaceful retreats. Whether you're a backpacker, digital nomad, or slow traveler, Lake Atitlán has a place for you.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your stay, hop between towns, and get the most out of this volcanic wonderland.
Why Lake Atitlán?
Stunning scenery: Surrounded by three volcanoes (San Pedro, Atitlán, and Tolimán)
Unique villages with distinct personalities
Affordable travel and lodging
Maya culture, art, and traditions
Yoga retreats, outdoor adventure, and lively expat scene
Fun Fact: Lake Atitlán is the deepest lake in all of Central America with a maximum depth of about 340 meters or 1,120 feet
How to Get to Lake Atitlán
From Antigua: Shuttles run daily (3 hours, ~$15 USD)
From Guatemala City: Private shuttles or Uber (~3.5 hours), or chicken buses if you're on a budget
Arrive at Panajachel, the main transit hub, and take a public boat (lancha) to other towns
Getting Around the Lake
Public boats (lanchas) run regularly between towns (every ~20–40 minutes, $1–3 USD depending on distance)
Boats stop running around 5:30 PM, so plan accordingly
Tuk-tuks available within towns
The Popular Towns Around the Lake
1. Panajachel ("Pana")
Best for: First-timers, transport hub, souvenirs
Vibe: Bustling, touristy, convenient
Highlights: Calle Santander market, boat dock, sunset views
Kev’s Pick | Hostel World
Dreamboat Hostel
Hostel Pick: Fun, laidback, social hostel - hidden right in the heart of Panajachel, Lake Atitlan. A very unique setting, with friendly people.
2. San Pedro La Laguna
Best for: Backpackers, nightlife, Spanish schools
Vibe: Lively, social, budget-friendly
Highlights: Bars, hiking Volcán San Pedro, cafes, lakeside lounging
Hostel Picks:
Zoola — Pool, parties, and great food
Mr. Mullet's Hostel — Legendary for social events and pub crawls
Kev’s Pick
Los Termales
Looking to relax after a long travel-day? One of my favorite things to do in San Pedro was the hot pools at Los Termales! Los Termales is a business that offers massages, saunas, and a series of hot and cold pools that offer stunning views of Lake Atitlan. When we visited, an hour to enjoy the hot pools cost around $40 USD.
3. San Marcos La Laguna
Best for: Wellness seekers, yoga lovers, spiritual retreats
Vibe: Boho, peaceful, New Age
Highlights: Yoga classes, holistic healing, Moon Na restaurant, nature reserves
Hostel Pick: Eagle's Nest Atitlán — yoga + panoramic views + eco-luxury
4. Santa Cruz La Laguna
Best for: Disconnecting, scenic beauty, diving
Vibe: Remote, tranquil, scenic
Highlights: Kayaking, diving, local culture, hiking to Jaibalito
Hostel Pick: La Iguana Perdida — lakeside views, dive center, social dinners
5. Jaibalito
Best for: Seclusion, slow travel
Vibe: Tiny and quiet
Highlights: Nature, remote vibe, walkable from Santa Cruz
Hostel Pick: Vulcano Lodge — peaceful with great food and hot tub views
Kev’s Pick
La Casa Del Mundo Hotel
People love La Casa del Mundo hotel in Lake Atitlán, Guatemala for its breathtaking cliffside views, unique rooms built into the hillside, and its tranquil, off-the-grid atmosphere. Nestled between Jaibalito and Santa Cruz La Laguna, it's only accessible by boat, adding to its secluded charm. Guests rave about:
Unmatched lake and volcano views from every room and terrace
Charming, handcrafted rooms with Guatemalan décor and hammocks
Family-style dinners that foster community among guests
Peaceful setting perfect for relaxing, reading, or journaling
Easy boat access to nearby villages for day trips
It’s considered one of the most romantic and serene places to stay on the lake — ideal for couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking to disconnect in nature.
6. San Juan La Laguna
Best for: Culture, local art, women-run cooperatives
Vibe: Authentic, clean, artsy
Highlights: Weaving demonstrations, mural art tours, organic coffee farms
Hostel Pick: Few traditional hostels — best for day trips or homestays
7. Santiago Atitlán
Best for: Markets, traditional Maya culture, off-the-beaten-path
Vibe: Local, busy, historical
Highlights: Maximon shrine, Sunday market, murals, textiles
Hostel Pick: Hotel Tiosh Abaj (not a hostel but affordable)
Best Time to Visit Lake Atitlán
Dry Season (November to April)
Best weather, clear views, ideal for hiking and exploring
Most popular for tourists — book hostels early in December/January
Rainy Season (May to October)
Lush landscapes, fewer crowds
Mornings are usually clear; rain starts mid-afternoon
Best time for budget travelers — cheaper stays and quieter towns
Tip: September is the rainiest month; avoid if you’re not into getting wet
Travel Tips for Lake Atitlán
Bring cash: ATMs are limited outside Panajachel
Download maps offline: reception is spotty in remote towns
Learn some basic Spanish: helpful in non-touristy villages
Don’t miss sunrise hikes or kayaking at dawn
Respect local customs: especially when photographing locals or visiting religious sites
Pack layers: warm mornings, cool nights, and sudden showers
For Wi-Fi/digital nomads, stay in Panajachel or San Marcos
Use filtered water to avoid stomach issues
Final Thoughts
Lake Atitlán is a place that invites you to stay longer than planned. Whether you're hopping town to town or setting up camp for a week of yoga and views, there’s no wrong way to experience it. Let the volcanoes guide your mornings, the lake calm your evenings, and the colors of Maya culture inspire everything in between.
-Kevin
