Lake Atitlan: Guatemala

Lake Atitlan ranks as the third largest lake in Guatemala and stands out as the most popular lake destination, as well as a key tourist spot in the country. Guatemala boasts the highest number of volcanoes in Central America, totaling 37, and Lake Atitlan itself originated from a volcanic eruption around 84,000 years ago, forming a crater that was later filled by water from two nearby rivers. With a depth of 341 meters, Atitlan is the deepest lake in Central America. The lake is encircled by 11 to 15 different towns or villages (depending on who you ask), each offering its own distinctive traits.

Map

some of the towns/ villages:

Panajachel

Panajachel, often referred to as "Pana" by locals, serves as the entry point to Lake Atitlán. It is the main town around Lake Atitlán. Most shuttles from Antigua arrive here, enabling you to take boats to other locations around the lake. Situated in the Guatemalan Highlands, Panajachel lies west of Guatemala City on the northern shore of Lake Atitlán. The lake is encircled by the San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán volcanoes. Calle Santander, the main street, is lined with cafes, bars, and stalls selling handicrafts and textiles. In the old town, the colonial San Francisco Church with its stone facade can be found. Boats connect Panajachel with Mayan villages along the lakeside.

Santa Cruz La Laguna

It's not really a place for exploration like the others, but rather a location where you might want to stay. Located about 10 minutes from Panajachel, Santa Cruz La Laguna is a traditional Maya village nestled on the steep mountainside of the lake, roughly 325 vertical feet (99 m) above the lake's surface, with a population of around 3,100. The village can only be accessed by boat or footpath. A single, winding road connects the dock to the village. There is a very rough road linking Santa Cruz to Sololá, used for transporting heavy goods, concrete blocks, furniture, and a few vehicles. The village lacks roads, a telephone system, or a commercial center, although a common gathering place is the sports court, where children play basketball and soccer. Electricity is sporadic and expensive, so it isn't installed in many homes. Santa Cruz La Laguna perfectly exemplifies a village!

San Pedro La Laguna

San Pedro blends the traditional Guatemalan lifestyle with a vibrant backpacker atmosphere. As the second largest town by the lake, it is a favored destination. Known as the backpacker hub, San Pedro is the most lively and tourist-oriented of the villages. It's packed with hostels, the best restaurants around Lake Atitlan, cafes, and bars, offering the most nightlife options in an otherwise tranquil area that quiets down early. It's an exciting place to visit! The town features a significant Israeli influence, with many businesses run by Israeli expatriates. Traveling from Panajachel to San Pedro takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on whether you choose the public boat, which makes several stops, or a private water taxi. Recommended duration: half to a full day, with the option to stay through the evening if you're interested in the nightlife.

San Marcos la Laguna

San Marcos is a tranquil and relaxed town celebrated for its natural beauty and spiritual ambiance, often referred to as “The Hippie Town.” It attracts travelers interested in yoga, meditation, and various spiritual practices such as chakra and energy healing, crystals, shamans, and plant medicine ceremonies. Lake Atitlan is believed to be situated on a vortex, enhancing the spiritual essence of the area and earning it the nickname “the Sedona of Central America.” The main thoroughfare, known as “the Hippie Highway,” is lined with diverse shops, kiosks, and vegan cafes. Many visitors come to San Marcos for yoga and meditation retreats. Even if you’re not participating in a Lake Atitlan Yoga Retreat, attending a yoga class is essential, as the views from the yoga platform are among the finest around the lake. It’s an enjoyable place to visit, even without engaging in yoga. Additionally, in San Marcos, you should definitely spend time at the nature reserve, Reserva Natural del Cerro Tzankujil, where you can swim and cliff jump into the lake. Recommended time to spend: Between the Nature Reserve, exploring the town, and special events at Eagle’s Nest, a full day is advised.

San Juan Lake Atitlan

San Juan is another small, infrequently visited town on the lake. Since it's close to San Pedro, you don't need to take a lancha; just hop in the back of a "pickup" for an inexpensive ride. San Juan is an artisan hub featuring natural textile weaving and coffee co-ops, among other art cooperatives. Many of these are specifically designed to support the women of the community. The hilly town of San Juan is lined with colorful umbrella streets, offering an experience that feels both touristy and authentic. It's the perfect place to purchase textiles, ceramics, and other handicrafts. If you're looking to do some souvenir shopping, San Juan is the best spot on Lake Atitlan for it. Recommended time to spend: A few hours. San Juan is right next to San Pedro, so you can visit here first and then head over to San Pedro on the same day.

Santiago Atitlán

Santiago Atitlan is among the most traditional towns on Lake Atitlan. It serves as the spiritual hub for the Tz’utujil Maya people, where many residents can be seen in their traditional attire, speaking the indigenous language, and adhering to traditional lifestyles. This town is deeply religious, featuring several significant Mayan temples, ceremonial sites, and churches. Santiago is also the home of Maximon, a traditional Mayan deity highly revered by the locals. Santiago Atitlan is an excellent destination for those seeking to experience the authentic side of Lake Atitlan and learn about the country's rich Mayan heritage and spiritual customs. Santiago Lake Atitlan is the farthest point from Panajachel, approximately 45 minutes by boat.

Santa Catarina Palopó

Santa Catarina Palopo is one of the most picturesque towns around Atitlan, known for its vibrant painting project featuring buildings adorned with colorful geometric designs. This traditional Kaqchikel Mayan village offers a lush, open waterfront and some pleasant accommodations. The town is also famous for its lakeside hot springs, Aguas Termales Natural. Situated just a short 10-minute boat ride from Panajachel, Santa Catarina is best enjoyed over a few hours.

Tzununa

Often overlooked, Tzununa is a delightful discovery. This quiet, small village features two permaculture farms, a few yoga spots, a Saturday open-air market brimming with fruits and vegetables, several hotel-style accommodations, and is home to Love Probiotics, a small-batch Kombucha distributor in Guatemala. Tzununa is also within walking distance of the busier San Marcos and offers access to trails and lanchas (boats) that transport you to other lakeside towns like the bustling Panajachel.