When English philosopher and writer Aldous Huxley visited Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán in 1934, he compared it favourably to Lake Como.
“Lake Como, it seems to me, touches on the limit of permissibly picturesque, but Atitlán is Como with additional embellishments of several immense volcanoes. It really is too much of a good thing,” he wrote in Beyond the Mexique Bay.
A caldera lake formed by volcanic activity, Lake Atitlán is the deepest lake in Central America. This 80.7 square mile (130 sq. km) body of shimmering water is rendered even more picturesque by the volcanic peaks that encircle it. Small Mayan villages are nestled into the shoreline, surrounded by terraced fields, coffee plantations and swathes of lush rainforest.
Atitlán is Como with additional embellishments of several immense volcanoes. It really is too much of a good thing
I spent several weeks at Lake Atitlán a few years ago, based in the backpacker town of San Pedro La Laguna while attending a Spanish language school. I stayed with a local family, joining them every morning for breakfast of tortillas, eggs and beans, with a side order of halting conversation, before heading off for class.
My spare time was spent exploring. I rented a kayak and paddled across the lake, enjoying the sound of my oars dipping in and out of the water. I hiked on trails through the forest and up volcanic slopes. Caught lanchas (small motorboats) across the water to nearby towns, to browse local markets and relax in lakeside cafes with newfound friends.
In this guide to Lake Atitlan, I've suggested some of my favourite activities in the area, alongside the best places to stay and when to visit.
Where is Lake Atitlan?
Lake Atitlán is located in the southwestern highlands of Guatemala, between Quetzaltenango and Guatemala City. It lies in the Sololá department, approximately 50 miles (80km) west of Guatemala City and 31 miles (50km) southeast of Quetzaltenango.
What to Do in Lake Atitlan
1. Climb a Volcano
Lake Atitlán is ringed with volcanoes, which offer some adventurous trekking opportunities. One of the most popular is an ascent of Volcán San Pedro (3,020m/9,908ft), where you’ll hike on a steep path up through the cloud forest. Through clearings in the forest, you’ll catch a glimpse of the glimmering lake below, and the volcanoes encircling it. The hike takes between five and six hours but shouldn’t be underestimated, as it involves around 1,200 metres (3,937ft) of ascent.
Through clearings in the forest, you’ll catch a glimpse of the glimmering lake below, and the volcanoes encircling it
Experienced hikers can also climb Volcán Atitlán, Lake Atitlán’s highest volcano at 3,535m (11,597ft). You’ll follow a trail upwards through dense greenery before emerging onto the scree summit slope - it’s a scramble on hands and knees to the top. Another challenging summit hike is 3,158m-high (10,361ft) Volcán Tolimán, located between Volcán San Pedro and Volcán Atitlán. Out of the three, San Pedro is the most accessible, with a well-maintained trail leading to breathtaking vistas of Lake Atitlán.
2. Hike the Lower Mayan Trail
The Lower Mayan Trail is a hike along the remote northern section of Lake Atitlan, following a path used by the Kachekel Maya for centuries. Beginning by the lakeshore in the village of Santa Cruz La Laguna, you’ll follow a winding 5.5 mile (9km) footpath over the foothills and forests surrounding the lake.
On the way, you’ll pass through two Mayan villages, Jaibalito and Tzunana, and encounter farmers tending their crops and coffee plantations. As you climb over hills and ridges, you’ll have spectacular views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes. You’ll finish in San Marcos La Laguna, where you’ll be able to find refreshments. You can then catch a boat back to Santa Cruz (the hike can also be done in reverse if you prefer).
3. Kayak On Lake Atitlan
One of the best ways to explore Lago Atitlán is on water. Rent a kayak and paddle across the glassy waters, gliding past the lakeside villages and pulling ashore to swim in hidden coves at your own pace.
All the larger towns offer kayak rental facilities. You can either head out by yourself or embark on a longer guided expedition. I recommend kayaking in the morning if you can, when the water is calmest - it becomes windier in the afternoon, with more waves to contend with (and during the rainy season, there can be afternoon downpours).
4. Visit the Reserva Natural Atitlán
This verdant nature reserve is located minutes from Panajachel, but a far cry from the bustle of the town centre. Three hiking trails wind through the lush forest, one leading across six wooden suspension bridges, and another down to a quiet lake shore beach.
There’s a chance to see wildlife in the reserve, including monkeys and coatis, racoon-like animals with long noses. Visit the reserve’s geo-dome to see hundreds of colourful butterflies.
Looking for something a little more adrenaline-fuelled? There are several zip lines through the tree canopy, and you can also try the CableBike - riding across a cable on a specially designed bicycle.
5. Go On a Mountain Bike Ride
The foothills, forest tracks and volcanic slopes around Lake Atitlán make it a fantastic destination for mountain biking. There are plenty of route options, including the Atitlan Slickrock Ride, a singletrack route beginning in the town of Las Trampas and passing through pine forests and small Mayan communities. It descends over 1,000 metres downhill to Panajachel.
You can cycle from town to town along the dirt roads tracing the lakeshore, or venture higher into the mountains, ridges and canyons surrounding it. Go on a guided trip and you’ll have a local expert to show you the best trails.
6. Soak in a Hot Spring or Thermal Bath
Lake Atitlán is fed by several geothermal springs, creating pockets of warm water within the lake itself. Head to the Aguas Termales Natural near the village of Santa Catarina Palopó to soothe your tired limbs alongside the locals.
Another option is Los Termales in San Pedro La Laguna, where you can pay a few Guatemalan quetzales to soak in private hot pools. There are also cold plunge pools and rejuvenating massages on offer. Many of the more upmarket properties around the lake also have private hot tubs available.
7. Shop for Local Handicrafts
Looking for a souvenir? We recommend buying handicrafts or ceramics made by the indigenous Tz'utujil and Kaqchikel Maya who live in the villages surrounding Lake Atitlán. San Juan La Laguna is known for its women’s artisan cooperatives - it’s a great place to buy woven clothes and textiles. Meanwhile, San Anonio Palopo is famed for its ceramics.
Sololá is located up the hill from Panajachel, and has two markets, where the Kaqchikel Maya gather every Tuesday and Friday in their traditional clothing to buy and sell goods. It’s a riot of sights, sounds and smells - alongside fruit, vegetables and meat, you can also buy handicrafts and try local dishes at the food court.
Can You Swim in Lake Atitlan?
Yes, you can swim in Lake Atitlán. The lake is a popular destination for water activities such as kayaking, SUP and swimming. However, water quality can vary, and swimmers should check local conditions for pollution levels or algal blooms before entering. Some areas have stronger currents, so caution is advised.
Your guide or local tour operator will be able to help you find the best swimming spots in Lake Atitlan.
Where to Stay in Lake Atitlán
The best places to stay in Lake Atitlán depend on your travel style. San Marcos is known for yoga and wellness retreats, while San Pedro is popular with backpackers and has good access to the lake’s volcano hikes.
Here's a breakdown of five of Lake Atitlán’s villages, highlighting the unique charm and advantages of each.
Panajachel
- Best for: first timers
Panajachel, often called “Pana” by locals and travellers alike, is the main entry point to Lake Atitlán and the most developed town in the area. With a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, and artisan markets, it’s the most convenient choice for visitors who want easy access to transportation and amenities.
The town’s main street, Calle Santander, is lined with restaurants, souvenir shops, and tour agencies offering boat trips and excursions. While it lacks the secluded charm of some smaller villages, Panajachel is a good base for first-time visitors. It’s also conveniently located near the Reserva Natural Atitlán.
San Pedro La Laguna
- Best for: socialising and hiking
On my trip to Lake Atitlán, I based myself in San Pedro. It's a backpackers’ favourite, thanks to its affordable accommodation (including homestays and hostels) and social atmosphere. Like me, a lot of travellers come here to learn Spanish. Many stay for weeks, if not months, attracted by the buzz of its bars and the tranquility of its lakeside cafes.
Its location on the western side of Lake Atitlán offers stunning views of Volcán San Pedro, which adventurous hikers can climb for breathtaking panoramas. It’s also close to the trailheads for Volcán Atitlán and Volcán Tolimán.
San Juan la Laguna
- Best for: indigenous Mayan culture
The picturesque village of San Juan La Laguna is known for its indigenous Tz’utujil Maya culture, colourful murals, and community-run weaving cooperatives where you can learn about traditional textile-making.
Many local artists and coffee growers call San Juan home, and visitors can explore workshops, organic coffee farms, and art galleries showcasing handmade crafts. Unlike its livelier neighbour San Pedro, San Juan offers a more tranquil setting, making it ideal for those who appreciate local culture and traditions.
San Marcos La Laguna
- Best for: relaxing
San Marcos is Lake Atitlán’s centre for wellness and new age spirituality. Surrounded by lush greenery, this peaceful village is known for its yoga retreats, meditation centres, and holistic healing practices.
Even if sound healing and energy work doesn't float your boat, you'll enjoy unwinding by the water. I really enjoyed visiting to soak up the more relaxed atmosphere that the village offers.
Santa Catarina Palopó
- Best for: local colour
Just a short drive from Panajachel, Santa Catarina Palopó is one of the most visually striking villages around the lake. But it wasn’t always this way - until a few years ago, few tourists visited and the villagers struggled to make a living through subsistence farming. A project called Pintando El Cambio, or ‘Painting for Change’ is regenerating the town by painting its houses in striking colours and patterns. It’s now known as Lake Atitlán’s ‘most colourful village’.
A project called Pintando El Cambio, or ‘Painting for Change’ is regenerating the town by painting its houses in striking colours and patterns
Alongside admiring the vibrant houses, there’s also a small museum and cultural centre you can visit - the latter offering handicrafts for sale. There’s a natural thermal hot spring a short distance from the town centre, which is frequented by locals and travellers alike. It’s a great choice for those looking to experience Mayan culture away from the crowds.
How to Get to Lake Atitlan
To get to Lake Atitlán, fly into La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. From there, take a shuttle, private car, or bus to Panajachel, the main gateway to the lake. The drive takes about three to four hours. From Panajachel, take a boat (lancha) to other lakeside villages.
Best Time to Visit Lake Atitlan
Lake Atitlán can be visited all year round. The most popular time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April. These months offer clear skies, warm days, and calm waters, ideal for outdoor activities. The rainy season, from May to October, brings afternoon showers but fewer tourists and lush landscapes.
Inspired? Visit Lake Atitlán as part of our Ultimate Adventure Through Guatemala, or the Guatemala 5 Volcano Challenge.