Lake Atitlán Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Atitlán2.jpg / Instituto Guatemalteco de Turismo -INGUAT-
Lake Atitlán
Lake Atitlán
Photo provided by Instituto Guatemalteco de Turismo -INGUAT-
Photo provided by GT09032425.jpg / Instituto Guatemalteco de Turismo -INGUAT-


Mountainous treks, artistic pursuits and scuba diving; the towns, villages and volcanoes that surround this picturesque lake in Guatemala's highlands offer adventure and culture.

Visit the Lake Atitlán area to explore indigenous villages, trek through volcanic highlands and dive, kayak or swim in Central America’s deepest lake.

The volcano-ringed Lake Atitlán is approximately 12 miles (19 kilometers) long and 6 miles (10 kilometers) wide and has a maximum depth of more than 1,000 feet (305 meters). Along its shoreline are several towns and villages where you can learn about Mayan culture.

Many visitors start their vacation in San Pedro La Laguna, a good base from which to explore the mountains surrounding the lake. In the main part of this town you will find plenty of restaurants, cafés, bars and hotels. Discover a traditional vibe in the old quarter, where you can see locals dressed in indigenous outfits that evolved over the centuries. For spectacular views over the lake, climb the volcano that gives the town its name.

Panajachel is the busiest and most developed town around Lake Atitlán. Browse handicraft markets, sightsee historic buildings and go to the nature reserve for exotic plants and wildlife.

Develop further insight into Mayan culture and the local way of life at Santiago Atitlán. The lakeside town is the capital of the Tzutujil Maya Nation and has a large population of indigenous Mayans. Learn about local arts and culture by attending a weaving or painting class.

Go to San Juan La Laguna for the Tz’utujil murals that depict the Tz'utujil Mayan creation legend.

Adventurous types will enjoy a trip to Santa Cruz La Laguna. The village can only be accessed on foot or by boat, and is home to Lake Atitlán’s main diving school. Venture down into the underwater world to see crabs, freshwater fish and volcanic areas on the lake floor.

Lake Atitlán enjoys a warm climate throughout the year, with the rainy seasons lasting from May to October.

Reach the lake by bus from Guatemala City, Antigua and Xela. If you are driving from the capital city, your route will take you along the Pan-American Highway. A pleasant and scenic way to get around the lakeside communities is by taxi boat.

Tours & day trips

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Private & custom tours

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Water activities

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Popular places to visit


Top Lake Atitlán Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Hotel y Cafe La Casa del Mundo

Hotel y Cafe La Casa del Mundo

3 out of 5
El Jaibalito, Santa Cruz La Laguna, Solola
Hotel y Cafe La Casa del Mundo
Porta Hotel del Lago

Porta Hotel del Lago

3.5 out of 5
2a Avenida 06-17 Zona 2, Panajachel, Solola
Porta Hotel del Lago
Art & Coffee

Art & Coffee

4 out of 5
Bajada Muelle, 00001, Santa Cruz La Laguna, Sololá
Art & Coffee
Hotel Atitlán

Hotel Atitlán

3.5 out of 5
Finca San Buenaventura, Panajachel, Solola
Hotel Atitlán
Hotel Isla Verde

Hotel Isla Verde

3 out of 5
Zona 0 sector Paskrabal, Santa Cruz La Laguna, Solola
Hotel Isla Verde
Kula Maya Boutique Hotel & Spa

Kula Maya Boutique Hotel & Spa

3 out of 5
San Marcos La Laguna Sololá, Barrio 3, Chinimaya, a par del 2do Muelle de Vida, San Marcos La Laguna, Sololá
Kula Maya Boutique Hotel & Spa
Posada de Don Rodrigo Panajachel

Posada de Don Rodrigo Panajachel

3.5 out of 5
Final de la Calle Santander, Panajachel, Solola
Posada de Don Rodrigo Panajachel
Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort & Nature Reserve

Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort & Nature Reserve

4 out of 5
1 Tzantizotz, Lake Atitlan, Santa Cruz La Laguna, Solola
Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort & Nature Reserve
Hotel y Centro de Convenciones Jardines del Lago

Hotel y Centro de Convenciones Jardines del Lago

3 out of 5
Calle Monterrey, Panajachel, Solola
Hotel y Centro de Convenciones Jardines del Lago
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Atitlán

At Lake Atitlán, visitors can enjoy a range of activities like boating, kayaking, and shopping. Don't miss the vibrant event venues and special events that showcase local culture. For a relaxing experience, indulge in wellness activities or explore the region’s famous coffee tours, which offer a taste of the rich flavours unique to Guatemala. This stunning destination promises a memorable blend of adventure and serenity.

Shopping

The Panajachel Municipal Market, only 8.0km away, offers vibrant local crafts and souvenirs in a bustling atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, check out Chichi Market, located 29.0km away, for an authentic Guatemalan shopping experience filled with textiles and handicrafts.

Recreation

Indulge in a rejuvenating experience at Los Elementos Day Spa, located 6.4km from Lake Atitlán. Enjoy soothing body treatments in a serene atmosphere that promotes relaxation and wellness. Immerse yourself in the tranquil vibes and connect with nature for a truly restorative getaway.

Adventure

Experience the thrills of Xocomil Waterpark, located 45.1km from Lake Atitlán. With exciting slides and pools, it's perfect for families seeking adventure and fun. Enjoy a lively atmosphere while splashing about in this fantastic waterpark, making unforgettable memories with your family and friends.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lake Atitlán with a visit to the Municipal Theater, located 37.0km away. Enjoy a captivating performance in a venue that exudes culture and romance, perfect for a memorable night out with family or that special someone.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lake Atitlán

Lake Atitlán offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveller, from culture enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers. Explore stunning reserves and historical churches, while delving into the region's archaeology and anthropology. Don't miss the breathtaking views from Santiago Atitlán and along the shores, ensuring a memorable trip filled with vibrant city experiences and natural beauty.

  • Museo Tz'unun 'Ya: Explore the rich archaeological and anthropological heritage of the region at Museo Tz'unun 'Ya. Located a short drive from Lake Atitlán, this museum immerses visitors in the vibrant local culture through fascinating exhibits and artefacts.
  • Santiago Atitlán: Experience the lively atmosphere of Santiago Atitlán, a charming town known for its traditional markets and stunning lakeside views. Here, you can engage with the local community and enjoy authentic Guatemalan cuisine.
  • Cerro Tzankujil: For those seeking relaxation and adventure, Cerro Tzankujil offers breathtaking hikes and serene spots to unwind. This nature reserve showcases spectacular views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Atitlán

For a budget-friendly visit to Lake Atitlán, consider travelling between August and October for lower accommodation prices. Book your stay about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Wednesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to refine your search for eco-friendly hotels and package deals that combine accommodation with flights and activities. To save on transport, utilise local public transport options or explore the area on foot to fully enjoy the stunning scenery without spending a fortune.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Atitlán are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to May, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Lake Atitlán is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Atitlán is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Atitlán is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some dollars by combining your Lake Atitlán accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.