Lake Atitlan, Guatemala is known as the deepest lake in Central America and was formed by a supervolcanic eruption 84,000 years ago. The lake is situated in the Sierra Madre mountain range and is still home to many Guatemalans who keep ancient Mayan traditions alive.
Lake Atitlan is surrounded by various villages that each have their own vibe and culture to them. Boats travel between these villages from morning until around 6pm every day of the week so it is incredibly easy to take day trips from wherever your accommodation is!
NOTE: Around 4pm the waves on the lake get quite large and the boat journeys become very tedious, even frightening at times. Additionally, each village has a different time for “last boat” – be sure to ask the locals when the last trip is so you don’t get stuck in a village with no accommodation.
How To: Catch the Ferry
Catching the ferry is quite simple as they arrive and depart very regularly throughout the day – the main goal, though, is to avoid paying more than you need to! Although tourists will always be charged more for a trip than locals, below are some other scams that are easy to avoid:
When you arrive at the dock find an adult! There will be kids looking to help you, show you to your boat, or carry your luggage. These kids expect tips and it is a money saver to avoid getting their “help.” Find an adult boat driver, tell them where you are trying to go, and they will point you to the correct boat.
You will pay once you arrive at your destination. Trips are normally about Q20-25 so don’t let the driver overcharge you too much. If they seem determined to grossly overcharge you, simply hand over slightly more than Q25 and walk away – they will more than likely get on with their tasks and realize you aren’t folding.
Finally, pay the exact cash amount. Do not expect to receive change from the boat drivers. If you only have a Q50 bill, then that boat driver is going to take all Q50 of that without hesitation.
Panajachel
Panajachel is most likely where you will be dropped off when traveling from another part of Guatemala as it is the main port of Atitlan. This village is best known for its street markets and food as well as its many accommodation options. If you don’t feel like taking all of your belongings across the river, this is a great jumping off point for day trips!
My Recommendations:
- Selina Hostel
- Selina Beach Bar
- Street Markets and Fruit Stands
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is full of culture. The village is home to various options for cultural experiences and lessons like cooking, chocolate making, or artisan beading workshops. The area is very hilly as well so it is a good place to try riding a Tuk Tuk for the first time!
Santa Cruz is also home to one of the most popular hostels on Lake Atitlan, Free Cerveza. This hostel is extremely social with different activities going on every day of the week from sunrise paddle boarding to beer pong tournaments. They also have cheap “family dinners” each night to enjoy.
NOTE: Free Cerveza does NOT have a kitchen, and instead has a bar and restaurant attached.
My Recommendations
- Free Cerveza Hostel
- Atitlan Cooking & Chocolate Workshops
- Manos Cruceñas (beading lessons)
- Cafe Sabor Cruceño
- Holy Tortillas
San Marcos
San Marcos is a bit more hippy than any of the other villages. With artisan markets, holistic massage adverts, a nature reserve, and many vegetarian/vegan restaurants, it definitely gives off a more laid back and spiritual vibe.
The main attraction of San Marcos is the Cerro Tzanjukil Nature Reserve. Here you can wander around beautiful tropical flora, check out gorgeous outlooks and encounter various Mayan alters. For the adrenalin junkies, there is a 12 meter jump built off one of the cliff edges that is a popular bucket list item for many visitors.
My Recommendations:
- Cerro Tzanjukil Nature Reserve
- 12 Meter Trampolín
- Samsara’s Garden
- Street Markets
San Juan and San Pedro
San Juan and San Pedro are the more party villages of Lake Atitlan. We did not spend any time in San Juan, but the two towns are definitely good places to stay if you are seeking some late nights. The area additionally has a large Israeli population so there is no shortage of amazing Mediterranean restaurants.
NOTE: If you do want to party in San Juan or San Pedro, make sure you book accommodation there! The last ferry leaves from San Pedro around 6pm so if you are staying anywhere else on the lake you will not be able to stay past last boast.
My Recommendations:
- Mr. Mullet’s Party Hostel
- Wandering the Streets
- Sababa’s
Lake Atitlan is a beautiful must-see of Guatemala. The lake itself is absolutely stunning at any time of day while hopping around the villages is simply fun, educational, and unforgettable. Listed above are only the villages we made it to, however there are several others worth checking out if you are heading to Lago Atitlan soon (i.e. Santiago, San Lucas, or Santa Catarina).
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