Are you wondering what things to do in Lake Atitlan?
For anyone coming to Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, you might be struck by how many things you have to see.
In this quick guide, I’ll break down some truly excellent ways to spend your day or days here.
Lake Atitlan is one place in Guatemala that will make you fall in love with backpacking. I arrived here after spending two weeks in Antigua.
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Things to do in Lake Atitlan
It’s home to the deepest lake in Central America and surrounded by beautiful villages and renowned as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world; situated at an altitude of 1,560 meters.
Is Lake Atitlan worth visiting?
This beautiful lake is surrounded by a panoramic view of volcanoes and is one of the best areas to visit and explore in Guatemala.
Lake Atitlan is known for its several towns that border the lake, each with its own unique vibe. San Marcos, San Pedro, and Santa Cruz are some of the best to explore in the area.
It’s also a great area to relax and take part in yoga retreats or to learn Spanish, where you can boat-hop to different banks during the day to take part in these different activities!
Things to do in Lake Atitlan
It is said that Lake Atitlan is Guatemala’s most important national and international tourist attraction.
Its surrounding villages boast an interesting combination of scenic beauty, a chilled atmosphere, and easy access to Mayan culture.
Three Mayan Villages Tour
A big part of Guatemalan history stems from their incredible Mayan cultural ancestry.
You can take the three Mayan Villages tour which will whisk you to three towns around Lake Atitlan to about the local area.
This is a good tour to take on if you’re looking to learn more and really integrate yourself into the local area with the help of a local guide.
Also, a good way to help you get some amazing photos. You’ll easily find some of the best photos to take in Lake Atitlan here.
San Marcos
If you really want to get away from the hustle and bustle, then visiting San Marcos is a must.
A trip to San Marcos La Laguna is a good idea, but I recommend that you do so with a tour guide.
This can make it a bit easier for you to take in all of the sights that you might have otherwise missed.
The friendly and endearing nature of Lake Atitlan means that a trip around San Marcos is sure to leave you with many good photo opportunities. What, will you look to snap first in San Marcos?
Chichi Market
A trip through the Chichi Market and Lake Atitlan at once will give you some truly amazing education and insight into the local area.
You can take a private tour that gives you real immersion in the Mayan culture allowing you to explore things at your own pace and comfort.
Definitely a good choice for anyone short on time here and looking to find an easy means of enjoying the local area and its’ various sights.
After visiting for the second time, I realized going without a tour often means making sure you miss some hidden gems.
Panajachel
The truly beautiful town of Panajachel is a fine choice of place to come and visit for anyone visiting in the Lake Atitlan, Guatemala region.
Just like Antigua if you visit, here you’ll get the chance to meet some very interesting people here, as it’s a major part of the local regions.
You’ll get some epic shots of the Guatemalan highlands from here. Create some great memories from your trip whilst get some special shots of the local lifestyle.
Learn Spanish
With a trip to the San Pedro Spanish School, you can become quite comfortable speaking Spanish in a short space of time.
Guatemala is one of the cheapest countries to learn Spanish so if you visit, you should get an education that should have a lasting impact.
The Spanish that you will learn here will stand you in good stead for the rest of your journey, so keep that in mind.
Especially if you’re heading down to Nicaragua or even further afield!
Definitely one of the best things to do in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala if you want more than a tourist trap. Meaning, this will also give you another insight into the lifestyle here and an opportunity to interact with locals.
- Best Hostels in Antigua
- Backpacking Guatemala Guide
- Best Things to do in Guatemala
- Central America Guide
Where to Stay in
There is an abundance of great hostels in Lake Atitlan to visit. When staying in Latin America, I like to live with families, and the best way to achieve this is through a Spanish school or Airbnb.
I use it to find the best accommodation I can for my budget. It’s a smart way to travel if you want an authentic living experience.
3 reasons why I use AirBnb in Guatemala.
- To get to know local people
- To gain an authentic experience of living
- To have private space to think/work
This is one of the more interesting places to visit in Guatemala. If you use hostels, here are three reasons to use hostels in Lake Atitlán.
Hostels are a good choice for connecting with other travelers.
- Connect with other travelers
- Look for local activities that are unique to tourists
- To practice living on a budget
If you are doing solo travel in Guatemala, I highly recommend using all three methods for the most rewarding + authentic experience while traveling in Guatemala and the rest of Latin America.
Where to Eat in Lake Atitlán
No matter who you are or where you’re from, you’ll find a taste to suit your liking around Lake Atitlán.
Here are 3 places I’ve eaten and plan to eat at again:
- Cafe Sabor Cruceno: Calle Principal Santa Cruz La Laguna
- Street Food: Found on/off most streets
- Las Lagartijas: 14, Santiago Atitlán
Food can be very cheap and delicious around the lake. The trick is to find the few places that offer excellent food at local prices. I will add more places to this guide as I try them.
💡Smart Travel Tip
If you eat a plant-based diet and think that it’s impossible to maintain that while in Guatemala, think again. Restaurants like Las Lagartijas will go out of their way to accommodate you.
There are many food options at Lake Atitlan, and you’ll find an abundance of restaurants to try, no matter what your budget is.
Many restaurants are located in unique spots that allow you to see a view of the lake while you’re dining.
Lake Atitlan Travel Tips
See these travel tips for Lake Atitlan to ensure you have the best stay whether you’re on vacation, backpacking, or traveling with friends.
⤵️ Dan’s Travel Tips For Lake Atitlan:
- Carrying a reusable water bottle or LifeStraw is a must. Plastic in Atitlan is banned and you can get filtered water in many places.
- Do a Kayak tour here to be able to enjoy the lake in a different way.
- Visit the waterfalls near San Marcos. Just bring the basic things and join a group of travelers.
- Be sure to swim in the lake, it´s safe. Just find a good spot, stay off the boats, and check if there are rocks. I recommend staying a night in Pasajcap and relaxed on the private pier.
- In general, Lake Atitlan and Guatemala is safe for travelers. But it’s important to take usual precautions such as don’t walk alone at night, hide valuables in your accommodation, don’t wear flashy jewelry, etc.
- Be careful when ordering vegetables in restaurants such as lettuce. There is always a risk of contamination and you don’t want to be ill.
- There’re amazing hikes such as Volcán de San Pedro and San Marcos to Santa Cruz. Joining a group is mandatory for safety and not getting lost. Don’t carry valuables, pack a good pair of minimalist hiking shoes or boots, a hat, water and you should be good to go.
- Practice Spanish! Locals speak Mayan dialects (and Spanish), the best way to have a Spanish conversation is to strike up a conversation.
- The most chilled vibes are in San Marcos. Most of the Backpackers love this location. Nevertheless, try it for yourself.
- Keep cash and small bills! Credit cards are accepted in some restaurants and most hotels. You can find ATMs but don’t rely on that.
Travel Insurance for Lake Atitlan
Having adequate travel insurance is crucial whilst backpacking in Guatemala. Especially if you’re moving around a lot.
I always recommend backpackers and travelers (no matter who you are) use World Nomads Insurance for fully comprehensive cover.
If you are due to travel soon, you can get a Get A Free Quote by clicking the link or the image above and filling out your details – that way you’ll get instant cover from the exact date that you choose.
On many occasions World Nomads has provided me with reliable insurance cover for travel in Latin America and the rest of the world.
Things to do in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Visiting the villages around Lake Atitlan is one of the best things to do in Guatemala. You’ll fall in love with the landscapes.
With so much to do and so little time to think about it, you should try and fit in all of the above things to do in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala.
It will give you a much greater chance of enjoying spending time around this amazing location!
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