We had no idea what we were in for when we landed in Guatemala for the very first stop of our around-the-world trip. At the time we had just sold all of our things and were living out of too many suitcases. Chasing a dream of slow travel and digital nomad life, we ended up at a place that completely redefined what travel could feel like. That place was Lake Atitlán. Surrounded by volcanoes and dotted with boat-only-access towns, this highland lake became one of our favorite spots on Earth.
In this guide, we’re sharing the 5 must-visit towns around Lake Atitlán, how to get around, where to stay, and what made this place so unforgettable (scorpions and firecrackers included for us… may or may not be in store for you).
Why Visit Lake Atitlán?
Lake Atitlán isn’t just another pretty destination, it’s the kind of place that quietly imprints itself on your travel story. It’s nestled in the Guatemalan highlands and boasts not 1… not 2… but 3 volcanos. This crater lake is unlike anywhere we’ve ever been.
Here’s why Lake Atitlan absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary:
A Natural Lake Surrounded by Volcanoes
From nearly every village around the lake, you’re met with incredible views of volcanoes rising dramatically from the water’s edge…
🌋Volcán Atitlán (active)
🌋 Volcán San Pedro (stratovolcano)
🌋Volcán Tolimán (probably active ??? Mother Nature isn’t giving us any hints)
The scenery shifts throughout the day, giving you endless reasons to just sit still and stare.
It felt like we were looking out onto the ocean with this massive lake, it spans about 50 square miles and is 341 deep, which makes it the deepest lake in Central America. It even has strong undercurrents to be mindful of.
Culture Rich Mayan Villages
Lake Atitlán is home to more than a dozen towns and villages, many of which still hold strong ties to their Mayan roots. Each town has its own distinct vibe and traditions, we’ll get into this in depth shortly.
The blend of ancient culture and daily lake life makes exploring each village feel like stepping into a new world.
A Unique Digital Nomad Destination
It may not be the first place you think of for remote work, but it should be. Lake Atitlán has surprisingly decent Wi-Fi… though it did take us over 48 hours to upload a video in 2017, Zoom meetings worked just fine, I am thinking the speed has gone up since then.
There are plenty of quiet cafes and eco-lodges, and a growing community of long-term travelers and remote workers.
For us, this was our first real taste of the digital nomad lifestyle, and it totally hooked us. Waking up to volcano views, working from the patio with a slight lake-kissed breeze, and hopping in a boat to a new town for lunch? Sign us up, again and again.
Budget-Friendly Long Stays
Your money can go far here.
Local food is inexpensive and delicious (please do yourself a favor and get homemade tamales at the market in Panajachel).
Accommodations range from affordable hostels to lakeview villas, and boat transport between towns costs just a couple of dollars.
How to Get to Lake Atitlán
Getting to Lake Atitlán takes a little effort, but trust us… it’s absolutely worth it. The lake isn’t served by any major airports directly, so getting there involves a bit of overland travel. It sounds complex, but you can also set it all up in advance to ease your travel anxiety.
The closest major airport is La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. Most international travelers land here, and it’s about a 3-4 hour drive from the lake depending on traffic and weather.
Most people opt to not stay in Guatemala City. We headed straight out to Antigua and then Lake Atitlan.
When you’re ready to head to the lake, here’s how you get there…
Our Recommendation: A Shuttle to Panajachel
Panajachel is the main gateway town to Lake Atitlán and the easiest place to start your visit.
Here are your options to take from most expensive to least expensive:
💰💰💰 A private transfer – more comfortable for couples or groups, ~$90–$120 USD
💰💰 A shared tourist shuttle – most convenient, ~$25–$35 USD per person. Some companies even offer direct lakefront drop-offs if you’ve pre-booked accommodation in one of the quieter towns.
💰Public chicken buses – ultra-budget but chaotic and time-consuming… This is what we took, I’m not sure if our 30 something-selves would agree with our 20 something-selves on this decision now but let’s talk about it…
🐔 Wait… What’s a Chicken Bus?
If you spend any time traveling through Guatemala (or much of Central America), you’ll inevitably hear the term “chicken bus.” These are colorful, repurposed U.S. school buses… often painted in wild colors, covered in chrome, and blasting music.
They’re the local way to get around, and yes, they’re called chicken buses because you might literally find chickens (or anything else) on board.
They’re cheap (like $1–$3 USD for long distances) and a cultural experience in themselves, but be prepared: they’re loud, packed, and don’t exactly follow strict schedules.
Ours randomly stopped for 2-3 hours on the side of the road for reasons unknown and asked us if we needed a bathroom break. Megan was a hard no on using the restroom on the side of a highway in the middle of Guatemala.
While adventurous travelers love them for the authenticity, they can be overwhelming for first-time visitors or those with luggage. If you’re traveling with gear or prefer a smoother ride, a shuttle is probably your best bet.
💡Bonus Tip: Arrive Before Dark The road to Lake Atitlán is mountainous, winding, and gets foggy after sunset. If possible, plan your arrival during daylight hours. Not only will you feel safer, but you’ll also catch your first glimpse of the lake as you descend, and trust us, that first view is magic.
🚤 Boat Taxi – La Lanchas
Once you arrive to the main city of Panajachel, the real fun begins… unless you started on a chicken bus like us… in which case, the first lake views begin to settle the chaos.
The primary mode of transportation to the towns of Lake Atitlan is boat taxi! The place you are staying might have instructions for you or even a boat pick up. Otherwise, the main thing you want to know is that there are public and private boat taxis, which are called Lanchas.
Public Boat Taxis:
- Fares: Approximately $1.30 to $4 USD, depending on the distance
- Departure: About every 20 – 30 minutes, you inform the staff at the dock where you need to go and the boat will make multiple stops depending on how many people are on your boat
- Payment: Cash on board
In a chaotic chicken bus filled haze, we were convinced onto a private boat taxi for way more money than we wanted to pay for our first boat ride through Lake Atitlan. Don’t make the same mistake we did.
Just say, “Lancha?” while pointing to the dock or showing the name of the town on your phone or map.
You could also say –
¿Cuánto cuesta la lancha para [destination]?
How much is the boat to [destination]?
And if they quote you more than $4 USD, you know you’re on the wrong boat.
Private Boat Taxis:
- Direct service
- Cost will vary depending on your destination
- Book in advance on a site like Atitlan Living
If you’re staying there for a month or longer like we did, you will become very familiar with the boat taxis as you wave them down for your normal outings.
💡 On Tipping – Tipping the boat drivers is only expected if you are taking a private boat taxi or if a boat driver helps you with heavy luggage.
The 5 Must-Visit Towns Around Lake Atitlán (and where to stay)
One of the most unique things about Lake Atitlán is how each town around the lake has its own vibe. It’s like micro cultures all in one place. There are 11 main villages, but 5 of those are your key places you could call home.
These five towns are the most popular, and they all offer something totally different.
1. Panajachel – The Gateway to the Lake
If you’re arriving at Lake Atitlán for the first time, you’re probably coming through Panajachel. It’s the largest and most developed town on the lake and acts as the main transportation hub.
The streets are buzzing, and the energy is high. This is where you’ll find ATMs, grocery stores, artisan stalls, and shuttle drop-offs. It’s the ideal place to stock up on essentials, or do some souvenir shopping before heading to a quieter town across the water.
If you’re staying for an extended period, chances are you’ll find yourself here a few times. Our gracious host, sent us grocery shopping with a local and it was one of our favorite experiences of the entire stay.
It can feel a bit chaotic, but that’s part of the charm. If you only have one or two days at the lake, Panajachel gives you a quick taste of it all.
You could opt to stay in Panajachel maybe at the start or end of your trip. Here are some recommended places to stay:
2. San Pedro – Backpacker Central
Are you the backpacker type of traveler, looking for community and maybe a little nightlife? Head to San Pedro La Laguna, the lake’s long-standing backpacker hotspot.
You’ll find cheap hostels, lively bars, and plenty of places to eat Western-friendly and Guatemalan food alike.
But San Pedro isn’t just about nightlife, it’s also known for its Spanish schools, making it a popular base for travelers who want to stay longer and learn the language.
There’s also a surprising number of cozy cafés and coworking spots (made better by volcano views). If you’re traveling solo or looking to connect with a community, this is the place.
Where to stay in San Pedro:
💰💰 Mikaso Hotel
3. San Marcos – The Spiritual Escape
Ah, San Marcos La Laguna. This tiny town is the epicenter of Lake Atitlán’s spiritual and holistic scene. Think: meditation retreats, cacao ceremonies, reiki sessions, and daily yoga classes.
There’s an almost mystical energy here. Vegan cafés and raw chocolate shops dot the narrow walking paths, and the town feels more like a retreat center than a typical travel destination.
The mystic energy is amplified by the untouched nature walks. We got caught in a jungle rainstorm here, and it made it all the more magical.
If you’re into wellness, self-discovery, or simply want a quiet place to reset, San Marcos offers something grounding.
There’s also an EPIC swimming spot in San Marcos. One of the absolute highlights of our time at Lake Atitlán, and a core memory from San Marcos, was spending an afternoon at Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve.
This is a protected lakeside park and home to the iconic cliff-jumping platform known as “El Trampolín.”
The reserve is a beautifully maintained area that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just hanging out by the lake. You can walk there from the main part of town.
The star of the show? The 12-meter (40-foot) wooden platform jutting out over deep water, where brave swimmers line up to launch themselves into Lake Atitlán.
Standing at the edge of the platform is a little intimidating. The water below looks incredibly inviting, but that drop feels way higher once you’re up there. Still, we jumped (well, one of us did gracefully… one of us flailed), and it was totally worth it.
💡 Bonus Tips:
- Entrance Fee: Q20 (~$2.50 USD) for foreigners
- Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Bring: Water shoes or sandals with grip for rocky entry points, sunscreen, and a towel
The water is deep, so I’d say you want to be a confident swimmer for the jump.
Even if you skip the jump, there are plenty of calm entry points for a safe swim, plus little stone ledges where you can soak up the sun. It’s also one of the cleanest areas of the lake, thanks to its protected status.
This spot really captures the spirit of San Marcos: adventurous, beautiful, and just a bit magical.
Where to stay in San Marcos:
4. Jaibalito – Hidden and Rustic
Jaibalito is the kind of town you’d miss unless someone told you about it, which makes it all the more special. It’s only accessible by boat or on foot, and it’s the most untouched of the lake’s main villages. We walked here for a day and soaked in the charm of this untouched, non touristy village.
There’s no road traffic, very few tourists, and a laid-back pace that feels a world away from Panajachel.
It’s a great spot for travelers seeking solitude or a real local vibe. A handful of guesthouses and boutique lodges make it possible to stay a few nights in total peace.
We only walked there for a single day trip and enjoyed strolling through the streets, admiring the art, and feeling a little disconnected from the tourist pace.
No matter where you stay, do yourself a favor and walk the trails surrounding Lake Atitlan.
5. Santa Cruz – Volcano Views and Tranquility
This is where we stayed, and we’re still not over it. Santa Cruz La Laguna is a quiet, cliffside village with some of the best panoramic views on the lake.
There aren’t many shops or restaurants in the village itself, so many people stay in lodges nestled along the hillside and dine at their hotels or walk to neighboring cafés via scenic cliff paths.
As far as things to do, this is the perfect launching point for epic jungle walks. What I can promise is that you’ll catch an amazing sunrise or sunset.
We loved how peaceful it was and how easy it was to jump in a boat to explore other towns during the day, then retreat back to our cozy little base.
We think it’s the perfect place to stay on the lake but maybe ideal for couples, digital nomads, or anyone looking to slow down and soak up the view.
💰💰💰 Atitlan Sunset Lodge (this is where we stayed, we got a deal to stay for a month)
Is It Safe to Swim in Lake Atitlán?
Lake Atitlán is a natural beauty, but like many bodies of water around the world, it has its environmental challenges. Yes, you can swim in Lake Atitlán, but there are a few things to know before diving in.
Want the Full Breakdown?
We wrote an entire post dedicated to this topic, including where to swim, what to avoid, and when the lake is safest. If you’re planning to take a dip, start there:
👉 Our Full Guide to Swimming Safely in Lake Atitlán
Life Around Lake Atitlan: The Good, the Weird, and the Wild
Life at Lake Atitlán isn’t just about stunning views and peaceful mornings, it’s a full-on experience. Staying for a month gave us a real taste of what it’s like to live in a lakeside village far from supermarkets, freeways, or Amazon Prime. Here’s a peek at what life was like on and off the water.
🛶 Grocery Boat Drop-Offs
Need groceries? Better check the boat schedule. In Santa Cruz, there was no corner store to run to and no road to drive. We had to either take a boat across the lake or wait for someone to deliver produce and supplies by boat. Picture a guy hopping off a lancha with a bag of avocados like it’s no big deal. It was wildly inconvenient… and oddly beautiful.
It forced us to plan ahead, shop with intention, and actually appreciate the food we had.
🕷 Wild Bugs and Local Quirks
We quickly learned that nature doesn’t knock here, it just moves in. Within the first few days, we had a scorpion in our bedroom and a spider so big it looked like it was paying rent.
Our host calmly told us, “Don’t worry, the scorpions are only poisonous if you’re allergic, and the spiders eat the smaller bugs.”
Oh—well, cool. Thanks?
It felt like we were fully immersed in the natural world. It was uncomfortable at times, but it was also part of what made it so memorable.
🎇 Birthday Firecrackers and Village Charm
Our host set off 1,000 firecrackers for someone’s birthday. In these villages, birthdays aren’t marked with candles… they’re celebrated with literal explosions.
It was loud, chaotic, and the most wholesome chaos you could imagine. Moments like this made the lake feel like a small town where everyone knows each other, and every little thing, no matter how strange, has a story behind it.
🧭 What Slow Traveling in Lake Atitlan Taught Us
Living here for a month taught us to slow down, let go of expectations, and embrace the unpredictable.
Things take longer? So what…
Plans get scrapped? Make new ones…
No access to your favorite snacks? Try the local ones.
There’s no rush around the lake, and once you settle into that rhythm, it kind of reprograms your entire system. It reminded us why we travel in the first place: to feel something different, to grow a little, and to collect stories you couldn’t make up if you tried.
Looking for more adventures in Guatemala?
Check these out!
