With three stunning volcanoes rising out of its emerald surface, Lake Atitlán is a crater lake at a height of 5000 ft, located 144 km west of Guatemala City. The summits of the volcanoes mirror beautifully in the crystal-clear water is what gives this lake a touching beauty. It is also the best way to be introduced to indigenous culture in the highlands of Guatemala.
It is considered ¨the most beautiful lake in the world¨ by the famous novelist Aldous Huxley. It has a surface of 125 square kilometers and is surrounded by verdant hills, three towering volcanoes -Tolimán, Atitlán and San Pedro-, and the shoreline is dotted with small towns and villages, each with its own personality. Mayans have plied its shores for centuries and continue to wear traditional clothing and practice age-old Mayan customs today, particularly in towns such as Santiago Atitlán and Santa Catarina Palopó.
Panajachel is one of Atitlán’s main hubs and offers a comprehensive selection of hotels, restaurants, pharmacies, and shops. It also serves as a base for travelers looking to explore the lake’s other villages. Lanchas (small motorized boats) depart regularly for destinations like San Juan La Laguna, which is known for its hand-woven, naturally dyed textiles, and Santiago Atitlan where visitors can awaken their senses walking around the village market, the textile shops and the very unique Maximon shrine.
Private tours around Lake Atitlan
One village Boat Tour
“Atitlan’s highlights” (Full day)
The origin of the lake is an old crater which exploded and three volcanoes emerged from it. The three of them are inactive but make absolute beautiful sunsets.
The Lake tour starts at any of the hotels in Antigua or Guatemala City you may be staying. We make the scenic 2 hour drive to the town of Panajachel. We parked the car and and visit one of the following Mayan towns by boat.
Santiago: The population of Santiago is Tzutujil Maya and is mostly visited to see the catholic church which was founded over four centuries ago. Visitors can’t miss Maximon, who is a smoking and drinking Mayan-catholic deity who people pay a visit to ask for favors and miracles.
San Juan la Laguna: This town is rather clean and quiet compared to Santiago. It is famous for its textile natural dyes coops and art galleries. The street walls are painted with murals, which reflect every day life and traditions.
Two Villages Boat Tour
“Atitlan’s hiden escapades” (Full day)
The small villages around Lake Atitlan offer an extraordinary opportunity to come close and witness age-old Mayan costums today. Every town in the shores of the lake has its own personality and Mayan ethnic group.
The Lake tour starts at any of the hotels in Antigua or Guatemala City you may be staying. We make the scenic 2 hour drive to the town of Panajachel. We parked the car and and visit TWO of the following Mayan towns by boat.
Santiago Atitlan: Visit the Tzutujil Maya population town, mostly visited to see the catholic church., bustling market and textile workshops. Visitors can’t miss Maximon, who is a smoking and drinking Mayan-catholic deity who people pay a visit to ask for favors and miracles.
San Juan la Laguna: This town is rather clean and quiet compared to Santiago. It is famous for its textile natural dyes coops and art galleries. The street walls are painted with murals, which reflect every day life and traditions.
San Antonio Palopo, the men and women dress in beautidul tradicional costumes, the men in red woven shirts and short woolen skirts. They master the art of traditional pottery.
Runs everyday 7:00 am with previous reservation
* Includes: Land Transportation, bilingual tour guide, lunch and boat transfer to two of the villages, non alcoholic drinks.
*Excludes: alcoholic beverages, personal expenses, tips to drivers and guides.
Price p/p: contact us for current prices