Questions? (888) 651-9785(888) 651-9785
Lake Atitlan (Lago de Atitlán) Tours
68 Reviews

With its glistening blue waters framed by a trio of volcanic peaks and a fringe of lush greenery, Lake Atitlán (Lago de Atitlán) is surely one of Guatemala’s most stunning natural wonders. The deepest lake in Central America lies in an ancient caldera amid the mountainous landscapes of the Guatemalan Highlands.
The Basics
Whether setting sail on a boat tour, exploring lakeside Maya villages, or hiking through Atitlán Natural Reserve, there are plenty of options for discovering Lake Atitlán. On the northeast shore, the lively village of Panajachel is the starting point for most visitors, but Lake Atitlán tours also run from Antigua and Guatemala City. In addition to taking in views of the beautiful lake, adventure tours offer a more active experience, including kayaking excursions, sunset bike tours, hiking, rock climbing, and even paragliding over the lake.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The easiest way to explore the lakeside villages is by boat, and local ferries run from Panajachel to most destinations.
- The only ATM is located in Panajachel, and most villages only accept local currency, so stock up before you head out.
- The main transport options around Lake Atitlán are small boats and tuk-tuks, so pack light as there’s not much space for heavy luggage.
- Swimming in the lake is possible at designated areas.
How to Get There
Lake Atitlán is a 3- to 4-hour drive from Guatemala City. Shuttle buses connect Panajachel with the city center and La Aurora International Airport.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit Lake Atitlán is during the summer season (November–April), but visiting in winter (May–October) offers cooler weather for hiking.
The Villages of Lake Atitlán
The liveliest place to stay is Panajachel, while tranquil San Marcos is known for its yoga resorts and laid-back atmosphere, and San Pedro is the party hub for backpackers and international travelers. To experience local Maya culture, head to San Juan, known for its traditional handicrafts; visit Santiago Atitlán to learn about Maya traditions; or browse the market stalls in Chichicastenango or Sololá. If you really want to escape the tourist trail, visit the tiny villages of Tzununa or Jaibalito.
Address: Lake Atitlan, Western Highlands, Guatemala
12 Tours and Activities to Experience Lake Atitlan (Lago de Atitlán)
Did you know?You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.
Learn more
Did you know?
You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.Learn more
Sort by:Featured

Indian Nose Peak and Lake Atitlan Sunrise Tour from Panajachel
Watch the sunrise light up Lake Atitlan and the Volcanic Ring of Fire from one of the highest points at Lake Atitlan: Indian Nose. After pickup from your Panajachel lodging and a 90-minute drive through the highlands, take an easy 30-minute hike to the summit of Indian Nose, followed by a trip to Sacred Hunters Cave. This tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel as well as all entrance fees and a professional guide.
…More
From
US$97.95
From
US$97.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Lake Atitlan: Mayan Ceremony at the Sacred Caves
Take a journey through the traditions of Mayan spirituality as you experience a 2-hour traditional fire-cleansing ceremony with a guide in the Sacred Caves of Lake Atitlan. Step inside these mystical caves, used by local Mayans for many centuries, to observe the performance of this holy and powerful ritual by a local shaman. Listen as your guide explains the history and traditions behind the ritual and provides insight into the Mayan calendar system. Before you leave, you’ll have time to admire the gorgeous views of the lake down below.
…More
From
US$56.99
From
US$56.99

Hike Around Lake Atitlan
Explore the small town village life and gorgeous scenery of Lake Atitlan during this 5-hour hiking excursion from Santa Cruz la Laguna to San Marcos. During the course of your trip you’ll observe local villagers tending to coffee and corn crops in area farm fields and pass through small Mayan hamlets like San Marcos, Tzununná and Jaibalito. Best of all your hike offers a chance to enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Lake Atitlan and its nearby volcanoes. This Lake Atitlan hiking adventure also covers one-way transfer to the start point, hotel pickup, guide and entrance fees.
…More
From
US$51.29
From
US$51.29

Kayak and Hike Adventure Tour from Panajachel in Guatemala
Enjoy a true Guatemalan adventure during this full-day or half-day trip hiking and kayaking along the shores of Lake Atitlan. Explore the rich indigenous traditions of local villages on hikes to observe farmers tending to their coffee crops. You’ll also paddle the waters of the lake, watching fishermen ply the waters on hand-hewn boats, and spot the exotic array of plant and animal life that calls Lake Atitlan home. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even go for a cliff jump. Your Guatemala adventure covers all activities, a guide and round-trip hotel transport from Panjachel and Santa Cruz.
…More
From
US$65.00
From
US$65.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Lake Atitlan Lower Mayan Trail Hiking Tour from Panajachel
Tread where few tourists ever set foot on this 4-hour hiking tour amidst the stunning scenery and idyllic Mayan villages of the Lower Mayan Trail. Trace the same paths followed by the ancient Kaqchikel Mayans for centuries, passing by coffee and corn fields and the rugged, volcano-laden shoreline of Lake Atitlan. As you go, you’ll also immerse yourself in Mayan village life during stops in the hamlets of Tzununa, Jaibalito and Santa Cruz. This hiking trip also includes round-trip hotel transport from Panjachel.
…More
From
US$51.29
From
US$51.29
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Lake Atitlan and Authentic Market of Solola Tour
Travel from Panajachel to Solola where you'll visit colorful markets filled with the exquisite handmade textiles Guatemala is known for. Then meet a group of local women and learn the traditional art of weaving while you watch them at work. Next, you'll enjoy a savory meal of classic Guatemalan flavors before rounding out the day with panoramic views from San Jorge La Laguna.
…More
From
US$74.36
From
US$74.36
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Lake Atitlan: Santa Catarina and San Antonio Maya Tour from Panajachel
Immerse yourself in the ancient Mayan heritage and fascinating traditions of Guatemala during this 6-hour day trip to the villages of San Antonio and Santa Catarina. Explore the indigenous artisan traditions of the towns near Lake Atitlan as you tour local textile and craft cooperatives and then visit a ceramics studio. Then participate in Mayan rituals as you learn about the Protection Fire Ceremony and take part in an optional hike along the lake’s edge. Your trip also includes a guide and round-trip hotel transport from Panjachel and Santa Catarina.
…More
From
US$68.00
From
US$68.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Sunset Mountain Biking Tour on Lake Atitlán
Traveling by mountain bike is a challenging and adventurous way to visit parts of Lake Atitlan that are all too easily overlooked when visiting by boat or car. Follow your guide down rugged mountain paths en route to an epic sunset spot at the Mario Mendez Montenegro Mirador in Godinez—chances are, you’ll be the only people there.
…More
From
US$75.00
From
US$75.00

Get to know San Marcos, San Pablo, San Juan and San Pedro by bicycle
Este es un recorrido que empieza desde Panajachel donde en nuestra oficina iremos al embarcador para tomar un bote publico que nos llevará al pueblo de tzununa de ahí empieza nuestra aventura en bicicleta visitando los pueblos de tzununa, San Marcos, San Pablo, San Juan y San Pedro, en el recorrido en bicicleta se harán paradas donde usted podrá apreciar vistas panorámicas, también se visita a mujeres tejedoras, plantas medicinales, iglesia coloniales, y plantaciones de café.
El recorrido tiene un total de 7 millas por lo que el recorrido en bicicleta tiene una duración de 2 a 3 horas aproximadamente, el camino que inicia con tierra por aproximadamente 3 millas después con camino pavimentada, también hay subidas y bajadas de pequeños cerros por lo que se recomienda tener buena condición.
…More
From
US$66.67
From
US$66.67

Community Based Tourism
We are a travel agency that focuses on offering the best personalized service to our clients in organizing tours and cultural trips around Guatemala. In addition we want to promote interaction with local communities in order to create work opportunities and increase respect for the environment and local traditions and customs.
…More
From
US$1,538.47
From
US$1,538.47

Lake Atitlán, Santiago Village Day Trip by Boat from Panajachel
Visit the traditional village of Santiago Atitlan on a half-day tour from Panajachel. Travel with your guide by public boat to Santiago Atitlan for a walking tour of the village. Learn about the indigenous Mayan culture that remains strong in the region as you explore the vibrant community with your guide. Then soak in sweeping views of Lake Atitlan and its surroundings as you return to Panajachel by boat.
…More
From
US$42.00
From
US$42.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Stand Up Paddle Board or Kayak and Extreme Zipline Adventure from Panajachel
One of the most beautiful locations in all of Guatemala, Lake Atitlan is best explored outdoors. Start your day with a kayak or paddle board tour around the lake before hiking to a ziplining location on the lake’s rugged north shore. Choose from a scenic or extreme adventure as you soar past vistas of the lake, waterfalls, and volcanoes, completing your tour at the Nature Reserve.
…More
From
US$107.70
From
US$107.70
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Things to do near Panajachel
- Things to do in Western Highlands
- Things to do in San Pedro La Laguna
- Things to do in Quetzaltenango
- Things to do in Antigua
- Things to do in Guatemala City
- Things to do in Puerto Quetzal
- Things to do in San Salvador
- Things to do in San Luis Talpa
- Things to do in Flores
- Things to do in San Ignacio
- Things to do in San Pedro Sula
- Things to do in Placencia
- Things to do in Belize City
- Things to do in Central Highlands
- Things to do in Pacific Highlands