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Although I only had time to do Lake Atitlán as a day trip I am here to tell you that a day in Lake Atitlán is just not enough and totally worth it if you are considering travelling to Guatemala.
When I arrived at the shores of Lake Atitlán, I stood there for a full minute and said absolutely nothing. I was completely subdued by the beauty of it all. Naturally, you would think someone like me, who has been to many countries, would find these things repetitive, but no. I just stood in silence and had an overwhelming gasp at the view. It has to be the most breathtaking and the most beautiful lake I have ever seen in my entire life.
So, if Lake Atitlán is something your intresested in doing as a day trip. I am here to answer the pressing question, “Is it worth it?” Short answer: I’m sure you can say yes. Even if you are only going for one day, I would highly recommend going. This post is for anyone who is short on time when travelling and wants to explore Lake Atitlán as a day trip. Below is everything you need to know before you go with the exact tour I used, so you can easily book your day trips.
Related post: 6 Amazing Days Solo in Guatemala Itinerary: What to Do, Stay and Eat
Where Is Lake Atitlán?
Lake Atitlán is a volcanic crater lake in the highlands of Guatemala, sitting at around 1,562 metres above sea level and surrounded by three towering volcanoes: San Pedro, Tolimán and Atitlán. It is often described as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, and after seeing it myself, I genuinely could not argue with that.
The lake is not just stunning scenery, though; there are a number of Lake Atitlán towns to see, such as San Pedro, Panajachel, Santa Cruz, San Juan La Laguna, Guatemala and many towns dotted around the shore. All the towns own their own distinct identity, culture and energy.
How to Get to Lake Atitlán from Guatemala City?
So how does one get to Lake Atitlán from Guatemala City? The most popular base for visiting Lake Atitlán is Antigua, the capital of Guatemala; the two are roughly two and a half hours apart, depending on when you leave and the traffic.
- By shared shuttle: This is the most common option for tourists. Several companies run shuttles between Antigua and Panajachel (the main town on the lake’s shore), and it is relatively affordable. I would recommend booking in advance through companies like GuateGo or asking your hotel.
- By private transfer: If you prefer flexibility and comfort, a private driver or transfer can be arranged. Or you if you have a car, you can drive yourself.
- By tour: This is what I did, and given I was on a short trip and was in Guatemala solo, I felt like it was the easiest option for me to do as a one of the many day trips. The tour included transport, a boat, the stops, and a very knowledgeable guide. I booked the Lake Atitlán One Day Tour from Antigua through Viator, and it was sooo seamless. You can book the exact same one here.
What to Do at Lake Atitlán in One Day
I love day trips so I didn’t mind adding this as one. I visited four very different towns around the lake: Panajachel, San Pedro, Santiago Atitlán and San Juan La Laguna. Each Lake Atitlán town left me so happy that I even did a day trip in the first place.
Panajachel
Panajachel is the main hub and where most tours begin and end. It is the busiest and most touristy of the lakeside towns, but it is a great introduction to the lake. In Panajachel, you will find markets, restaurants, craft stalls and stunning views from the waterfront.
San Pedro La Laguna
San Pedro La Laguna has a different kind of energy, it is known as the backpacker hub with a more relaxed, creative vibe. Great coffee, art everywhere and if you had more time here, you could easily spend a full day just exploring.
Santiago Atitlán
This was one of my favourite stops. Santiago is one of the most traditionally Indigenous towns on the lake, home to the Tz’utujil Maya people. The textiles here are extraordinary, and the town square has a beautiful colonial church that dates back to the 16th century. There is also the fascinating local deity, Maximón, who is venerated in a home somewhere in the town that shifts location each year.
San Juan La Laguna
San Juan La Laguna is the most colourful town of all. The streets are painted with murals, women’s cooperatives sell handmade textiles dyed with natural pigments, and the whole place feels like an open-air gallery. You can also see the Bee nest here and try some fresh local bunnies. If you have any time to browse, buy your souvenirs here. Everything is made locally, and the quality is exceptional.
How Long Do You Need at Lake Atitlán?
Honestly, one full day is enough to get a feel for the lake and visit two to four towns. But if you can stay overnight, I would highly recommend it also. Waking up in Lake Atitlán, if I had more time, would have been lovely. I think at least a night or two in Panajachel or San Marcos La Laguna would have really transformed the trip for me.
For a day trip from Antigua, expect to leave early (most tours depart around 5 am) and arrive back in the evening around 6 or 7 pm. It is a full day but absolutely worth it.
How Much Does it Costs To Go To Lake Atitlán?
If you are booking a guided day tour from Antigua, expect to pay £70 ($98 dollars) depending on the operator and what is included. My tour included pick up at 5.30 am in the morning and drop off around 6 pm ish, breakfast, boat transfers between the towns, as well as a helpful, lovely tour guide. It is worth noting that others may require you to pay for the lancha (water taxi) separately.
When you are on the ground, budget for:
- Boat rides between towns: A few US dollars per journey
- Entrance fees: Some sites charge a small fee, like to get a small taxi up to the hand, and for some museums, you may need to pay.
- Food and drinks: While veryy affordable, you will only get breakfast as part of this tour and will need a solid lunch at a lakeside restaurant, which will you cost you around £8 ($510 USD)
- Souvenirs: Set a budget before you hit San Juan La Laguna, because you will want to buy something I bought s bag and some honey. There are lots of markets there and it will be so worth it.
In terms of overall spend, Lake Atitlán is genuinely affordable. I barely touched my cash for the day.
Practical Tips for Your Lake Atitlán Day Trip
- Bring layers. You will be picked up very early so it will still be cold, and the highlands can be surprisingly cool in the morning even if Antigua felt warm during the day. The lake also sits at altitude and the breeze on the boat is refreshing but at times chilly.
- Wear comfortable shoes. The towns are walkable but uneven in places. Trainers or flat shoes work perfectly for this type of trip.
- Take cash. Cards are not widely accepted in the smaller towns and market stalls. Have some Guatemalan quetzals on you. You can withdraw at ATMs in Antigua or Panajachel.
- Go with a guide. Especially if this is your first time in Guatemala. The context and stories you get from a local guide transform the experience from sightseeing to understanding. You can book here.
- Book travel insurance. I always travel with SafetyWing whenever I travel. It gives you peace of mind without breaking the bank.
Where to Stay If You Spend the Night
If you decide to extend your trip (which I highly recommend), Panajachel has the widest range of accommodation from budget hostels to boutique hotels. Lush Atitlán is one of the most talked-about hotels on the lake. San Marcos La Laguna is also great for a quieter, retreat-style stay. I have also heard wonderful things about staying in Santa Cruz La Laguna for a more off-the-beaten-path feel. Below is a map you can book hotels through that are all around the various different Lake Atitlán towns:
Is Lake Atitlán Worth It?
I think by now that you already know my answer, but let me say it clearly for the people at the back.
Lake Atitlán is one of those rare places that actually exceeds the hype. The combination of volcanic scenery, deep Mayan culture, colourful towns and extraordinary local craftsmanship make it a perfect day trip for anyone going to Guatemala solo. Even if you are in Guatemala for just six days like I was, Lake Atitlán deserves one of those days completely.
Ready to book? You can book the exact same Lake Atitlán day tour I did right here, and if you need travel insurance sorted before you go, I use and recommend SafetyWing.
Have you visited Lake Atitlán? Are you planning a trip to Guatemala? Drop your questions or experiences in the comments below I would love to hear from you.
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Debs, MBV x
