Lago Atitlan


Lago Atitlan is located in the south of Guatemala. You can reach the lake in two ways:

  • The first option is by taking a bus from Guatemala City. (See Guatemala chapter on the previous page)

    When you arrive in Guatemala City you best can take a taxi to drop you off at the public bus stop to Panachachel. The taxi should charge you approximately Q 25.

    The bus to Panachachel takes 4 hours and costs Q 20.

  • The second option is to go to Lago Atitlan (Panachachel) from Antigua. You can either take a tourist direct shuttle for $ 10 (all travel agencies sell them) or you can do the 4 hour trip by chicken buses for approximately Q 30. These buses leave every 15 minutes from the market in Antigua.
   
 
  San Pedro/San Marcos

A place that is very popular among backpackers is San Pedro. It`s a laid back village right at the footh of the volcano. Besides the cheap bars and restaurants at the water one can take a nice canoo or a horsebackriding tour to a nearby beach!

To reach San Pedro you have to take a public boat from Panachachel. These charge Q 20 per person.

Another popular relaxed place is San Marcos, the spiritual center of Guatemala. Holistic centers, meditation centers, reiky, (water) massages and yoga are offered all around the small little village.

 
The location is right at the lake with a beautifull view: Locals fishing in little canoos with the two impressive volcanoes rising up behind them. In the distance one can even see lava burst out of the active volcano Fuego. San Marcos has one nice sandy beach and a great spot to jump from high rocks into the water.

The best Hotels/Hostels around Lago Atitlan:

San Pedro:


  • Hotel Jacharik
  • Casa Elena
  • Zoola
  

Panachachel:

  • Hospedaje Garcia
  • Mario`s rooms
  • Hotel Casa Linda
  • Hospedaje Mi Chosita


San Marcos:

  • Las Piramides (Meditation Center)
  • Hotel La Quetzal