Lake Atitlan Holidays

A huge body of deep blue water that stretches into the distance and takes at least half an hour to cross by motorboat, Lake Atitlan has an amazing setting, ringed by imposing volcanoes. Lake Atitlan holidays are fabulous for hiking, mountain biking and kayaking, or just relaxing in one of the elegant hotels around the lake's shoreline, and the region also has a strong spiritual feel, too. To appreciate Guatemala's colourful indigenous population, take a boat trip to visit the villages that hug the lakeshore, such as Santiago, Santa Catarina and San Antonio. Mayan customs and beliefs are strongly adhered to in these tiny remote communities, whose residents proudly wear traditional dress that distinguishes each town from the next.

Lake Atitlan holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Lake Atitlan Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday

What to do on a Lake Atitlan Holiday?

The amphitheatre of looming volcanoes that surround this glassy lake create the perfect setting for a Guatemalan holiday. Lake Atitlan holidays can be whatever you want them to be, whether that is a relaxing yoga retreat, an epic hiking adventure or a foodie’s fantasy trip, there is so much on the shores of this lake to discover. Drinking in the views on a boat trip is a must. Venture out onto the deep blue waters of the volcanic crater to explore the quaint multi-coloured villages that surround the lake. Each has their own character and identity and merge perfectly with the natural beauty that surrounds them. If a motorised boat isn’t your thing, hire a couple of canoes for the day and explore at your own pace. The area is brimming with all kinds of adrenaline activities including trekking through the undergrowth to San Pedro’s fiery peak, testing your cycling legs on the surrounding slopes and even paragliding for the best bird’s-eye-view. Once your body is suitably tired, head to the San Pedro thermal baths to soothe your aching muscles or head to San Juan where you can try your hand at traditional weaving before buying some of the brilliantly bright Mayan textiles to take home.


Lake Atitlan Holidays Top Tip:

We recommend taking a helicopter from Antigua to Lake Atitlan, which avoids the long drive and allows for incredible aerial views of the Mayan site of Iximche, and the volcanoes surrounding the lake.

Best places to go in Guatemala



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