Lake Atitlán
Exploring Guatemalan villages around the lake
It is one of the most popular trips tourists like to do when in Guatemala and that is for a good reason. Lake Atitlán is a beautiful mountain lake surrounded by volcanic landscapes that offers plenty of outdoor activities as well as some Guatemalan traditions.
How to get to Lake Atitlán
Charlie did the trip from Antigua and together with some fellow digital nomads, they had a shuttle to Panajachel, usually referred to as “Pana”. It took nearly 3 hours and it is a winding road. It is worth it though as you pass by a few view points before you reach the lake. From Pana you can take a boat, the so-called lanchas to any village around the lake. If you have your accommodation booked, they can tell you the name of the dock that you need to get to. Simply let the captain know and they will get you there.
Accommodation around Lake Atitlán
You can find all kinds of accommodation around the lake from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Charlie and the others had booked an AirBnB. It was a giant villa with multiple terraces and a pool. Their landlady cooked them food the first evening and offered a Tortilla-making workshop.
The villages around the lake: San Juan and San Marcos
On the Saturday, the group took a boat to the village of San Juan. It is a colourful place with lots of opportunities for souvenir shopping and quirky little restaurants and cafes. From the dock you have the option to take a Tuktuk up the hill, although you might prefer a stroll along the market stalls and shops.
On the Sunday, they took a boat to San Marcos. The narrow road that leads up from the dock is called “hippie alley” for a reason. You can find all kinds of spiritual experiences, workshops and yoga retreats advertised there. One popular retreat centre and accommodation in San Marcos is Eagle’s Nest. As the name suggests, it is in a high spot on the mountain. You can walk up there, however a Tuktuk is advised in this case. Charlie and the others went there for lunch and to enjoy the views over the lake.
In San Marcos too is a nature reserve, Reserva Natural Cerro Tzankujil, by the waterfront. It is probably the best place if you want to go for a swim in Lake Atitlán.
Activities around Lake Atitlán
Being close to the mountains and the lake, there are plenty of hiking opportunities as well as paddleboarding and kayaking. On windy days, the lake can get quite choppy and you want to take this into account before hiring a paddleboard or kayak.
Charlie and the others also participated in a weaving workshop in San Juan where they learned the ancient technique and the secrets behind the colourful tissues and clothing that you see everywhere in Guatemala.
