Exploring Lake Atitlán

What You Need to Know: Lake Atitlán isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience.

But understanding its layout and villages can make or break your visit.

Let’s start with Panajachel (Pana) — the main gateway to the lake. It’s where most shuttles and buses arrive and where you’ll catch boats (lanchas) to the villages. From Pana, I love heading to San Antonio Palopó, especially for its gorgeous ceramics.

It’s a quieter village with authentic local crafts and stunning lake views.

Many visitors assume roads are circling the lake — and technically, there are — but trust me: boats are the best way to travel. Quick, scenic, and efficient, lanchas are how locals and travelers move between the villages.

Exploring Lake Atitlán, the villages around the lake have their flavor:

Santa Cruz is perched above the lake and popular with expats. It has resorts, retreats, and some of the best views. For younger travelers, Free Cerveza is a fun stop — part hostel, part adventure basecamp.

San Juan La Laguna is currently the most popular tourist village, and it’s easy to see why. But here’s the catch: when you step off the boat, you’re greeted by hundreds of vendors lining the hill. It can feel overwhelming.
The real Mayan artisans? They’re deeper in the village, not up the hill. Look for the weaving cooperatives and workshops, not the vape shop (yes, there’s one now).

Santiago Atitlán was the region’s main hub before tourism shifted north. I still love it for its deep history, connection to Maximón, and its strong cultural roots.

San Marcos has changed. Once known for its peaceful energy and local presence, it’s now filled with wellness offerings that feel more like a yoga-themed Airbnb startup than a village. Many locals have moved out, replaced by expats offering “healing” sessions after taking a course or two.

San Pedro is often seen as the backpacker party hub, but it’s grown up a bit. It still has its lively vibe, yet it feels much safer and more grounded than the chaos San Marcos has become.

Atitlán is layered, diverse, and always shifting. Come with curiosity — but also with respect. The real heart of the lake isn’t in the shops or on Instagram — it’s in the people who’ve lived here for generations.

For a visual representation, you can refer to the map provided by Lake Atitlán Tours, which includes these villages and more:

Guatemala Tours & Travel Services

Exploring Lake Atitlán

Lake Atitlán Maps Including Villages

This map offers a comprehensive view of the lake’s layout, helping you plan your visit and navigate between the villages effectively.