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Magical volcanic lake, beautiful scenery and tranquil highland life

Formed over 80,000 years ago by a violent volcanic eruption, Lake Atitlan is one of the world’s most beautiful lakes and both an incredibly tranquil and cultural place to relax for a couple of days.

Characterised by iridescent waters, imposing volcanoes whose fertile slopes support coffee and maize, this is also where the country’s Maya culture and customs are at their strongest. You can experience their resilient traditions and way of life in the colourful Maya villages around the lake such as Santa Catarina Palopo or San Antonio Palopo.

From the very easy going to the highly active, there are numerous ways to enjoy your time on the lake; kayaking, taking a ‘lancha’ (small boat) between villages, hiking volcanoes, bicycling, bird watching and horse riding.

We have also selected only the very best accommodation for your time here in this area of outstanding natural beauty.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our Lake Atitlán specialists

Hike through Santa Cruz La Laguna

Hike through Santa Cruz La Laguna, a small Kakchiquel village surrounded by jagged mountains.

Cook traditional Guatemalan dishes with a local chef

Work side-by-side with a local chef as you learn how to make some of Guatemala’s most traditional dishes.

Visit Comalapa's market

Enjoy a guided tour through Comalapa’s market, passing by local residents dressed in traditional textiles, for a glimpse into daily life in this region.

See backstrap weaving at a women's cooperative

Visit a women’s cooperative to see how traditional backstrap looms and all-natural dyes are used to make some of Guatemala’s finest textiles.

A word from one of our experts

Lake Atitlan is a magical destination. I recommend learning the secrets of dying yarn naturally from textile artists in the workshops of San Juan, before climbing into a kayak and drifting across the shimmering surface of Lake Atitlan, surveyed by the mighty form of the San Pedro volcano.

Charles Kronsten Senior Travel Designer

Why book with Jacada?

  • Personalised design

    We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

  • Authentic experiences

    Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

  • Responsible travel

    Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip Inspiration

Get inspired with our Lake Atitlan example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Lake Atitlan tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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When to visit

You can discover the natural beauty and historic ruins of Guatemala all year round, thanks to the Central American country’s generally pleasant climate. November to April is the best time to visit Guatemala as they are the dry months, but even during the wet season it doesn’t rain excessively.

Festivals

March, April, September, November

Turtle Nesting

June - December

Visit Tikal

November - August

When Is the Best Time to Visit Guatemala?

Guatemala Travel Guides

Plan your trip to Lake Atitlan

Whatever you want from your adventure in Lake Atitlan, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.

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