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The two-hour drive heading west from Antigua leads through the central highlands, dotted with colourful traditional villages to the stunning Lake Atitlán.
The dramatic winding road leading down to the lake rewards you with incredible views of the lake and its spectacular backdrop of three cone-shaped volcanoes: San Pedro, Toliman and Atitlán.
Local villages
The Mayan Indians throughout this area are undoubtedly the most colourfully dressed in Guatemala, if not the whole of Central America, with intricately woven shirts, huipiles and skirts of the brightest reds, greens, yellows, pinks and blues. Each village around the lake maintains its own traditional dress.
The lake itself is mesmerising and spending time relaxing here absorbing the views, watching the effect of changing light and wind on the water is special enough, but the best way to enjoy the stunning scenery is to travel by ‘lancha’ (boat) visiting the Indian villages of Santiago Atitlán, Santa Catarina Palopo and San Antonio Palopo.
Markets
The highland area is also home to countless markets giving an intricate and enthralling insight into Guatemalan life. Chichicastenango is one of the largest and most famous, situated about an hour north of Lake Atitlán. Hundreds of locals and visitors flock for a bargain buy and there is everything here from souvenirs and clothes to food and household goods.
It is fascinating, but for a more authentic experience, we recommend a visit to more typical markets such as those held in the villages of Comalapa or Tecpan.
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Suggested itineraries featuring Lake Atitl谩n
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Lake Atitl谩n, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Lake Atitl谩n
- Western Highlands 26 miles away
- Antigua 33 miles away
- The Far Northwest 54 miles away
- Cob谩n & The Verapaces 77 miles away
- Flores 177 miles away
- Rio Dulce & Livingston 181 miles away
- Tikal & El Pet茅n 204 miles away
Photos of Lake Atitl谩n
Accommodation choices for Lake Atitl谩n
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Lake Atitl谩n. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Casa Palop贸
Lake Atitl谩n -
Hotel Atitl谩n
Lake Atitl谩n -
Casa del Mundo
Lake Atitl谩n
Ideas for experiencing Lake Atitl谩n
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Lake Atitl谩n, and which use the best local guides.
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Excursion to San Juan Comalapa Excursion to San Juan Comalapa
Excursion to San Juan Comalapa
Explore the historic town of San Juan Comalapa and its bustling market, where local traders sell everything from fruit and flowers to beautiful tapestries and paintings. Your guide will take you to see the other highlights throughout the town including museums, local art galleries and excellent bakeries to sample the much-loved roscas.
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San Pedro Volcano Hike San Pedro Volcano Hike
San Pedro Volcano Hike
Embark on a challenging hike through patchwork fields and beautiful cloudforest to the top of San Pedro volcano. Enjoy a delicious lunch near the summit whilst gazing out across Lake Atitl谩n and the towering peaks of the surrounding mountains.
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Santiago Bay Kayak & Hike Santiago Bay Kayak & Hike
Santiago Bay Kayak & Hike
Begin your exploration of Lake Atitl谩n by taking the kayaks to paddle through Santiago Bay where you pass by the local Tzutujil Maya people working in the fields, washing clothes and fishing from their unique wooden boats.
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Boat tour of the lake and Santiago de Atitlán Boat tour of the lake and Santiago de Atitl谩n
Boat tour of the lake and Santiago de Atitl谩n
Travel across the calm waters of Lake Atitl谩n by boat to the lively village of Santiago de Atitl谩n. Here you can explore the fascinating Catholic church and haggle for a bargain at the bustling market.
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Chichicastenango Market Chichicastenango Market
Chichicastenango Market
Explore the colourful fruit, vegetable, craft and textile stalls at this famous market. This excursion allows you to explore Chichicastenango Market at your own pace with the advantage of your own driver to take you there and back to your hotel at the end of the day.
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