About · Around the Lake
Lake Atitlan.
One of the most
remarkable places
on earth.
The lake
Formed by a volcano.
Held by three more.
Lake Atitlan was formed thousands of years ago by a catastrophic volcanic eruption, one of the largest in geological history. The resulting caldera filled with water and became the deepest lake in Central America, ringed by three active volcanoes: Atitlan, Toliman, and San Pedro.
"The local Maya call it the bellybutton of the world. Whether or not you feel the energy, something shifts when you sit by this water long enough."
The lake sits at 1,560 meters above sea level. The air is clean, the water is cold and clear, and the light changes hourly. Travelers have been coming here for centuries. Most leave changed in ways they find difficult to explain.
The villages
Each town a world of its own
The lake is ringed by more than a dozen distinct Mayan villages, each with its own character, market, and pace. All are accessible by lancha, the shared public boats that run throughout the day. Here are the main ones worth exploring from Tzununa.
The spiritual hub of the lake. Meditation centers, holistic therapies, healthy cafes, and a palpable sense of quiet. The preferred destination for meditators and those doing inner work. Small, walkable, and beautiful.
The main town and transport hub of the lake. ATMs, markets, restaurants, shops. The Santander pedestrian street is lined with handicraft stalls selling Mayan textiles, jade, and pottery. Good for a half-day.
More lively and social than San Marcos, bars, restaurants, language schools, and a young traveler energy. Sits beneath the San Pedro Volcano, which can be hiked with a guide in a full day. Good Spanish schools here.
Known for its artists and cooperatives. Mayan women's weaving cooperatives, natural dye workshops, coffee farms, and a more local, less-touristed atmosphere. Worth a morning to wander the streets and meet the makers.
Tiny, quiet, and perched on a cliff above the water. Home to scuba diving operations and a few beloved restaurants. The hike between Santa Cruz and San Marcos along the lakeshore is one of the best walks in the region.
The largest traditional Mayan town on the lake, on the far south shore. Famous for the shrine of Maximon, a fascinating syncretism of Mayan and Catholic tradition. A more immersive cultural experience than the smaller villages.
"There are very few places in the world where the landscape itself changes you. The lake is one of them. You arrive as a tourist. You leave as something else."Past guest · Alma Atitlan
What to do
Adventures on
and around the lake
Volcano Hike
Hike San Pedro Volcano with a local guide, a full-day ascent rewarded with views of the entire lake and beyond. Also accessible: Atitlan and Toliman volcanoes for more experienced hikers.
Full day · Guide required · Arrange locally
Kayak & SUP
Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals available in San Marcos and San Pedro. Morning is best, the lake is calmer before the afternoon wind (called Xocomil) picks up.
Half or full day · Rentals available locally
SUP Yoga
Stand-up paddleboard yoga on the lake, one of the most popular add-ons at Alma Atitlan. High-end wooden paddles, 4-hour session with instruction. $85 per person.
4 hours · $85/person · Book via Alma Atitlan
Waterfall Hike
A seasonal hike to local waterfalls in the mountains above Tzununa and neighboring villages. Best in rainy season when the falls are running fully. Ask us for current conditions and directions.
Seasonal · Half day · Ask at reception
Village Boat Tour
Private boat tour of three or four villages around the lake, a culturally immersive half-day that covers more ground than you could on foot. We can arrange this for groups and individuals.
Half day · Inquire for pricing
Scuba Diving
Lake Atitlan has a unique freshwater diving experience, volcanic formations, unusual visibility, and endemic species. Dive operations based in Santa Cruz la Laguna, 10 minutes by lancha.
Half day · Santa Cruz · All levels welcome
Paragliding
Tandem paragliding from the cliffs above the lake, one of the most dramatic flying experiences in Central America. The view of all three volcanoes from the air is unforgettable.
1, 2 hours · Arrange locally or via Alma
Horseback Riding
Ride through the mountain trails and coffee farms above the lake with local guides. A completely different perspective on the landscape, and a genuinely beautiful half-day out.
Half day · Arrange locally
On the water
Getting around the lake
- Public lanchas (shared boats) run between all villages throughout the day. They are the main form of lake transport.
- First boats typically leave Panajachel around 6 a.m., with the last departing around 6 p.m.
- Private lanchas are available at any time for an additional cost.
- From Tzununa, San Marcos is 5 minutes away, Santa Cruz is 10 minutes away, Panajachel is 15 minutes away, and San Pedro is 20 minutes away.
- Tuk-tuks connect the dock to the village, and all drivers know the main locations.
- The morning Xocomil wind can make afternoon lake crossings rough, so plan accordingly.
In the villages
Cultural notes
- Lake Atitlan is home to a primarily indigenous Mayan population. Please dress modestly when visiting villages, especially women.
- Spanish is widely spoken, though some elders speak primarily Tz'utujil or Kaqchikel Maya.
- Photography of people should always be requested, never assumed.
- Markets are usually most active on weekends, which is the best time to shop for textiles and crafts.
- ATMs are available in Panajachel. Bring cash for smaller villages. USD is widely accepted at the property.
- The lake is at 1,560 meters. Stay hydrated, especially if you are hiking or exerting yourself during your first days.
Ready to explore?
Write to us when booking and we will help plan excursions around your schedule.
Get in touch