There are 11 towns and villages around Lake Atitlan. Among these 11, there are 5 destination that truly stand out from the rest. They are Panajachel, San Pedro, San Marcos, Santa Cruz, and Jaibalito.

The elevation of Lake Atitlan is 1,597 metres (5,240 ft). Population was 11 thousand in the 2000 census, estimated as 15,000 now (Insituto Nacional de Estadística de Guatemala), and has approximately doubled each of the last few decades.

The town of Panajachel is located on the Northeast shore of Lake Atitlan, and has become a centre for the tourist trade of the area as it provides a base for visitors crossing the lake to visit other towns and villages.

“Panajachel” derives from the Kaqchikel language and roughly translates to “place of the Matasanos,” the white sapote fruit tree.

Lake Atitlan is a lake in Central America with a maximum depth of about 340 metres (1,120 ft) with an average depth of 220 metres (720 ft). Its surface area is 130.1 km2 (50.2 sq mi).

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Mayan Egg Cleansing RitualLake Atitlan Tours and Travel Services

Mayan Egg Cleansing Ritual

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Mayan Egg Cleansing Ritual. The egg cleansing ritual, or limpia con huevo, is an ancient practice rooted in Mayan spirituality, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. This traditional ritual is a cornerstone of Mayan healing and spiritual growth, passed down through generations of curanderos and curanderas.
Secrets of Mayan HealingLake Atitlan Tours and Travel Services

Secrets of Mayan Healing

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Uncover the transformative power of ancient Mayan healing in the heart of Guatemala. Our exclusive workshops and healing center offer a rare opportunity to experience the authentic wisdom of Mayan healers, known for their profound understanding of energy balance, herbal medicine, and spiritual rejuvenation.
Fake Healers San MarcosEthical Fashion Guatemala

Fake Healers San Marcos

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The COVID-19 pandemic brought sweeping changes to tourism worldwide, and Lake Atitlan was no exception. With fewer tourists during the height of the pandemic, many expats and newcomers to the area sought new ways to sustain themselves. As tourism began to rebound, some individuals—lacking the proper knowledge or respect for Mayan traditions—San Marco saw an opportunity to capitalize on the growing interest in wellness and alternative healing.
Guatemala Herbal Medicine WorkshopGuatemala Herbal Medicine Workshop

Guatemala Herbal Medicine Workshop

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Guatemala Herbal Medicine Workshop Learn about the Mayan Culture of herbal medicine, from Lake Atitlan Mayan healers.
Airbnb on Lake AtitlánLake Atitan Travel Services

Airbnb on Lake Atitlán

Airbnb on Lake Atitlán, often referred to as the "most beautiful lake in the world," is a serene and culturally rich destination in Guatemala. Surrounded by volcanoes, its shores are dotted with vibrant villages like San Marcos, San Juan, Panajachel, and Santiago Atitlán. Over the years, tourism has brought both economic opportunities and significant challenges to the local population. One of the most transformative forces in recent years has been Airbnb, which has profoundly affected independent hotel and hostel owners, as well as residents.
Guatemala Herbal Medicine Mayan Traditions

Guatemala Mayan Herbal Medicine

Guatemala Herbal Medicine, The Mayan Traditions of Herbal Medicine thrived for six centuries through areas that are now Yucatan, Quintana Roo, Campeche, Tabasco, and Chiapas are in Mexico
Guatemala Sur MesureLake Atitlan Travel Services

Guatemala Sur Mesure

"Discover the Indian Nose hike with Guatemala Sur Mesure in Lake Atitlán, Guatemala. Enjoy a magical sunrise, cultural insights, and breathtaking views on this iconic adventure."
Swimming in Lake AtitlánSwimming in Lake Atitlán

Swimming in Lake Atitlán

Travelers are naturally drawn to its shimmering blue waters, wondering, “Can I swim in the lake?” While the allure of a refreshing dip is tempting, the lake’s ecological challenges make it important to pause, understand the situation, and make informed decisions.
Rental Car vs ShuttlesLake Atitlan Travel Services

Rental Car vs Shuttles

Final Recommendation Both renting a car and using shuttle services offer unique advantages, and the best option depends on your travel goals and comfort level. For a mix of both, consider renting a car for specific days when you want to venture off the main routes, and relying on shuttles for regular transfers between major destinations.
San Pedro Fresh Baked?Lake Atital travel Services

San Pedro Fresh Baked?

Every morning, I head to the center of San Pedro for San Pedro Fresh Baked Breads. This colorful lady will be found in San Pedro every morning, offering freshly baked loaves of coconut, banana, chocolate, cacao, and cinnamon.