Antigua Guatemala's Blog

Fifteen Mayan villages are scattered around the shores of Lake Atitlán, cozily nestled within the lake’s surrounding crags. Each village is distinctive in its charm. With the lakes three captivating giants – Volcan Atitlán, Volcan Tolimán and Volcan San Pedro – the lakeside pueblos create a culturally colorful Mayan mosaic, which rings Lake Atitlán’s mesmerizing waters.

Panajachel, or “Pana,” is the largest of the lakeside villages and represents the tourist “hot spot.” Here visitors will find the largest collection of hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, and night clubs. For those eager to stock up on memorabilia, the town’s main street, Calle Santander, is overflowing with handcrafted souvenirs.

The backpacker-favorite, San Pedro La Laguna, represents the second most-popular lakeside destination. Most low-budget travelers make their way to the opposite side of the lake by taking the local lancha – a small motorized boat that represents the best mode of transportation around the lake. Spanish schools are popular here and offer backpackers the chance to glimpse the traditional, Maya way-of-life through week long home stays with a local family. San Pedro also represents “base camp” for making the scenic, yet strenuous hike up the lake’s infamous “Indian’s Nose” crag.

Santa Cruz La Laguna is also popular with the backpackers. The Iguana Perdida Hostel provides those wanting to get a more “in depth” exploration of Lake Atitlán the chance to dive below the surface of the mysterious water-filled crater. Recently, remnants of ancient Mayan villages have been found beneath the blue-turquoise waters and archeologists are currently investigating the submerged village of Sambaj.

While yoga is practiced at Santa Cruz La Laguna, the lake’s true meditation hideaway is San Marcos La Laguna. Most that visit this peaceful pueblo are looking for a relaxing, spiritual escape. However, adventure-seeking backpackers are known to stop by in the afternoons to go cliff jumping with the local, Maya children.

Jaibalito is little known to most visitors. But visitors who venture to the sleepy village will be rewarded with the chance to soak up the sun and admire a stunning view of the Lake’s three volcanoes from Club Ven Aca’s infinity pool. Purchase a cocktail or a gourmet meal and enjoy the pool for free.

Two villages that rest on the East side Lake Atitlán provide visitors a wonderful glimpse into local Guatemalan customs. Watch Maya women craft hand-woven goods with their back strap looms in Santa Catarina Palopó. In San Antonio Palopó visitors spy a more modern, wooden loom in most homes. The pueblo is also known for its beautiful ceramics.

The most remote village on the lake is Santiago de Atitlán. Yet, the pueblo is widely known for its devout worship of Maximón. The legendary Maximón represents a fusion of a traditional Mayan saint and the Catholic equivalent (San Simón) that was forced upon the Maya culture during the Spanish conquest. Those who worship Maximón offer the idol cigarettes, beer, spirits and cigars in exchange good health, good crops, counseling in marital affairs and more.