With a nickname like “the land of eternal spring,” Guatemala had been on my radar ever since its bougainvillea-draped Antigua and the dreamy blue expanse of Lake Atitlán made rounds on social media. I got lucky: I visited twice this year—first for work, then for a girls’ trip.
Antigua’s cobblestone streets and courtyard cafes lived up to the hype, but it was Guatemala’s lake region, nicknamed the Lake Como of Central America, that stole my heart.
Though it shares little with Italy beyond jaw-dropping beauty, Lake Atitlán—a glittery blue lake ringed by three volcanoes—offers dazzling views and peaceful atmosphere without the tourist overload and sky-high prices. It’s still something of a hidden gem, as it remains under the radar of many travelers.
How to Get to (and Around) Lake Atitlán
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Most travelers arrive via La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City, or from nearby Antigua. If you’ve got the budget, a helicopter will get you to the lake in 30 minutes but most opt for the three- to four-hour drive through the winding mountain roads. The drive is scenic, but rough. Dramamine highly recommended.
You can choose a public shuttle (~$20) or book a private transfer for more comfort and convenience. Either way, you’ll likely pass through Panajachel, the lake’s main hub, where boats connect to surrounding villages. (Many villages on the lake are not accessible by car, only by boat.)
Lake Atitlán’s towns are mostly boat-access-only, linked by lanchas—colorful public boats running every 20 minutes or so. A ride costs 25 quetzales (about $3.25). Private boats are also available but more expensive. Be sure to confirm you destination and the price before boarding a public boat to avoid surprise charges. (Speaking Spanish—or making sure you have a tool to translate—comes in handy here.)
What to Do, See, and Eat in Lake Atitlán
Simply taking in the lake, especially as the weather changes—watching it shift from sun to storm and back again—is enough. But if you’re looking to dig a little deeper, there’s plenty more to do.
Casa Palopó
Casa Palopó
Looking for Lake Como vibes? Head straight to the rustic-chic Casa Palopó, one of two Relais & Chateaux properties in Guatemala. Perched on a cliff, it’s one of the few properties accessible by car, making it an ideal base to stay. But if you’re only popping in, consider booking the afternoon tea.
Its lakeside restaurant, Kinnik, is worth the journey and effort of booking a private boat. Expect hand-press tortillas made on the spot, grilled steak and veggies, and Aperol Spritzes—all with a panoramic view of the water.
La Casa del Mundo
This cliffside Italian villa-style hotel is Instagram-famous for good reason: vibrant gardens, breathtaking terraces, and plenty of hammocks perfect for an afternoon nap. If you’re not staying overnight at La Casa del Mundo (though, you should consider it), day passes are available for about $6.50. They grant access to the lake, restaurant, and hot tub from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.—just be sure to book ahead, as spots are limited. While it’s charming nooks are worth exploring, note that it may not suit everyone, as there are lots of stairs and shared bathrooms. La Casa del Mundo is only accessible by boat, but it is serviced by public routes.
Swim, Paddle, Eat
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Guatemalan enchiladas are another must-try local dish—yes, they’re different from the enchiladas you’re used to—and, really, anything with tortillas promises to be delicious here.
Most hotels offer kayaking and paddleboarding, and a lake dip is refreshing (though not every area is swimmable—ask first). Start your day with a desayuno chapín: scrambled eggs, black beans, fried plantains, queso fresco, and fresh tortillas. Try Guatemalan-style enchiladas, too—they’re nothing like their Mexican counterparts.
Explore the lakeside villages
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If you’re up for adventure, hop on a public boat and visit nearby towns. Many have hike-able trails, tours, markets, shopping, or climbs to lookout points.
San Juan La Laguna: The lake’s most colorful town, filled with murals, umbrella-canopied streets, and artisan textiles.
Santa Catarina Palopo: This village is undergoing a colorful transformation thanks to a community initiative to revive it with vibrant patterned murals covering just about everywhere the eye can see; designer Katy Jay’s concept store is also located here.
Or … don’t explore at all
Honestly, the best part of Lake Atitlán may be doing nothing at all. Pick the right hotel for you, soak in the view, and let Guatemala’s version of la dolce vita come to you.
