Maximon: A Cultural Gem in Santiago Atitlán
Discover the spiritual heart of Santiago Atitlán at Maximon, a unique fusion of indigenous beliefs and vibrant cultural practices.
Maximon, an enchanting blend of tradition and spirituality in Santiago Atitlán, invites tourists to explore the vibrant rituals and rich cultural heritage of the local Mayan community. This unique attraction, revered for its significance in indigenous spirituality, offers an immersive glimpse into the heart of Guatemalan culture.
A brief summary to Maximon 2023-2024
- JQR9+3GW, Santiago Atitlán, GT
Local tips
- Visit during local ceremonies to witness authentic rituals and community participation.
- Bring small offerings like cigars or flowers, as they are appreciated by the local community.
- Be respectful when taking photos; ask permission if locals are present.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or the local dialect to connect with the community.
- Plan your visit around the evening when the atmosphere is most vibrant and lively.
Getting There
-
Boat
To reach Maximon in Santiago Atitlán, start by taking a boat from your current location on Lake Atitlán. If you are in Panajachel, head to the main dock (Embarcadero de Panajachel) and look for the boats heading to Santiago Atitlán. The boat ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at the Santiago Atitlán dock, disembark and take a moment to enjoy the vibrant surroundings.
-
Walking
After disembarking at the Santiago Atitlán dock, head towards the main road (Calle Principal). Walk straight along this road, keeping an eye out for local shops and the lively market. Continue walking until you reach a T-intersection. At this intersection, turn left onto Calle de la Iglesia, which leads directly toward the central plaza. Keep walking until you reach the church and then continue straight. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Maximon, which is located at JQR9+3GW in Santiago Atitlán. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk from the dock.
-
Local Transport
If you prefer not to walk, you can hire a local tuk-tuk once you arrive at the Santiago Atitlán dock. Simply approach one of the tuk-tuk drivers and ask for a ride to Maximon. Provide them with the address JQR9+3GW, and they will take you there. The fare should be reasonable, and the ride will take about 5-10 minutes.
Discover more about Maximon 2023-2024
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Playa Pública Chinim ya', Santiago Atitlán
0.3 km
Discover paradise at Playa Pública Chinim Ya, a beautiful public beach on Lake Atitlán, offering stunning views, relaxation, and a taste of local culture.
Parque Xechivoy
0.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Parque Xechivoy, a serene park in Santiago Atitlán perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Posada de Santiago
1.0 km
Experience tranquility and authentic Guatemalan culture at Posada de Santiago, your ideal retreat near Lake Atitlán's stunning vistas.
ATITLAN EXPEDITIONS
1.7 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Lake Atitlán with a stay at Atitlan Expeditions, your perfect lodging choice in Santiago Atitlán.
Dreamland ~ Sanctuary & Gardens
2.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Dreamland Sanctuary & Gardens, a wellness retreat by Lake Atitlán that offers relaxation, rejuvenation, and stunning natural vistas.
Mikaso Hotel
7.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of San Pedro La Laguna at Mikaso Hotel, your perfect lakeside retreat.
Playa Las Cristalinas, San Pablo La Laguna.
9.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Playa Las Cristalinas, a serene lakeside escape at Lago de Atitlán, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Eagle's Nest Atitlán - Yoga, Dance & Community
10.2 km
Discover tranquility and wellness at Eagle's Nest Atitlán, where yoga, community, and breathtaking lake views await.
Mayan Face / Indian Nose Viewpoint
10.3 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas of Lake Atitlán at the Mayan Face / Indian Nose Viewpoint, a must-visit attraction in San Juan La Laguna.
Atitlan Organics
11.3 km
Experience the harmony of nature and sustainability at Atitlan Organics, a unique farm along the stunning shores of Lake Atitlan.
Tours Atitlan
11.5 km
Explore Lake Atitlán's breathtaking beauty with personalized tours, cultural experiences, and adventure activities from Tours Atitlan.
La Fortuna at Atitlan
12.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Lake Atitlan at La Fortuna, a scenic hotel offering comfort, adventure, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes.
Reserva de Uso Múltiple la Cuenca del Lago de Atitlán
12.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems of Reserva de Uso Múltiple la Cuenca del Lago de Atitlán, a must-visit nature preserve in Guatemala.
VILLAS JUCANYA
13.3 km
Experience unparalleled tranquility at Villas Jucanya, a luxury hotel nestled on the stunning shores of Lake Atitlán in Panajachel, Guatemala.
Porta Hotel del Lago
13.3 km
Discover tranquility at Porta Hotel del Lago, where stunning views of Lake Atitlán and luxurious accommodations await your arrival.
Unmissable attractions to see
Parque Central de Santiago Atitlán
0.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and vibrant culture at Parque Central de Santiago Atitlán, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Renovación Carismática Católica, Santiago Atitlán
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant faith and community spirit at Renovación Carismática Católica in Santiago Atitlán, a captivating destination for spiritual travelers.
Saint James the Apostle Church
0.3 km
Discover the historical and architectural beauty of Saint James the Apostle Church, a serene spiritual retreat in the heart of Santiago Atitlán.
Chuk muk
0.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Chuk Muk garden in Santiago Atitlán, a serene escape with stunning views of Lake Atitlán and vibrant local flora.
Santiago Atitlán
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and rich culture of Santiago Atitlán, a serene lakeside town in Guatemala surrounded by majestic volcanoes.
Volcán San Pedro
4.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Volcán San Pedro, a must-visit destination in Guatemala offering stunning views, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures.
Mirador Rey Tepepul Reserva Natural de Atitlan
4.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich biodiversity at Mirador Rey Tepepul, a serene nature preserve in the heart of Santiago Atitlán, Guatemala.
Volcán Tolimán
5.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Volcán Tolimán, an iconic nature preserve in Guatemala that beckons to explorers and nature lovers alike.
San Pedro Paddle and Adventures - Finca Road
5.4 km
Experience the thrill of adventure sports amidst the stunning landscapes of Lake Atitlán at San Pedro Paddle and Adventures.
Canopy San Pedro
6.1 km
Experience the thrill of zip-lining at Canopy San Pedro, where adventure meets breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán and its surrounding nature.
Volcán San Pedro Trailhead
6.3 km
Discover the stunning views and natural beauty at Volcán San Pedro Trailhead, a hiking gem near Lake Atitlán in Guatemala.
Lake Atitlán
6.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Lake Atitlán, Guatemala's stunning volcanic lake surrounded by charming villages.
San Pedro La Laguna
6.7 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of San Pedro La Laguna, a vibrant lakeside town rich in culture, adventure, and breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán.
Embarcadero para ATITLAN
7.0 km
Discover the scenic beauty and vibrant culture at the Embarcadero para ATITLAN, your perfect gateway to Lake Atitlán's wonders.
Lago Atitlán
7.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Lago Atitlán, a stunning lake surrounded by majestic volcanoes in Guatemala.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante casa Atitlan
0.0 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine with stunning views at Restaurante Casa Atitlan in Santiago Atitlán.
Yerminacios Bistro
0.1 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Yerminacios Bistro in Santiago Atitlán - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Restaurante el Pescador de Santiago Atitlan, Sololá, Guatemala.
0.1 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine with stunning lake views at Restaurante el Pescador de Santiago Atitlán.
cevichería. Láke Atitlán
0.1 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan seafood at Cevichería by Lake Atitlán - where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Germinación Cocina y Bistro
0.1 km
Experience the flavors of Guatemala at Germinación Cocina y Bistro—where traditional meets modern in Santiago Atitlán.
Restaurante Raíces Atitlán
0.1 km
Experience unique fusion cuisine at Restaurante Raíces Atitlán while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán and its majestic volcanoes.
Brisas Del Lago
0.2 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine with stunning views at Brisas Del Lago - your culinary oasis in Santiago Atitlán.
Restaurante Atitlan Dreams
0.2 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante Atitlan Dreams with stunning views over Lake Atitlán.
Restaurante LyN
0.2 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante LyN in Santiago Atitlán - a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Restaurante Khtlyn y Danne
0.2 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine with stunning views at Restaurante Khtlyn y Danne in Santiago Atitlán.
Restaurante El Gran Sol
0.2 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine with stunning views at Restaurante El Gran Sol in Santiago Atitlán.
El Chef Restaurante
0.2 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine with stunning views at El Chef Restaurante by Lake Atitlán.
Lolita Café y Pasteles
0.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Guatemala at Lolita Café y Pasteles – your go-to spot for fresh pastries and delightful treats in Santiago Atitlán.
Restaurante El Maná
0.3 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante El Maná in Santiago Atitlán with stunning lake views.
Cevicheria Jireh
0.3 km
Discover fresh ceviche and authentic Guatemalan flavors at Cevicheria Jireh in scenic Santiago Atitlán.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tzanjuyu
0.1 km
Explore Tzanjuyu in Santiago Atitlán, your destination for authentic Guatemalan clothing and unique artisan crafts.
Yotzer Atitlán
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Santiago Atitlán at Yotzer Atitlán, your go-to general store for local crafts and essential goods.
Casa de arte Reanda
0.1 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan crafts at Casa de Arte Reanda in Santiago Atitlán, a gift shop showcasing local artistry and cultural heritage.
PRENDAS JIREH
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of Guatemalan fashion at Prendas Jireh, a clothing store in Santiago Atitlán offering unique styles and cultural treasures.
Boutique la buena moda
0.2 km
Explore Boutique la Buena Moda in Santiago Atitlán for unique local crafts, stylish apparel, and a taste of Guatemalan culture.
Peques Contentos
0.2 km
Explore vibrant local fashion at Peques Contentos in Santiago Atitlán, where culture and style meet in the heart of Guatemala.
Ropas Típicas Sureli
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Guatemalan culture at Ropas Típicas Sureli, where traditional attire meets vibrant craftsmanship in Santiago Atitlán.
Típicos Jamar
0.2 km
Explore Típicos Jamar in Santiago Atitlán for traditional Guatemalan clothing and vibrant local styles that capture the essence of the culture.
Bordados Magda
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant world of Guatemalan textiles at Bordados Magda in Santiago Atitlán, where culture meets craftsmanship.
Boutique JDaniels
0.2 km
Explore Boutique JDaniels in Santiago Atitlán for exclusive menswear that combines style and local craftsmanship in a stunning lakeside setting.
CREACIONES SNARS
0.3 km
Explore Creaciones Snars: A vibrant paintings store in Santiago Atitlán showcasing Guatemalan artistry and culture.
BOUTIQUE, ZEBRA
0.3 km
Explore Boutique Zebra in Santiago Atitlán for unique clothing that captures the vibrant spirit of Guatemala's culture.
Boutique y Zapatería el Excelente
0.3 km
Explore Boutique y Zapatería el Excelente in Santiago Atitlán for unique, handcrafted shoes that embody local culture and craftsmanship.
Multiventas Atitlán
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Santiago Atitlán at Multiventas Atitlán, where local crafts and stunning views come together for an unforgettable experience.
Micelanea Luminares
0.3 km
Discover unique local crafts and modern fashion at Micelanea Luminares in Santiago Atitlán, a vibrant outlet store showcasing Guatemalan artistry.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snak Bar Bistro
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Snak Bar Bistro in Santiago Atitlán, where local flavors and breathtaking views come together.
Gold Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santiago Atitlán at Gold Bar, where local charm meets refreshing drinks in a lively atmosphere.
La Caverna
0.3 km
Discover La Caverna, a vibrant bar in Santiago Atitlán offering local drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.
Crazy moon
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Crazy Moon, a lively bar in Santiago Atitlán offering a delightful selection of drinks and a warm atmosphere.
Ranchito Atitlan
0.7 km
Experience an authentic sports bar vibe at Ranchito Atitlan, where local culture meets delicious food and stunning views of Lake Atitlán.
The Pool Bar & Grill
7.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Pool Bar & Grill in San Pedro La Laguna, where refreshing drinks meet stunning views and a relaxing poolside vibe.
Bar Sublime
7.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Sublime in San Pedro La Laguna, where great drinks, music, and unforgettable moments await.
The Alegre Pub
7.6 km
Discover vibrant nightlife at The Alegre Pub, San Pedro La Laguna's favorite spot for live music, burgers, and good times.
Exotic Drinks
13.3 km
Discover Exotic Drinks in Panajachel, a vibrant lakeside bar offering exquisite cocktails and stunning views of Lake Atitlán.
Selina Beach Bar
13.5 km
Discover the vibrant Selina Beach Bar in Panajachel for stunning views, refreshing drinks, and a lively atmosphere on the shores of Lake Atitlán.
Taberna los bro
13.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Taberna los Bro, a charming beer garden in Panajachel, perfect for relaxing and enjoying local brews with stunning views.
CoCoBoLo
13.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and local culture at CoCoBoLo, the must-visit bar in stunning Panajachel, Guatemala.
Small Bar La Azotea
13.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Small Bar La Azotea in Panajachel, where stunning views and refreshing drinks await at Lake Atitlán.
La clínica
13.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Clínica, a bar in Panajachel serving local drinks and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Guatemala.
Amaranto Bar
13.9 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Amaranto Bar in Panajachel, where refreshing drinks meet stunning views of Lake Atitlán.