Background

San Juan La Laguna: A Cultural Gem on Lake Atitlán

Discover Mayan culture, stunning art, and breathtaking scenery in the tranquil village of San Juan La Laguna on Lake Atitlán.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Atitlán, San Juan La Laguna is a vibrant town renowned for its rich Mayan culture, stunning natural beauty, and thriving artisan community. This peaceful village offers a more authentic Guatemalan experience compared to other, more tourist-heavy towns around the lake, with colorful murals, traditional weaving cooperatives, and breathtaking views at every turn.

A brief summary to San Juan La Laguna

  • San Juan La Laguna, GT

Local tips

  • Explore the town's vibrant murals and art galleries to immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Visit a traditional weaving cooperative to learn about Mayan techniques and purchase handcrafted textiles.
  • Hike to the Mirador Kaqasiiwaan for panoramic views of San Juan La Laguna and Lake Atitlán.
  • Learn about Mayan stingless bees and sample unique honey at Mundo de Abejas Mayas.
  • Take a boat trip to neighboring towns around Lake Atitlán to experience the diverse cultures of the region.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    San Juan La Laguna is a compact town that is easily navigable on foot. From the main dock, walk up the main street (Calle de las Sombrillas) to reach the heart of the village. Explore the side streets and alleys to discover hidden murals, art galleries, and weaving cooperatives. The Mirador Kaqasiiwaan is located a short uphill walk from the town center; follow the signs. Expect to pay a Q20 entrance fee to access the mirador.

  • Public Transport

    The most common way to arrive in San Juan La Laguna is by boat (lancha) from other towns on Lake Atitlán. Regular boat services connect San Juan with Panajachel, San Pedro, and other lakeside communities. From Panajachel, the boat trip to San Juan costs approximately Q25 and takes 25-40 minutes. From San Pedro, the trip costs around Q10 and takes approximately 5 minutes. Upon arrival at the main dock in San Juan, you can easily walk to most destinations within the town.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and tuk-tuks are available in neighboring towns such as San Pedro and Panajachel. A tuk-tuk from San Pedro to San Juan costs around Q15 and takes 8-12 minutes. A taxi from Panajachel to San Juan is not common, as the primary transport between these towns is by boat. Note that there is limited car access to San Juan La Laguna.

Unlock the Best of San Juan La Laguna

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about San Juan La Laguna

San Juan La Laguna, located on the southwest shore of Lake Atitlán, is a captivating town that offers visitors an immersive experience into the traditions and culture of the Tz'utujil Maya people. Founded in colonial times, San Juan has preserved its authentic charm, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking a genuine connection with Guatemala's indigenous heritage. The town is renowned for its vibrant art scene, with colorful murals adorning buildings throughout the village. These murals depict scenes from Mayan mythology, daily life, and local history, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Tz'utujil people. San Juan is also home to numerous art galleries and workshops, where visitors can admire and purchase paintings, sculptures, and textiles crafted by local artists. San Juan is also known for its traditional weaving cooperatives, where women create beautiful textiles using ancient Mayan techniques. Visitors can observe the weaving process, learn about natural dyes, and purchase unique, handcrafted items directly from the artisans. Other cultural experiences include learning about Mayan stingless bees and the traditional process of coffee and chocolate production. Beyond its cultural attractions, San Juan offers stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by mountains and overlooks the pristine waters of Lake Atitlán, providing breathtaking views. Visitors can enjoy hiking to the Mirador Kaqasiiwaan for panoramic vistas, kayaking on the lake, or exploring the nearby Indian Nose for a surreal sunrise experience.

Popular Experiences near San Juan La Laguna

Popular Hotels near San Juan La Laguna

Select Currency