Discover the Serene Beauty of Lake Amatitlán
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Lake Amatitlán, a serene volcanic lake perfect for relaxation and adventure in Guatemala.
Nestled in the heart of Guatemala, Lake Amatitlán offers a breathtaking escape for tourists seeking natural beauty, cultural richness, and a tranquil atmosphere. This stunning lake, surrounded by lush mountains and vibrant local communities, provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure alike. Visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, or simply soaking in the picturesque views. Don't miss the opportunity to engage with the warm local culture and savor traditional Guatemalan cuisine at nearby eateries.
A brief summary to Lake Amatitlan
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best views and fewer crowds.
- Try local food at the lakeside restaurants for an authentic experience.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be quite intense, especially during midday.
- Consider taking a guided boat tour to explore the lake's hidden gems.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as rain can affect outdoor activities.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Quetzaltenango, take the CA-1 highway heading towards Guatemala City. Continue on CA-1 for approximately 50 kilometers until you reach the junction for the CA-9. Take the exit towards CA-9 and follow the signs for Amatitlán. After about 15 kilometers, you will see signs for Lake Amatitlán. Follow the signs, and you will arrive at the lake area. Expect to pay around 10-20 GTQ for parking.
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Public Transportation - Bus
From Quetzaltenango, head to the main bus terminal (Terminal de Buses) and look for buses heading to Guatemala City. Make sure to ask for a bus that stops in Amatitlán. The bus ride will take approximately 2 hours and costs around 30 GTQ. Once in Amatitlán, you can walk to the lake, which is a short distance from the bus stop.
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Public Transportation - Shuttle
You can also opt for a shuttle service from Quetzaltenango to Lake Amatitlán. Book a seat at a local shuttle service provider, which usually operates between the cities. The shuttle will drop you off near the lake area. The cost is typically around 50-70 GTQ, and the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.
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Taxi
For a more direct route, consider hiring a taxi from any location in the Western Highlands. Ensure you negotiate a fare before starting your journey; the cost from Quetzaltenango to Lake Amatitlán may range from 300 to 400 GTQ. It's advisable to use a reputable taxi service for safety.
Discover more about Lake Amatitlan
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pizza Pacaya
8.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Pizza Pacaya, a local favorite in San Vicente Pacaya, blending fresh ingredients with a passion for pizza.
Sitio Arqueológico El Mulato
15.3 km
Uncover the rich history of the Mayan civilization at Sitio Arqueológico El Mulato, a captivating archaeological site in Guatemala City.
Plaza Colombia
16.4 km
Explore Plaza Colombia - A Historical Gem in Guatemala City, Perfect for Relaxation and Cultural Immersion.
Acueducto de Pinula
17.0 km
Discover the stunning Acueducto de Pinula, an architectural marvel and historical landmark in Guatemala that showcases the ingenuity of past civilizations.
Plaza Obelisco
17.1 km
Explore the heart of Guatemala City at Plaza Obelisco, a historical monument that captures the vibrant culture and spirit of the city.
Handcrafts Market
17.1 km
Discover the vibrant Handcrafts Market in Guatemala City, home to unique artisanal crafts and a rich cultural experience.
Guatemala City Guatemala Temple
17.2 km
Discover serenity and spirituality at the Guatemala City Temple, a stunning architectural gem amidst lush gardens in Guatemala City.
Nacional Museum of Mayan Art: Archeology and Ethnology
17.2 km
Discover the rich cultural tapestry of the Mayan civilization at the Nacional Museum of Mayan Art in Guatemala City, an unmissable travel destination.
The Children's Museum of Guatemala
17.2 km
Explore, learn, and play at The Children's Museum of Guatemala - a vibrant destination for young minds and families.
Zoológico La Aurora
17.4 km
Explore the enchanting Zoológico La Aurora in Guatemala City, where wildlife conservation meets family-friendly fun in a beautifully landscaped setting.
LA JOYA DE OAKLAND Park
17.4 km
Discover tranquility at La Joya de Oakland Park, an urban oasis in Guatemala City offering lush greenery, serene walking paths, and perfect picnic spots.
Acueducto de la serpiente
17.4 km
Explore the Acueducto de la Serpiente in Guatemala City—an architectural wonder that embodies history and natural beauty in one breathtaking location.
Hacienda Real Zona 10
17.5 km
Indulge in the best steaks and authentic Guatemalan flavors at Hacienda Real Zona 10, a top destination for food lovers in Guatemala City.
Palacio Cristal • Zona 9
17.6 km
Experience the best of Chinese cuisine in Guatemala City at Palacio Cristal, where tradition meets flavor in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Cadejo Brewing Company
17.7 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer scene at Cadejo Brewing Company, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere in Guatemala City.
Unmissable attractions to see
Reserva Natural Bosques del Lago
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Reserva Natural Bosques del Lago in El Cerrito, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Parque Natural Calderas
5.1 km
Discover the serene landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Parque Natural Calderas, a must-visit natural attraction in Santa Elena Barillas, Guatemala.
Laguna Escondida Calderas
5.1 km
Laguna Escondida Calderas: A Serene Natural Lagoon Surrounded by Lush Landscapes Near Pacaya Volcano, Perfect for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers.
Castillo de Dorión
5.3 km
Explore the captivating Castillo de Dorión in Villa Nueva, a historical treasure showcasing Guatemala's rich heritage and breathtaking views.
La Pérgola de la Laguna
5.3 km
Explore the tranquility of La Pérgola de la Laguna, a picturesque tourist attraction in Guatemala, perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Finca Laguacate Laguna de Calderas
5.4 km
Explore Finca Laguacate Laguna de Calderas, a stunning natural attraction in Guatemala, perfect for adventure and relaxation amidst breathtaking landscapes.
IRTRA Amatitlan
5.8 km
Experience fun and relaxation at IRTRA Amatitlan, Guatemala's premier water park beside the stunning Lake Amatitlán.
Parque de San Miguel Petapa
6.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Parque de San Miguel Petapa, a lush park perfect for relaxation, family outings, and community events in Guatemala.
Rancho Pacaya
6.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Rancho Pacaya, a top hiking destination in Bejucal, Guatemala, set against a stunning volcanic backdrop.
Entrada: Parque Nacional Volcan De Pacaya
7.0 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures at Volcan De Pacaya National Park, an iconic destination for nature lovers in Guatemala.
Parque Amatitlán
7.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and recreational activities at Parque Amatitlán, a must-visit destination in Guatemala for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Amatitlan Central Park
7.8 km
Discover tranquility at Amatitlán Central Park, a vibrant green oasis in the heart of Guatemala, perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences.
Turicentro El Paraiso Zona 5 Villa Nueva
7.8 km
Experience the joy of adventure at Turicentro El Paraiso, a top amusement park in Villa Nueva, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Teleférico de Amatitlán
7.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and cultural richness at the Teleférico de Amatitlán, a must-visit cable car station in Guatemala.
Ríos de Lava, Volcán Pacaya
7.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Ríos de Lava at Volcán Pacaya, Guatemala's active volcano and a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
Essential places to dine
San Rafael Campestre
6.2 km
Discover culinary delights amidst stunning landscapes at San Rafael Campestre in Villa Canales.
Pescado Vivo Guatemala
7.2 km
Experience the best of Guatemalan seafood at Pescado Vivo – where family-friendly dining meets delicious local flavors.
Pacaya Coffe Restaurant
9.1 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Pacaya Coffee Restaurant, where local flavors meet stunning volcanic views in San Vicente Pacaya.
El Jardín del Cabro BBQ Guatemala
9.2 km
Discover the taste of authentic American barbecue at El Jardín del Cabro BBQ in Pacaya, Guatemala - where flavor meets hospitality!
Pacaya Bistro
9.5 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Guatemala at Pacaya Bistro in San Vicente Pacaya - where every meal tells a story.
Restaurante El Volcan
9.5 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan flavors at Restaurante El Volcan in San Vicente Pacaya amidst stunning volcanic views.
Finca El Barretal
12.5 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Finca El Barretal surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Pacaya Restaurante
12.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Guatemalan cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Pacaya Restaurante in Los Pocitos.
El Changarro de Don Mario.
15.0 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan flavors at El Changarro de Don Mario, where every dish is a celebration of local culinary traditions.
Dandre's Restaurante
15.4 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan flavors at Dandre's Restaurante in Zona 13, where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Los Panitos
15.4 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Los Panitos - where every dish is a celebration of local flavors.
Chonita's Grill
15.5 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan flavors at Chonita's Grill—where every dish tells a story of tradition and culture.
Restaurante y Cevichería La Cabaña D'Francia
15.6 km
Discover exquisite ceviche and fresh seafood at Restaurante y Cevichería La Cabaña D'Francia in Guatemala City—where flavors meet tradition.
Diacá
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Guatemala at Diacá – where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
GIANNI'S La Noria
15.7 km
Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Gianni's La Noria in Guatemala City - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
INNOVA GT
2.0 km
Explore INNOVA GT in Amatitlán for unique handmade crafts and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Guatemala.
Lava store
8.3 km
Explore the unique Lava Store in San Vicente Pacaya for volcanic-inspired crafts, authentic Guatemalan souvenirs, and a taste of local culture.
Volcan de pacaya
8.4 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and thrilling hikes at Volcan de Pacaya, one of Guatemala's most active and beautiful volcanoes.
Restaurante humito en tus ojos
8.5 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Guatemala at Restaurante Humito en Tus Ojos, a charming grocery store and culinary hotspot in San Vicente Pacaya.
Felicita
8.5 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Pacaya at Felicita, a barber shop where grooming meets local charm and community spirit.
Coosempa
8.5 km
Explore the rich flavors of Coosempa, a premier butcher shop in Pacaya los cocos offering high-quality meats and expert butchering.
TIENDA LA BENDICION
9.0 km
Explore the heart of San Vicente Pacaya at Tienda La Bendición, where local products and friendly service await your discovery.
Joyeria Zafiro
9.0 km
Explore Joyeria Zafiro in Escuintla for exquisite handcrafted jewelry that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Guatemala.
Londy
9.0 km
Explore Londy in San Vicente Pacaya for unique clothing that blends local culture with modern fashion trends.
TIENDA LOS ÁNGELES
9.1 km
Explore Tienda Los Ángeles for unique home goods and authentic Guatemalan crafts in San Vicente Pacaya.
Universo escolar
9.1 km
Explore Universo Escolar, a charming bookstore in San Vicente Pacaya, offering a diverse collection of literature and a cozy atmosphere for book lovers.
Librería Colochitas
9.1 km
Explore Librería Colochitas in San Vicente Pacaya: a cozy bookstore filled with local literature and cultural charm for every book lover.
SAN VICENTE PACAYA(4455-18)
9.2 km
Discover the heart of Guatemala through its fresh produce and local culinary delights at San Vicente Pacaya's grocery store.
Tienda julio
9.2 km
Discover the charm of local craftsmanship at Tienda Julio in San Vicente Pacaya, where unique treasures and Guatemalan culture await every visitor.
Paseo San Vicente
9.2 km
Discover the heart of shopping and dining at Paseo San Vicente in San Vicente Pacaya, a vibrant destination that blends local culture with modern convenience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Luna Llena
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Luna Llena, a bar with stunning lake views, delicious cocktails, and a lively atmosphere in Guatemala.
Bubalonch
4.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local culture at Bubalonch, a must-visit bar in Santa Elena Barillas, Guatemala.
CAFE BAR DON KOKA
5.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Café Bar Don Koka, where local flavors and friendly vibes merge for an unforgettable night in Ciudad de Guatemala.
Bar Paradise.
6.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Guatemala City at Bar Paradise, where eclectic drinks and live entertainment create unforgettable memories.
Bar Oasis
7.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Oasis in Amatitlán, where refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
Restaurante Y Disco Bar A La Antigua
7.8 km
Savor local flavors and enjoy vibrant nightlife at Restaurante Y Disco Bar A La Antigua, a grill and bar in Amatitlán offering a unique dining experience.
Restaurante y Discoteca Rustik
9.2 km
Experience the vibrant culinary and nightlife scene at Restaurante y Discoteca Rustik in San Vicente Pacaya, a true taste of local culture.
Retro Restaurant, Food, Drinks & Music
9.3 km
Dive into a unique culinary experience at Retro Restaurant in San Vicente Pacaya, where food, drinks, and live music come together for an unforgettable night.
Tikal Sport
9.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Tikal Sport, a lively bar in the heart of Guatemala City, offering local drinks and a warm atmosphere for all.
Bar-quito de moñas
10.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and authentic Guatemalan culture at Bar-quito de Moñas, a must-visit bar in Guatemala City.
DonD'vinny
10.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at DonD'vinny, the heart of San Vicente Pacaya's nightlife scene.
Tienda Angelica
11.2 km
Experience the unique charm of Tienda Angelica, a cozy bar in San Vicente Pacaya, perfect for relaxing with drinks and connecting with locals.
TIKAL SOCIAL BAR
12.2 km
Dive into the lively atmosphere of Tikal Social Bar in Villa Nueva, Guatemala, where sports, local drinks, and socializing come together for an unforgettable experience.
BAR THE JOCKER
13.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Bar The Joker, where vibrant cocktails and local snacks combine for an unforgettable night in San Rafael.
El Farolito
13.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Guatemala City at El Farolito, a lively bar offering local drinks and a warm atmosphere for all visitors.
