Lake Atitlan One Day Tour from Antigua

Panajachel, GT
83% of travellers recommend this
Very Good (300 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Shared Boat transportation and life jackets
  • inclusion
    Local taxes
  • inclusion
    Professional local guide
  • inclusion
    Round trip shared transportation (Antigua-Panajachel-Antigual)

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Food and drinks
  • exclusion
    Tuk tuk (local small taxi) - optional q50.00 per person
  • exclusion
    Gratuities
  • exclusion
    Personal expenses

Meeting Point

If you are staying outside Antigua and you are coming by Uber or Taxi from your place to Antigua please be in front of Cafe Condesa at the Main Square of Antigua Guatemala (5a Avenida Norte #4). The driver will pick you up there around 05:30-05:50am. Inform us that you will meet the driver there.

Meeting point

La Casa del Conde, Avenida Norte 5a, Antigua Guatemala , Guatemala

End point

End Point

If you are staying outside Antigua and you are coming by Uber or Taxi from your place to Antigua please be in front of Cafe Condesa at the Main Square of Antigua Guatemala (5a Avenida Norte #4). The driver will pick you up there around 05:30-05:50am. Inform us that you will meet the driver there.

Meeting point

La Casa del Conde, Avenida Norte 5a, Antigua Guatemala , Guatemala

End point

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Camino Real Antigua
Casa Encantada
Casa Florencia Hotel
El Carmen Hotel & Restaurante
El Convento Boutique Hotel
Good Hotel Antigua
Hostal Antigua
Hotel Boutique Los Pasos
Hotel Casa del Parque by AHS
Hotel Casa San Lazaro
Hotel Casa Santo Domingo
Hotel Convento Santa Catalina by AHS
Hotel Eterna Primavera Antigua
Hotel La Galeria
Hotel La Posadita Antigua
Hotel La Quinta Lucia
Hotel La Sin Ventura
Hotel Las Farolas
Hotel Mansion Del Rey
Hotel Meson de Maria
Hotel Meson del Valle by AHS
Hotel Palacio de Dona Beatriz
Hotel Palacio de Dona Leonor
Hotel Paseo Hunahpu
Hotel Posada de Don Rodrigo Antigua
Hotel Posada Del Hermano Pedro
Hotel Posada Don Valentino
Hotel Posada San Pedro
Hotel Posada San Vicente by AHS
Hotel San Jorge
La Quinta Santa Lucia
Meson Panza Verde
Naif Hotel Boutique
Ojala
Pensativo House Hotel
Porta Hotel Antigua
Posada De San Carlos
Posada Del Angel
Posada La Merced Antigua
Quinta de las Flores
San Rafael Hotel
Soleil La Antigua
Tropicana Hostel
Villas Orotava
- We can pick up in any centrally located Antigua Hotels, AirBnB and family homestays. - We don't pick up in the surrounding villages such as San Pedro las Huertas, San Juan del Obispo, Santa Ana, El Hato, San Cristobal el Alto, San Cristobal el Bajo, San Bartolomé Becerra. - Note that the tour departs from Antigua Guatemala, if you are staying in Guatemala City and you want to join the tour we can coordinate to pick you up by private transportation from Guatemala and drive you to Antigua to catch our bus. (Additional cost) You are purchasing a shared service, it means several people will join the tour. The van will experience some delays caused by travellers that are not ready in time, or gave a wrong address. Please be Patient.

What to expect

1
Panajachel

Here is where the tour starts. At your arrival you will have around 45mins to have breakfast (Not included). After that, you walk to the dock to take the boat. Panajachel, also known as "Pana", is a charming city located on the shore of Lake Atitlan. Is the most important center of the area, reason why it concentrates the majority of hotels, restaurants, nightlife, entertainment centers and shops. Ideal for shopping for handicrafts and contributing to local tourism.

Duration 30 minutes
2
San Juan la Laguna

First town to visit. San Juan la Laguna, a quaint town onf the west shore of the lake, there are serveral cooperatives: from beekeepers, coffee growers to backstrap loom weavers, who work using natural dyes. Using ancestral techniques, they extract dyes from tree bark, vegetables, coconut shells and so on to paint of colors their products.

Duration 120 minutes
3
San Pedro La Laguna

Second town to visit San Pedro la Laguna, spreading onto a peninsula at the base of the volcano of the same name. It is as famous as Panajachel, it is the favorite place of many foreign tourists, who are fascinated by the tranquility of the environment.

Duration 45 minutes
4
Santiago Atitlan

Third town to visit: Santiago Atitlan it is a place with a lot of natural beauty and color, due the handicrafts that are made there as well as for the costume of its inhabitants. The residents wear their regional costume and the women wear colorful huipiles (blouses) woven in white cotton with geometric designs and small birds. Multicolored embroidered at the waist, and the cortes (skirts) consist of a piece of cloth wrapped around the waist; A ribbon called tocoyal is also used, which is approximately 20 meters long and is wrapped around the head. In this beautiful town is the Church of Santiago Apóstol, it was built in 1547. It is one of the oldest churches in Guatemala and in it you can appreciate the syncretism especially in the main altarpiece. There is also a Mayan idol called "Maximón" of unknown origin.

Duration 120 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Additional information
    If you want to enjoy more time the lake and want to spend a night there, we can gladly coordinate the transportation back to Antigua next day without extra cost. PLEASE let us know when you book that you need to return next day. You can choose the shared transportation leaving from Panajachel at 12:00pm or 16hrs. - ACCOMMODATION IS ON YOUR OWN. -
  • Additional information
    IMPORTANT: If do the weather conditions there is no access to any of the towns listed in the tour, we will suggest you other town options to visit and keep the three towns in your tour
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking (the meals aren't included but if you have any special requirement we can help you to choose a good restaurant according to your needs)
  • Additional information
    Return time to Antigua around 18:30-19:00hrs. All will depend on traffic and the group.
  • Additional information
    The duration of the tour is approximately 14hrs, this tour is ideal if you don't have much time to visit the country.
  • Additional information
    The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Voyageur Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try local breakfast at Panajachel.
  • icon
    Visit San Juan's dye cooperatives.
  • icon
    Don't miss Santiago's old church.
  • icon
    Bring cash for optional Tuk Tuk rides.
  • icon
    Consider a night stay for more exploration.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Uncover the hidden gems of Lake Atitlan on this captivating one-day tour. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Mayan culture as you visit the picturesque towns surrounding the breathtaking lake. With indigenous women proudly donning multicolored outfits, fishermen gracefully sailing in rustic crafts, and the impressive backdrop of three towering volcanoes, San Pedro, Toliman, and Atitlan, this tour promises a mesmerizing spectacle.

What to expect?

During this immersive experience, you can anticipate a jam-packed day filled with cultural encounters, scenic vistas, and unique insights into the local communities. From the tranquil beauty of Panajachel, a charming city on the shores of Lake Atitlan, to the quaint town of San Juan la Laguna, where natural dyes and ancestral painting techniques dazzle at every turn. The tour also takes you to San Pedro La Laguna, renowned for its serene ambiance and popularity among foreign tourists. Lastly, you'll explore Santiago Atitlan, a place of natural beauty where you'll witness the intricate craftsmanship of the locals and marvel at the historic Church of Santiago Apóstol.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Mayan culture and a desire to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. Whether you are an adventurous traveler, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this tour caters to a wide range of interests and preferences. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich traditions, enchanting landscapes, and captivating history of Lake Atitlan and its surrounding towns.

Why book this?

Embark on this tour to discover the unique selling points of Lake Atitlan. Marvel at the wondrous sight of indigenous women beautifully adorned in multicolored outfits, an ancient tradition passed down through generations. Witness the skilled craftsmanship of artists utilizing natural dyes and ancestral techniques in San Juan la Laguna. Explore the tranquility and natural beauty of San Pedro La Laguna, a serene haven favored by foreign tourists. And finally, be captivated by the colorful huipiles and vibrant culture of Santiago Atitlan, where a rich blend of Mayan and Spanish influences can be found. This immersive tour offers a truly authentic experience, providing you with insights into the customs, history, and traditions of the Mayan people.

Good to know

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to support local communities through shopping for unique handicrafts and contributing to sustainable tourism initiatives. Remember to bring comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the towns. Keep your camera handy to capture the stunning landscapes, vibrant colors, and joyful moments throughout the day. Don't miss the chance to savor the local cuisine, which offers a delightful fusion of Mayan and Spanish flavors.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on this tour have expressed their awe and admiration for the picturesque towns surrounding Lake Atitlan. They describe the experience as a truly immersive journey through Mayan culture and a chance to witness extraordinary craftsmanship. Visitors have praised the warm hospitality of the local communities, who have opened their doors to share their traditions and stories. The stunning natural beauty of the lake, combined with the vibrant colors of the indigenous attire, make for an unforgettable experience. Overall, travelers have been delighted with this one-day tour, praising its cultural enrichment, scenic splendor, and the opportunity to support local livelihoods.

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