Are you in the middle of preparing for your trip to Guatemala?

Trying to decide where to stay in Lake Atitlan?

In this Guatemala travel guide, I’m going to share with you the BEST places to stay at Lake Atitlan, including the BEST villages that fit your needs and the BEST hotels that fit your budget. You’ll find out where to get the best views of the lake and its magical volcanos as well as how to get to each village.

This guide is based on my one-month living, working online, and sightseeing at the lake and my three months in Guatemala.

So grab a cup of coffee (or tea) and let’s begin.

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Check out my 2022-2023 Guatemala Travel Guide for more tips, tricks, ideas, and inspiration for visiting the land of eternal spring. You’ll find over 15 travel articles to help you explore the history, culture, food, and natural beauty of Guatemala.

When I was first preparing for my trip to Lake Atitlan, I was REALLY confused about all the different villages around the lake. Should I stay in San Pedro? San Marcos? Santa Cruz? Panajachel?

I wanted the PERFECT village, the PERFECT place to stay with the PERFECT view of the lake at the PERFECT price.

But I just wasn’t finding the right information to tell me what I wanted to know. Lonely Planet and travel blogs were a mess.

In the end, I stayed a month in Lake Atitlan. I based myself in 5 different villages (Panajachel, Santa Cruz, Jaibalito, San Marcos, and San Pedro) and 7 different hotels and hostels from Airbnb to hostels to cheap hotels to more expensive hotels.

In this guide, I’m going to share all that I learned about where to stay in Lake Atitlan.

5 Tips for Finding the PERFECT Place to Stay in Lake Atitlan

TIP #1: Start by looking for a place to stay with views of the lake and volcanoes. Don’t worry about which village you’re staying in. You’ll be spending most of your day visiting different villages. Instead, find a hotel at which you can wake up every morning to that once-in-a-lifetime view and you can come back from touring the lake and sit with a glass of wine or beer and gaze out at that view again.

Here are the BEST Lake Atitlan hotels with views of the lake and volcanoes:

• Casa del Mundo (Jaibalito) – $70 – $140
• Atitlan Sunset Lodge (Santa Cruz) – $60 – $150
• La Iguana Perdido (Santa Cruz) – $16 – $60
• Palatalik (Santa Cruz) – $280
• Lake Front Retreat (Santa Cruz) – $200
• El Picnic Atitlan (Tzununa) – $150 – $250
• Bambu Guest House (Tzununa) – $20 – $50
• Hotel Casa Palopó (Santa Catarina) – $200 – $500
• Villa Santa Catarina (Santa Catarina) – $75 – $133
• Tzampoc Resort (Santa Catarina) – $200 – $300
• Hotel Atitlan (Panajachel) – $250 – $400
• Balam Ya (Panajachel) – $220 – $500
• Baraka Atitlan (San Marcos) – $150 – $300
• Eagle’s Nest (San Marcos) – All-inclusive $89 – $250
• Hotel Terrazes del Lago (San Antonio) – $40-$60

TIP #2: Book your stay for the weekday. Avoid the weekends. Prices increase and the BEST rooms fill quickly with locals from Guatemala City coming to enjoy the lake.

TIP #3: Book at least a month in advance to get the best rooms at the best price. However, if you can’t do that, you will still be able to find something even at the last minute.

TIP #4: If you’re arriving at Lake Atitlan after 6:00 pm, book your first night in Panajachel. The public boats stop running at 6:00 pm.

TIP #5: Have an open mind and expect some hiccups and bugs! Lake Atitlan has issues with stable and fast WiFi and consistent electricity. There are insects and scorpions. So, ALWAYS check your shoes before putting them on and under your sheets before getting into bed!

About Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan is the most beautiful lake I have ever seen. That is saying a lot since I grew up in a state with over 10,000 lakes. Formed by the eruption of a volcano 80,000 years ago, the lake is surrounded by tall mountains, 3 volcanoes (San Pedro, Toliman, and Atitlan), and 10 villages where Maya culture thrives.

The two main Maya ethnic groups that live around Lake Atitlan are the Tz’utujil and Kaqchikel. The towns that are best for exploring this culture are Santiago and San Juan. The former is where you can see the cult of Maximon—the highlight of my stay at the lake. San Juan is the best place to get local handicrafts. However, these two towns are great to visit but not great to stay in.

During Guatemala’s 18-year civil war, some of these towns like Santiago experienced violence including the assassinations of an American priest and massacres of civilians by the military.

In some villages (San Marcos, San Pedro, and Panajachel) the Maya have found themselves in a position of coexisting with a new kind of colonizer—wealthy foreign hippies who have moved into the villages, bought up lake side property and opened up yoga retreats, hotels, restaurants. In some parts of San Marcos, you’ll think you’re no longer in Guatemala.

BEST Villages Around Lake Atitlan

Each village around Lake Atitlan has its own vibe and character. Some are busy places with lots of tourists, while some are more local. Others are quiet and perfect for lying in a hammock with a good book and just letting the world pass by. Then there are a few villages that are perfect for those who want to spend their time partying all night.

These villages are good places to base yourself:

Village	Highlights	Easy to get to?	Types of Accommodations
Panajachel	Transport hub; lots of restaurants; views of the lake; busy; ATM, cell phone store, lots of shops	Yes	Lots of options for all budgets especially for budget travelers – Hotel Utz Jay & Balam Ya
Santa Cruz	Fabulous views of the lake; a great restaurant; lots of water sports; no ATM	Yes – public boat	Several options for all budgets along the shore and with fabulous views of the lake & volcanoes – Atitlan Sunset Lodge
Jaibalito	A very small off-the-beaten-track village with fabulous views of the lake; not much to do here except water sports; no ATM	Yes – public boat	Very few places to stay; superb views of lake and volcanoes – Hotel La Casa del Mundo
Tzununa	Small village; a mini-hippy hub; yoga retreats	Yes – public boat	Not many places to stay; most hotels have excellent views of the lake and volcanoes –  El Picnic Atitlan
San Marcos	Divided village – one part hippy hub, other part locals; expensive; yoga & places for healthy body and mind	Yes – public boat	Several options at all budget levels; some places have excellent views of the lake – Eagle’s Nest is a yoga retreat that’s a hostel with dorms and private rooms
San Juan	Famous for handicrafts; clean and well-maintained; good coffee shop; not many foreigners here	Yes – public boat	Very few options; but has 2 good hostels with dorms and private rooms – Chirris Hostel
San Pedro	A party town; lots of language schools; affordable; a mix of locals and foreigners; can be noisy	Yes – public boat	Several accommodation options at budget and mid-priced range; budget options are the cheapest on the lake; views of the lake but sometimes not of volcanoes – Hotel Mikaso
Santa Catarina	A small town; buildings are a bit more colorful; not many facilities for tourists	No public boat; only by tuk-tuk	Very few accommodations; no options for budget travelers; terrific views of lake and volcanoes – Casa Palopo & Villa Santa Catarina
San Antonio Palopo	famous for ceramics; not many tourist facilities; great for people who want a local feel	No public boat; only tuk-tuk	Very few accommodations; terrific views of the lake and volcanoes – Hotel Terrazes Del Lago

Rest of the villages around the lake:

Villages	Highlights	Easy to get to?	Accommodations
Solola	Not on lake; if you want to take public transportation out of Lake Atitlan, you need to usually come here first to change buses from Panajachel	By bus from Panajachel	Don’t stay here
San Pablo	High above lake; handicrafts; very local village; few travelers visit	No public boat	No accommodations here
Santiago	Fascinating village—home of the cult of Maximon; good village to visit but not to stay as it’s inconvenient; very local	Yes – public boat, but only connected to Panajachel	Few accommodations here – Hotel Los Olivos
San Lucas Toliman	A very local village; rarely visited	No public boat; bus from Panajachel & Santiago	Few accommodations – but Hotel Toliman is a good option

My Favorite Villages at Lake Atitlan

As I said, it’s not about the village but the hotel. That being said, some villages give you better lake views than others. Those are the ones I’d stay in.

For short-term stays, I would stay in these 3 villages:

• Santa Cruz
• Jaibalito
• Tzununa

They have the best views of the lake and volcanoes. But they’re also the smallest villages so they don’t have a lot to do during the day and at night except swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, diving, and just lying in a hammock.

For those digital nomads wanting to stay longer—several weeks or several months, I’d stay in these villages.

• Panajachel
• San Pedro

These two places have more amenities and better WiFi and are more affordable than other places on the lake.

Getting Around Lake Atitlan

It’s super easy!

Just take a small public boat like the ones in the above photo from the main pier in each village.

In Panajachel, you want to take public boats that leave from the dock at the end of Calle de Embarcadero (Google Maps).

In 2021, I paid Q20 – Q25 for a ride to a village. Locals were paying Q5. Pay when you get off the boat.

Boats leave Panajachel every 20 minutes and run from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Sit toward the back of the boat for the best comfort. The boats go fast and the ride is bumpy, so the ride can be torture on your back.

There are 2 routes for the public boats:

• Panajachel – Santa Cruz – Jaibalito – Tzununa – San Marcos – San Pedro – San Juan (then it returns to Panajachel stopping off at all the villages again) – If you want to stop at a private dock belonging to one of the hotels, just tell the driver which hotel
• Panajachel – Santiago

To get to Santa Catarina and San Antonio, you’ll need to take a tuk-tuk or a public truck from Panajachel.

Tuk-tuk is also the best way to get around within a village. You can also take a tuk-tuk between San San Juan and San Pedro.

For traveling between Santa Cruz, Jaibalito, Tzununa, and San Marcos, there is a walking trail. However, when I was there, I was told not to walk alone as people sometimes got robbed on the paths.

Best Places to Stay in Panajachel

Panajachel has a population of 16,000, yet it feels much smaller than that.

The small city is the first place most travelers visit when they arrive at Lake Atitlan. This is where you can catch a boat or tuk-tuk to most of the other villages around the lake. It’s also where you can catch a shuttle to other tourist spots around Guatemala.

Panajachel was my first and last destination on Lake Atitlan. I stayed here when I first arrived in Guatemala from Mexico. I came in at around 8:00 PM. Boats stopped running at 7:00 PM, so I had no choice but to stay here. I also stayed here on my last 2 nights at the lake so that I could visit the Chichicastenango Sunday market and leave early in the morning on the shuttle to Antigua.

Panajachel is also a good town to get a Guatemala SIM card, cash from an ATM, and a shuttle to different parts of Guatemala. Some villages don’t have ATMs.

Read about SIM cards and ATMs in this practical guide to visiting Guatemala.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Panajachel:

PROS	CONS
– Convenient – easily get to other villages on the lake – Lots of restaurants and bars – Lots of souvenir shops – WiFi is better here than elsewhere on the lake – There’s a co-working space, so it’s great for digital nomads – Lots of tour operators to choose from – Lots of options for every budget level	– Not a particularly beautiful city – It’s busier than other places around the lake, so you don’t get much peace and quiet – For views of the lake, you need to be right on the shore

Best Budget accommodations in Panajachel

The best budget Lake Atitlan hotels in Panajachel are…

• Hospedaje El Viajero
• Hotel Utz Jay – my preference

1. Hospedaje El Viajero

LOWEST PRICE: US$15 – $22 | BREAKFAST: Not included | RATING: 8.5 (800+ Reviews)

If you’re looking for a clean, conveniently located, and inexpensive place for less than US$20, then Hospedaje El Viajero is the best hotel in Panajachel.

But if their cheaper rooms are unavailable or the price has gone up and you need to pay over US$30, then Hotel Utz Jay (see below) is a much nicer hotel and a better deal than El Viajero.

I stayed here on my first night at Lake Atitlan and overpaid for my room because I booked at the last minute.

This hotel has basic rooms with a shared bathroom and rooms with ensuite bathrooms. There’s also a courtyard and shared kitchen that guests can use. It’s located right on the main drag near many restaurants and not far from the lake.

 It’s the perfect hotel if you’re arriving late on the tourist shuttle from Mexico.

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

2. Hotel Utz Jay

LOWEST PRICE: US$28 | BREAKFAST: Not included | RATING: 8.6 (520+ Reviews)

For those who are on a budget but don’t want to sleep in a dorm, Hotel Utz Jay is the best place to stay in Panajachel. It’s inexpensive, clean, and conveniently located a block from the main drag. The rooms surround a garden, making the hotel fairly quiet.

The rooms and beds are more comfortable, spacious, and appealing than Hospedaje El Viajero.

The Internet also works well here.

I stayed at Utz Jay for 2 nights, and I would stay again. I found the staff to be kind, friendly, and helpful.

There is a restaurant where you can have a fairly inexpensive meal. 

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

Best Mid-Priced Accommodation in Panajachel

3. Porta Hotel Del Lago

LOWEST PRICE: US$121 | BREAKFAST: Not included | RATING: 8.3 (787+ Reviews)

There aren’t a lot of hotels in Panajachel with lake views. Porta Hotel Del Lago is one of the rare ones. The added bonus is that you can get views of the lake from your room as well. And there’s a swimming pool.

If you’re looking for a modern hotel with comfortable and spacious rooms, then this is a good choice.

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

Best Luxury Accommodations in Panajachel

The 2 best hotels in Panajachel are Hotel Atitlan and Balam Ya. Hotel Atitlan is more conveniently located but more expensive than Balam Ya. Read on to help you decide! You can’t go wrong with either of them!

4. Hotel Atitlan

LOWEST PRICE: US$280 | BREAKFAST: Not Included | RATING: 8.6/10 (520+ Reviews)

Hotel Atitlan is one of the best places to stay in Panajachel. It’s got everything I want in a Lake Atitlan hotel—stunning views of the lake and volcanoes and loads of charm and character.

The hotel is located right on the lake for unobstructed views of the lake and within walking distance of all the restaurants and shops of Panajachel. You get beauty and convenience!

The grounds include a swimming pool, hot tub, a garden, and a bird sanctuary for Scarlet Macaws.

The rooms are gorgeous with a lot of attention to detail—decorated in a traditional Guatemalan style. Some rooms even have a fireplace. Try to upgrade to a room with a balcony and views of the volcanoes.

A beautiful and breathtaking property with immaculately manicured grounds and a wonderful view, I had such a lovely stay. The staff are great, the rooms are fantastic and the food at the restaurant is 10/10. In my opinion, great value for money considering you are staying at one of the best hotels on the lake. Lots of intricate touches and love the history of the grounds. There’s also amazing wildlife onsite! Would recommend to all and would definitely stay again.

Irihapeti from New Zealand (READ MORE REVIEWS)

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

5. Villas Balam Ya

LOWEST PRICE: US$196| KITCHEN: Yes | RATING: 9.5 (160+ Reviews)

The most gorgeous place to stay in Panajachel is Villas Balam Ya. The 6 villas have amazing views of the lake and the volcanoes.  Some villas come with simple kitchens while others have fully-equipped ones.

The rooms are beautifully designed with hardwood floors and exposed wood ceilings and beams, giving you a warm and cozy feel—perfect when it gets chilly in the evenings at Lake Atitlan.

There’s a private dock—perfect for swimming and kayaking.

The hotel doesn’t have a restaurant on the grounds, but a private chef can come to your villa and cook for you.

It’s a 10-minute drive from Panajachel—so not the most conveniently located but its remoteness makes it more peaceful.

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

Best Places to Stay in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is all about the million-dollar views of the lake and Volcanos Toliman and San Pedro. This Kaqchikel Maya town is one of my favorite places to stay.

The actual village of Santa Cruz is located high above the lake. This is where the locals live. The main reason to climb the very steep road that goes to the village is to eat at the best restaurant on the lake. I tried walking to the village, but in the end, it was so steep that I gave up and flagged a tuk-tuk down. On my way down, I walked, though.

Below the village and along the shore is a small tourist hub. Here you’ll find a few hotels, a hostel, and private homes. There are also a few restaurants, kayak and SUP rental places, a lavanderia to get your clothes washed, and a language school.

But in general, there’s not a lot going on in Santa Cruz, making it an excellent location to escape from the crowds and hustle and bustle of city life.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Santa Cruz

PROS

CONS

– EXCELLENT places to stay for all budgets – Houses to rent – Hostel on the shore of the lake The views of the lake and the volcano are some of the best at Lake Atitlan – It’s the closest village to Panajachel – It’s peaceful and quiet – One of the few places in Lake Atitlan with hotels right on the shore – Lots of water activities like kayaking, SUP, and diving – Opportunities to go hiking – There’s a language school near the shore

– Internet isn’t so great – The hotels are isolated from the actual town, so you don’t get a local feel – Not a lot of dining options – The 2 budget options are not the best

How to Get to Santa Cruz

To get to Santa Cruz from Panajachel, take a public boat (Google Maps). It should take 10 minutes.

The village is not accessible by car or bus or tuk-tuk from any other town.

You can get to the next village, Jaibalito, by walking on a path along the shore.

Best Budget Accommodations in Santa Cruz

You’ve got a few budget options in Santa Cruz. Many are basic and have gotten mixed reviews. Probably the best one of the bunch is La Iguana Perdida.

6. La Iguana Perdida

LOWEST PRICE: US$16 (dorm) US$32 (private room) | BREAKFAST: Not included | RATINGS: 8.2/10 (700+ Reviews)

If you’re looking for a hostel with a great social atmosphere, a great location, and stunning views, then La Iguana Perdida is one of the better budget places in Lake Atitlan.

I stayed here for several days and I’ve got mixed feelings about it. I love the views of the lake and volcanoes. They are unbeatable! It’s located right at the dock, so you have quick access to the public boats.

The restaurant and nightly family-style dinners are fabulous!

However, the dorm rooms are REALLY basic. Some rooms do not have any electricity! The private rooms range from basic and inexpensive to basic and overpriced.  If you can get the cheapest one, then this is a good place to stay for budget travelers.

The WiFi and internet connection were the worst I’ve experienced in all my travels. If you need to work, don’t stay here!

I wasn’t impressed with the staff — they hire a lot of volunteers. Before you leave, check your bill. When I was there, they added on drinks and a meal that I didn’t order. They were very good at quickly resolving the issue, though.

Even with all these negatives, La Iguana Perdida is a good place to stay at Lake Atitlan for a couple of days. The location and views are 10/10!

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

Best Mid-Priced Places to Stay in Santa Cruz

Atitlan Sunset Lodge is one of my FAVORITE places to stay in Lake Atitlan! It’s also one of those rare hotels that has tons of reviews and still manages to get above a 9.0 rating.

7. Atitlan Sunset Lodge

LOWEST PRICE: US$59| KITCHEN: Yes | RATING: 9.3 (360+ Reviews)

Atitlan Sunset Lodge is one of my three absolute favorite places to stay on Lake Atitlan. It is fabulous! The view, the facilities, and the studio apartment with its huge bay windows and views of the lake and volcanoes.

Even if you’re traveling on a budget, it is so worth splurging on this amazing place to stay.

Sunset Lodge is located right on the shore of Lake Atitlan. There’s a private dock in front of the hotel—great for swimming. They also have free kayaks and paddleboards for guests to use. Two bonuses are the hot tub and sauna. The restaurant on-site serves only vegetarian food.

Let’s talk about how awesome the studio apartments are. They have a private bathroom, private kitchen, and balcony. My favorite is the big bay windows with views of the lake and volcanoes. I know I’ve already mentioned the view, but it needs repeating as it is so amazing. Another bonus is the sitting area in front of the window. You can grab a cup of coffee in the morning, a good book, and sit and look out as the sun rises and sets over the lake.

They also can help with arranging tours and hiking, kayaking, and paragliding opportunities.

Atitlan Sunset Lodge sells out fast so book early!

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

House Rentals in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz has 2 house rentals that are pure gems: Lake Front Retreat and Palatalik. Both have received stunning reviews!

8. Lake Front Retreat

LOWEST PRICE: US$196| KITCHEN: Yes | RATING: 9.5 (32+ Reviews)

I adore this little house located right on the shore of the lake. It’s a 2-bedroom house for around US$200 with stunning views of the lake and volcanoes. Don’t hesitate to snatch it up!

There’s a dock, hammocks to lie in, deck chairs to sit in, and a jacuzzi to soak in. The house comes with a well-equipped kitchen.

Owners give good advice about things to do in the area.

I also love the fact that you’re within walking distance of a few restaurants.

Right on the lake and you get the whole house to yourself! What more can you ask for? The price is also pretty decent for what you get.

“I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Lake House Retreat in San Marcos, Guatemala, and it was truly a delightful experience. The peaceful ambiance of the surroundings made it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The owner’s hospitality added a personal touch to the stay, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The location is perfect for nature enthusiasts, being close to some fantastic hiking areas. The proximity to these scenic trails allowed me to explore the breathtaking landscapes, making my stay even more memorable. The tranquility of the place, coupled with its proximity to nature, made it a perfect retreat.

The accommodations were comfortable and well-maintained, providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Overall, Lake House Retreat offers a serene haven for those seeking a quiet getaway, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to unwind in the beauty of San Marcos.”

Joana from the U.S. (READ MORE REVIEWS)

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

9. Palatalik

LOWEST PRICE: US$282| KITCHEN: Yes | RATING: 9.8 (13+ Reviews)

Palatalik is probably the perfect place in Santa Cruz for a family or a group of people. Built on the side of a hill, this comfortable house has 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, a fully-stocked kitchen, and 2 terraces. Some stairs lead down to a private pier where you can go swimming.

Plus the views of the lake and the volcanoes are stunning.

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

Best Places to Stay in Jaibalito

Jaibalito is a very tiny village on the northern shore of Lake Atitlan. There are only a few streets, a few shops for locals, and a few restaurants for tourists.  

However, the views from Jaibalito are the best on the lake. And it has one of the best hotels in Lake Atitlan.

It’s only accessible by boat, but don’t let that dissuade you from staying.

If you want a quiet place where you can get away from the stresses of life, then don’t hesitate to stay here.

Sadly, besides house rentals, there aren’t a lot of hotels in Jaibalito.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Jaibalito

PROS	CONS
– My favorite place to stay is here! – Superb views – Excellent for those who want a tranquil and – laidback atmosphere – Walk to Santa Cruz, Tzununa, and San Marcos along the lakeside trail	– Not a lot of restaurants, cafes, and bars here – You’re very isolated – No options for budget travelers

How to Get to Jaibalito

• Take the public boat – 15 minutes from Panajachel – Q20 – Q25 (US$3)
• Walk along a trail from Santa Cruz, Tzununa, and San Marcos

Best Budget Accommodations in Jaibalito

There are a couple of budget places in Jaibalito. One is Art and Coffee, but the reviews are not very good.

Best Mid-Priced Accommodations in Jaibalito

10. Hotel La Casa del Mundo

LOWEST PRICE: US$70 | BREAKFAST: Not included | RATING: 9.2 (620+ Reviews)

Hotel La Casa del Mundo is one of my three favorite places to stay in Lake Atitlan. I adore this hotel and I was so sad to leave after one night.

The hotel is built on the side of a hill and at several levels. There are little terraces hidden away here and there around the hotel grounds, where you can lie in a hammock or a deck chair and just gaze lazily at the breathtaking views of the lake and volcanoes. When I stayed here, it felt like I wasn’t in Guatemala but instead on Lake Como in Italy.

The hotel has kayaks for rent and a sauna. You can go down to the shore and swim as well.

Casa del Mundo has rooms with shared baths as well as rooms with private baths. All rooms have views of the lake.

I stayed in the room with a shared bath. I loved the room, but my one complaint was how far away the bathroom was.

The food was excellent!

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

Best Places to Stay in Tzununa

Situated between San Marcos and Jaibalito, Tzununa is another small village with gorgeous views of the lake and volcanoes.

A couple of years ago, this village wasn’t on most travelers’ radars. But as San Marcos became more and more crowded, the hippie ex-pat crowd moved over to Tzununa and started opening businesses like yoga retreats, restaurants, and all kinds of new-age businesses geared toward mind and body health.

There are a few house rentals but few hotels and no hostels yet.

I highly recommend staying in Jaibalito.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Tzununa

PROS	CONS
– One of the BEST hotels on the lake can be found here – Drop-dead gorgeous views – Peace and quiet – More of a local feel – But also a bit of a hippy vibe but not overwhelming like San Marcos – Great yoga retreat here	– Not a lot of restaurants, bars, or businesses geared toward tourism – No budget options

How to Get to Tzununa

You can get to Tzununa by public boat from Panachel or other villages on the lake.

It takes 30 to 40 minutes to walk here from San Marcos.

Best Budget Accommodations in Tzununa

Tzununa is a small village without a lot of budget options. The best one in this small town is Bambu Guest House – perhaps one of the best budget hotels at Lake Atitlan.

11. Bambu Guest House

LOWEST PRICE: US$19 (dorm) US$45 (private)  BREAKFAST: Not Included | RATING: 9.2/10 (36 Reviews)

If you’re looking for a budget option in a quiet village without the party hostel vibe, check out Bambu Guest House. The lodging has stunning views of the lake and a friendly and warm atmosphere.

There are both dorm rooms and private rooms with private baths. Some rooms have a balcony and views of the lake. The beds are comfortable.

The terrace is fabulous for just hanging out in a hammock or working online.

Good food.

The only drawback is that as it’s on the side of a hill, getting there is a bit of an uphill hike. But you can hire a tuk-tuk in town. And being so high up makes the views even better.

Bambu is the highest-rated hostel in Lake Atitlan.

I really loved Bambu, so much so that I extended my stay to a month. What a beautiful place to stay at, and such kind, helpful and friendly kitchen staff who make delicious food and smoothies. Shad and Filipe are great, super friendly and always make sure you are happy. Would definitely recommend this place. A bonus is my dorm bed was super comfy. What a delight to wake up every morning and see that gorgeous sunrise from the bedroom window! The dorms even have a large terrace with table, seating, hammock and plug point from which to work or hang out with a book. There’s even space enough to do yoga. The place also has 2 adorable and friendly cats.

Megan from South Africa (READ MORE REVIEWS)

READ REVIEWS & BOOK YOUR STAY: Booking.com | Agoda

Best Mid-Priced Accommodations in Tzununa

There aren’t many choices in Tzununa. But the one you have is the highest-rated place to stay in Lake Atitlan – El Picnic Atitlan.

12. El Picnic Atitlan

LOWEST PRICE: US$149| BREAKFAST: Included | RATING: 9.8 (224+ Reviews)

El Picnic Atitlan may be THE coolest place to stay in all of Guatemala.

By far!

It’s also my top 3 places to stay in Lake Atitlan.

Like all the best places to stay at the lake, it has million-dollar views of the lake and the volcanoes. But what makes this place even more special is how El Picnic is designed.

Each room is in a two-story bungalow. On the first floor is the bathroom, which is outside—I know this sounds crazy and maybe awful, but reviewers rave about it. You can take a shower and go to the bathroom while looking at the lake. The top floor is a tent room and balcony where you can sit and enjoy the sunrise or a glass of wine and enjoy the sunset.

Two more bonuses: (1) Good food (2) great owners.

Just be warned that you might find yourself wanting to stay longer than you intended.

“I will give my most objective opinion. The place is simply incredible, it is comfortable, cozy, the rooms have beautiful views of the lake, the facilities are very well maintained, they pay attention to every detail and the attention of the owners is exceptional, the food related is perfect since it is balanced and delicious, they really make you feel at home. Johan and Gabi are definitely the best hosts for this place.”

Daniel from Mexico (READ MORE REVIEWS)

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PRO TRAVEL TIP: Wondering whether to bring a suitcase or backpack? I recommend using a backpack–easiest to carry across the cobblestoned streets, up and down stairs, and over rough terrain. Plus! If you’re doing the Acatenango hike, El Mirador hike, or the Xela-Lake Atitlan hike, you’ll need a backpack. Check out this Guatemala packing list for some great ideas!

Best Places to Stay in San Marcos

When you first arrive in San Marcos, you’ll find yourself walking down a very narrow alley lined with vegan restaurants, bars, yoga studios, and pricey health food stores. Except for a few locals selling souvenirs and working in restaurants, you’ll mostly come across young hipsters and old hippies from New York or Paris or Tel Aviv. You might wonder if you’re still in Guatemala.

Once you leave the maze-like alleyways, you’ll find yourself facing a wide busy street. It feels like you’ve stepped back into Guatemala. Before you can even blink, a tuk-tuk driver will have pulled up in front of you asking where you want to go. This is where the locals live.

The further you walk away from the lake, the steeper the roads become. Along the roads are boutique Airbnbs and hotels hidden behind high walls and gates.

Some people love San Marcos. Other people not so much. If you want to get away from it all, this is not the place for you. If you want to be surrounded by western culture, western conveniences, and healthy living, this is a great place. You can find any business geared toward homeopathy and alternative medicine.

Be warned that there are lots of drugs and thus, crime has become an issue in San Marcos. I was warned by my Airbnb host not to walk alone at night. Take a tuk-tuk.

Pros & Cons of Staying in San Marcos

PROS	CONS
– Good budget accommodations – Good luxury accommodations – Lots of yoga retreats – Convenient – Restaurants, bars, cafes, and tour operators – A good place to do yoga and meditation and other kinds of similar practices – There are Spanish schools – Amazing views—one of the volcanoes feels really close – Healthy food	– You don’t get the local feel of Guatemala – Expensive – There was a problem with crime when I was there—I was told not to walk alone at night as there were many robberies going on at the time – Not a lot of accommodations in the middle price range

How to Get to San Marcos

• Public boat – 25 minutes – Q20-Q25 (US$3)
• By foot from Tzununa

Best Budget Accommodations in San Marcos

13. Casa Ahau

AVERAGE PRICE: US$10/dorm & $20/private room| KITCHEN: Yes | BREAKFAST: Included | RATING: 9.1 (550+ Reviews)

I had a hard time finding a really good hostel in Lake Atitlan. Many had bad reviews and the ones I stayed in did not impress me.

Casa Ahau is probably one of the better hostels on the lake — it’s the highest-rated hostel in Lake Atitlan. The people who run it are friendly and helpful.

It has dorm rooms and private rooms. I like that the dorm rooms have huge windows bringing in loads of sunlight and don’t have bunk beds. There’s a kitchen and some good social areas to hang out in and meet other travelers. Another thing that I love is that it comes with a FREE breakfast.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive hostel or hotel, Casa Ahau is one of the BEST budget places to stay in Lake Atitlan.

I loved my stay at Casa AHAU. This hostel has a community esque vibe where everyone eats a delicious breakfast together in the morning and gets the opportunity to connect. The roof top is perfect for hanging out and practicing yoga and the rooms are comfortable, clean and cosy. Facilities are fairly basic but all you need and there are so many nice little touches to the place. Above everything the owner and staff are lovely and really made my stay special. Gracias AHAU

Alice from the U.K. (READ MORE REVIEWS)

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Best Mid-Priced & Luxury Accommodations in San Marcos

14. Eagle’s Nest Atitlan

LOWEST PRICE: US$95 – $115 | ALL INCLUSIVE | RATING: 8.2 (140+ Reviews)

If you’re wondering where to stay in Lake Atitlan which combines yoga, breathtaking views, and chill, laidback vibe, stay at the famous Eagle’s Nest.

The price of your stay includes all meals, yoga classes, and other community-based events. Besides yoga, there’s a tamascal (Maya sauna) and lots of dance parties.

Eagle’s Nest has both dorm rooms and a variety of private rooms. Some rooms come with their own kitchen. All have views of the lake.

“Delicious food, great place to meet people, amazing views for yoga, events going on. It’s easy to add on an extra day…”

Sarah from the U.S. (READ MORE REVIEWS)

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15. Baraka Atitlan

LOWEST PRICE: US$154 | KITCHEN: Yes | RATING: 8.8/10 (60+ Reviews)

The best place to stay in San Marcos is probably Baraka Atitlan. It’s not cheap but you get your own apartment with gorgeous views of the lake and volcano.

Located about a 10- to 15-minute walk from San Marcos, the apartments have access to a private beach with a dock. You can swim or kayak off the beach. The water in this part of the lake is relatively clean.

The apartments are fantastic. There are several types to choose from including studio and 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments. Each place has a fully equipped kitchen with a stove, oven, refrigerator, etc. They’re cutely furnished and decorated – every detail seems to be chosen intentionally to make the place cozy. It feels like home. Some apartments have stunning floor-to-ceiling windows with unforgettable views of the lake. Others have a private terrace with outdoor seating and views of the lake.

Several guests have complained about the inconsistent hot water and unstable WiFi.

Amazing views from every angle of the place. The whole wall of glass opens up, so when the weather is good, it’s really amazing to have it open air. It rained a lot while I was there, and it was the most peaceful experience watching the clouds roll in and getting the breeze off the lake. The daybed against the window overlooking the lake is just divine. I could lounge there all day. There are two very cute and friendly cats that will try to get in! It’s really quiet and the bed was amazing. Most comfortable place I stayed in Guatemala. I arrived early as someone was cleaning the apartment and she was extremely nice and stowed my bag while she finished up. A nice touch you don’t often get in an airbnb type place.

Kyle from the U.S. (READ MORE REVIEWS)

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Best Places to Stay in San Juan

Oh, lovely San Juan! How I absolutely adore you!

Why oh why are there not more places to stay here?

I have to admit that the lack of accommodations and thus the lack of foreigners is probably a good thing. It’s probably why the locals have not lost control of their town like they have in San Marcos and San Pedro.

The area around the shore is full of businesses catering to tourists. BUT it’s done in a very classy way. It’s still quite pretty. The souvenir shops are more upscale than in Panajachel—beautiful textiles like handbags, rugs, shawls, etc. and my favorite works of art. You can spend a couple of hours visiting the art galleries here. The only sad thing is that everyone pretty much paints the same subject matter.

San Juan has some nice views of the lake but the views are missing the volcanoes.

Pros & Cons of Staying in San Juan

PROS	CONS
– Good budget accommodations – Local feel – Easy to get to San Pedro – Restaurants and cafes – A great coffee shop – The views are lovely but you don’t get views of the volcanos – Good to stay here if doing the sunrise Indian Nose hike	– Not many accommodation options – Missing views of the volcanoes

How to get to San Juan

• Public boat from Panajachel – just be aware that the boat from Panajachel passes by San Juan without stopping. It then stops in San Pedro and on the way back to Panajachel, it stops in San Juan. Some people mistakenly get off in San Pedro.
• By foot or tuk-tuk from San Pedro

Best Budget Accommodation in San Juan

16. Chirris Hostel

AVERAGE PRICE: US$10/dorm; US$27/room| SHARED KITCHEN: Yes | RATING: 9.7 (49+ Reviews)

I wish this hostel had existed when I was at Lake Atitlan. Chirris Hostel is probably the best one around. It’s brand new, and just opened in 2022, so everything is new and clean.

If you want to stay here, book early. It’s a small place and it’s becoming very popular as the word is getting out about how wonderful the place is and how wonderful the owners are.

The hostel comes with 4-bed dorm rooms, private rooms with shared bathrooms, and private rooms with private baths as well as a kitchen with a microwave, fridge, and sink.

The location is excellent! Not far from the pier.

I was excited to read the reviews that said the WiFi was good for working online. THAT is something I struggled to find while I was at Lake Atitlan.

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ALTERNATIVE HOSTEL & HOTEL: Eco Hotel Mayachik

Best Places to Stay in San Pedro

San Pedro is one of those places that has a lot going for it but also a lot going against it. My feelings about it are mixed.

I stayed in an Airbnb here. The price was perfect. The views from my balcony were stunning albeit with no volcanoes. But the scorpions… Well, they and I did not get along. But insects are common all over Lake Atitlan.

San Pedro is one of the bigger towns on the western shore of the lake. It’s full of tourists, backpackers, and language students, but it’s also full of drugs, bars, discos, and loud music!

The narrow alleyways are like a maze. I found myself constantly getting lost.

Lots of restaurants, bars, tour operators, hostels, hotels, Airbnbs, and language schools.

Overall, It’s not a particularly pretty town—every local I met seemed so sad and every building so grey and neglected.

That being said, San Pedro is one of the better places for digital nomads who want to stay for a while. It’s got a lot of amenities, so it’s an easier place in which to make your home.

Pros & Cons of Staying in San Pedro

PROS	CONS
– Affordable – lots of budget accommodations & lots of mid-priced hotels – Plenty of hostels – Affordable long-term rentals – Convenient – Tour operators – Over 4 language schools – The locals and foreigners are a bit more mixed than in San Marcos – Good to stay here if doing the sunrise Indian Nose hike – For those who want to party, it’s a pro	– Can be noisy from the bars and clubs – Party atmosphere (it can be pro and con) – Not the prettiest town

How to get to San Pedro

You can take a public boat from Panajachel for Q20-Q25 – it should take 30 minutes

You ca take a tuk-tuk from San Juan

Best Budget Accommodations in San Pedro

17. Mikaso Hotel

LOWEST PRICE: US$38| SHARED KITCHEN: Yes | RATING: 8.6 (700+ Reviews)

San Pedro has a reputation for being a party town, but you can avoid the noise and the parties by staying at Mikaso Hotel. It’s a quiet hotel that makes you feel far removed from the craziness of San Pedro.

The other thing reason you should stay at Mikaso is its location. It’s right on the shore of the lake. There’s a dock out in front where you can swim or kayak. They’ve got a terrace where you can sit and enjoy the lake views.

The hotel now states on Booking.com that their WiFi is fiber optic! Wow! I hope this is true because one of the biggest weaknesses of traveling and working in Guatemala is the internet.

The rooms are clean and comfortable for the hotel’s price point. Some rooms have gorgeous views of the lake—waking up in the morning to the sun rising over Lake Atitlan is one thing you should not miss during your visit.

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18. Sababa Resort

LOWEST PRICE: US$32/dorm; US$128/room | BREAKFAST: Included | RATING: 7.9 (680+ Reviews)

For those of you who want to be immersed in the party atmosphere of San Pedro, then Sababa Resort is where you want to stay.

THIS place has got it all. It’s got BOTH dorm rooms, large private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, and suites. There’s also a restaurant and bar.

The 3 fabulous features of Sababa that I love are its lake views, swimming pool, and FREE breakfast!

The rooms are comfortable and stylish. The dorm rooms also look stylish, but they lack practical features like fans, bedside outlets, privacy curtains, and bedside lights.

 Sadly, if you like your peace and quiet, don’t stay here.

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Best Places to Stay on the East Side of Lake Atitlan

There are 3 towns on the east side of the lake with wonderful accommodations: Santa Catarina, San Antonio Polopo, and Toliman.  Tourists rarely stay in them or even visit them. They’re not accessed by public boat like the villages on the north and west side. Instead, you need to hire a tuk-tuk. There aren’t many hotels on this side either.

The lack of tourists can be a good thing, though, as it allows the locals to preserve their culture and way of life. If you’re interested in learning more about the people of Guatemala, these towns are a great place to stay in.

One thing you can find here, though, is stunning views of the lake and the volcanoes even if you’re on a budget.

The villages are also home to some of the lake’s most impressive handicrafts. Check out my guide on Lake Atitlan to see how you can find them.

Pros & Cons of Staying on the East Side of the Lake

PROS	CONS
– Great views of the lake – Very local – San Antonio is famous for its ceramics – Less touristy – Some great accommodations at terrific prices – Beautiful views of the volcanos	– Need to take a tuk-tuk – No public boats – Not many restaurants – Not many options for accommodations

How to Get to the East Side of Lake Atitlan

You need to take a tuk-tuk, public truck, or take an expensive private boat. There are no public boats (lanchas).

Best Budget Accommodations

19. Hotel Terrazes Del Lago

LOWEST PRICE: US$40 | BREAKFAST: Not included | RATING: 8.5 (360+ Reviews)

The best budget option on the east side of the lake is in San Antonio at Hotel Terrazes Del Lago. Next to the shore, the hotel has got the usual beautiful views of the lake.

As the name of the hotel suggests, Hotel Terrazes has lots of terraces where you can sit and enjoy the view.

The rooms are nice and comfortable with floor-to-ceiling windows, stone walls, and interesting décor.

There’s a private beach area and a restaurant.

If you’re looking for a hotel out of the tourist zone and at a good price, then this is a good value.

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Best Mid-Priced Hotel on the East Side of Lake Atitlan

One of the best mid-priced hotels at Lake Atitlan can be found in Santa Catarina Palopo: Villa Santa Catarina.

20. Villa Santa Catarina

LOWEST PRICE: US$86 | BREAKFAST: Not included | RATING:8.9 (830+ Reviews)

This is a beautiful but out-of-the-way hotel located in Santa Catalina, about 15 minutes by tuk-tuk from Panajachel.

The hotel has loads of charm and loads of stunning views of both the lake and the mountains in the back of the hotel.

The hotel has a pool, hot tub, and restaurant.

The rooms are comfortable, clean, and cozy. I like how they’re decorated. For lake views, expect to pay over US$100.

Loads of peace and quiet.

To get to other villages around the lake, you need to take a tuk-tuk to Panajachel and then a boat.

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Best Luxury Accommodations

Two of the best places to stay at Lake Atitlan can be found in Santa Catarina Palopo: Hotel Casa Palopo and Tzampoc Resort.

21. Hotel Casa Palopo

LOWEST PRICE: US$229  BREAKFAST: Included | RATING: 8.5/10 (100+ Reviews)

The most beautiful and luxurious place to stay in Lake Atitlan is Hotel Casa Palopo. It feels a bit like you’re on a lake in Italy.

Perched on the side of a hill, this boutique hotel has unparalleled views of the lake and volcanoes. There are 2 swimming pools including an infinity pool.

The rooms are beautifully decorated with Guatemalan works of art and traditional textiles. Rooms come with a balcony but not all have views of the lake.

Service is impeccable.

Hotel Casa Palopo is such a fabulous hotel that you probably won’t want to leave to explore the rest of the lake.

“Oh my goodness, what can’t I say about this property? It was a magical stay. The beauty of the property, the views of the lake and volcanoes, the attention to very single detail and the professionals who made our stay feel like home were unforgettable. We will absolutely be back. If staying in Lake Atitlan you MUST stay at this incredibly special property.”

Natalie from the U.S. (READ MORE REVIEWS)

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22. Tzampoc Resort Atitlan (Santa Catarina)

LOWEST PRICE: US$200 | BREAKFAST: Included | RATING: 9.1 (92+ Reviews)

People stay at Tzampoc Resort for its stunning views of the lake and volcanoes, the pool and jacuzzi, and the wonderful service.

This beautiful resort is small with only 6 comfortable rooms. Some rooms have a terrace and fireplace. All have great views.

The highlight is the swimming pool. There’s also a firewood sauna, bar, and restaurant. The hotel grounds and garden are gorgeous.

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