Three towering volcanoes stand around the shores of Lake Atitlan, casting their shadows over the towns and villages that share the lake's shores. Deep blue waters sparkle and contrast with forest green mountainsides -- a beauty that came into its present form several millennia ago and appears largely untouched. No high-rises pollute the panoramic views here and, in part due to that fact, Lake Atitlan remains a stunningly beautiful tourist destination in Guatemala.
Most travelers visiting Guatemala fly in to Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport. Lake Atitlan is a roughly three-hour bus ride west from the airport. Several bus companies run regular daily buses from Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan, many departing from Zona One. Travel between the lakeside towns and villages by boat or bus, both of which operate out of the various city or village centers and ports. Many travelers also choose to stay in Antigua, approximately 1.5 hours by car from Lake Atitlan's southern coast. If you take a bus from Antigua to the lake, you'll likely have to make a connection in Chimaltenango after catching your initial bus just west of Antigua's central market, which adds about an hour to your trip.
Lake Atitlan is surrounded by several small villages and towns on its shore, but the most popular and well-equipped are Santiago Atitlan and Panajachel. Panajachel is on the north end of the lake and provides the classic postcard views of the Atitlan Volcano smoldering across the lake, while Santiago Atitlan is the largest lake community and is closest to the main volcanoes in the area. The other villages -- which include San Pedro, San Marcos, Santa Cruz, Jaibalito and Santa Catarina Palopo -- have hotels and hostels. Panajachel is more popular with tourists, so you're more likely to find English-speaking hotel staff there.
The main attraction in the area is, of course, the lake. Boat tours stop off in smaller villages along on the lakeshore. Many companies offer diving gear rentals and diving tours of the lake. The Reserva Natural Atitlan in Panajachel features winding trails that offer views of spider monkeys, a butterfly display and swinging bridges, as well as zip lines. Rent rooms or camp within the park for an extended stay. On Fridays and Saturdays, head to Santiago Atitlan to see the arts and craft market and public weaving demonstrations.
The areas between the villages surrounding Lake Atitlan are some of the more dangerous in Guatemala. Exercise extreme caution when walking -- especially at night -- and always try to go out with groups of at least six people. Leave your valuables at home and do not resist robbery, as this can turn nonviolent crime into violent crime. Before your trip, contact the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City for up-to-date safety information about Lake Atitlan, as security threats change rapidly in the area. Be cautious when interacting with locals outside a public setting as some can be suspicious of foreigners.
