Guatemala · Village Tours

Visit the Mayan Towns Around Lake Atitlan on a 2-days Tour from Guatemala City

2 Days Round trip from Pickup service provided in Guatemala City. Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Travel from Guatemala City to Lake Atitlán through the scenic highlands
  • 02 Boat ride across the lake to colorful San Juan La Laguna
  • 03 Learn about natural fabric dyeing, medicinal herbs, and artisanal chocolate
  • 04 Enjoy free time in Panajachel by the lake
  • 05 Visit Santa Catarina Palopó and its traditional Mayan textiles
  • 06 Take a scenic hike to San Antonio Palopó
  • 07 Admire views of Lake Atitlán and its three volcanoes
  • 08 Private transportation and certified guide included

Discover the beauty, culture, and living traditions of Lake Atitlán on this 2-day journey from Guatemala City. Travel through the Guatemalan highlands to Panajachel, then cross the lake by boat to San Juan La Laguna, where you’ll experience local artistry, ancestral natural dyeing techniques, medicinal herbs, and artisanal chocolate.

On day two, continue exploring the lakeside villages of Santa Catarina Palopó and San Antonio Palopó, known for their traditional Mayan culture, colorful textiles, and beautiful lake views. With scenic landscapes, cultural encounters, and time to enjoy Panajachel, this tour offers a memorable introduction to the towns around one of Guatemala’s most iconic lakes.

Discover the beauty, culture, and living traditions of Lake Atitlán on this 2-day journey from Guatemala City.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Guatemala City, Atitlan, San Juan La Laguna
Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Guatemala City

We will depart from your hotel in Guatemala City. The road to the Lake is full of agriculture and Mayan towns, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the mesmerizing views through the highlands.

Panajachel

As soon as you arrive at the picturesque town of Panajachel the experience starts. Our boat will be ready to take you to the first Lake Town of San Juan La Laguna, a place full of colors, culture, and tradition.

San Juan La Laguna

Explore the charming town of San Juan La Laguna, where culture and tradition thrive. Learn the ancestral techniques of natural fabric dyeing, visit a medicinal herbs garden, and discover the craftsmanship behind fine artisanal chocolate at a local factory. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the town’s great local restaurants, surrounded by the beauty and authenticity of Lake Atitlán. A perfect blend of culture, flavor, and tradition!

Lake Atitlan

Enjoy an evening boat ride back to Panajachel with the stunning views of the Lake and its 3 volcanoes 

Panajachel

Feel free to enjoy your afternoon at Panajachel, wander around in its coffee shops, bars, and live music restaurants, or just enjoy the sunset at the lake's dock street.

And then, head to your hotel to relax and get ready for day 2.

**Overnight Stay at Hotel Dos Mundos or Similar**

2
Day 02

Panajachel

The second day will start with a delicious breakfast at your hotel. You will be able to appreciate the beautiful views of Lake Atitlan and get ready to visit our first town: Santa Catarina Palopò.

Santa Catarina Palopo

Santa Catarina Palopò is characterized because its inhabitants use traditional Mayan clothing. This wardrobe is full of colors, figures, and great ancestral and cultural significance. It is a quiet town, and we are sure that you will love to buy souvenirs of the textiles from this place to take home.

San Antonio Palopo

Take a scenic 30-minute hike from Santa Catarina Palopó to the charming town of San Antonio Palopó. This tiny, picturesque village offers breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán and the perfect spot for an iconic photo on its artisanal dock. A must-visit for nature and photography lovers!

Guatemala City

We will leave the Lake Atitlan area heading to Guatemala City where we will take you to the lobby of your hotel safe and sound. Thank you for traveling with us!

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Pickup service provided in Guatemala City. 3 cities · 2 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private transportation
  • Certified Tour Guide
  • Boat ride to San Juan La Laguna
  • Guided tour to Santa Catarina and San Antonio Palopó
  • Guided tour in San Juan & Panajachel
  • Bottled water

What's Not Included

  • Gratuities
  • Meals
  • Hotel Accommodation

Know before you go

  • Not recommended for people with back problems
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • No public transportation nearby
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Infant seats unavailable
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Lodging in double accommodations. 1 double room for every 2 passengers. If you want a single room, please let us know for a quote.
  • We pick up all travelers at the motor lobby of their hotel or accommodation in Guatemala City

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Pickup service provided in Guatemala City.
Tour start
Pickup service provided in Guatemala City.
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 2 days finish where they began, in Pickup service provided in Guatemala City..

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