Lakes in Guatemala

Guatemala

Lakes formed the life-giving center of many of Guatemala's indigenous cultures. Mayan villages sprang up along the shores of Lake Atitlán and Lake Petén Itzá, and many have remained to this day. Lake Petén Itzá and Lake Izabal are two of the largest lakes in Guatemala. Lake Atitlán is one of the deepest lakes in Central America, and is famed far and wide for its intense beauty. Visit these lakes to hike around their legendary waters, and take a closer look at the traditional villages nearby. Take a moment to gaze across their placid surfaces at the mountains, jungles, and volcanoes that shape the scenery of Guatemala.

Lakes in Guatemala
Destinations

Guatemala Highlights

A curated look at the best Guatemala has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.

Lake Izabal

Lake Izabal

Fed by the Palochi River, Lake Izabál is the largest lake in Guatemala. In the forests surrounding the lake, visitors have the chance to see howler monkeys and spider monkeys. This forest is also a habitat for jaguars, but sightings are rare. If you’re interested in bird watching, bring binoculars and a camera. You’re bound to see a tremendous number of birds – the park has around 250 documented species.

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Lake Petén Itzá

Lake Petén Itzá

Just an hour away from the legendary Mayan ruins of Tikal, Lake Petén Itzá sports its own host of Mayan attractions. Visitors come to the lake to see the 27 Mayan sites that dot the shore and also visit the lake’s small islands. The lake itself offers many opportunities for swimming and tranquil boating expeditions.

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Trips to inspire

Featured Guatemala Trips

Browse our handpicked selection of Guatemala itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.

11 days | $$$

Volcanoes, Lakes, and Hot Springs

The rich history and beautiful sights blew us away! We got more than we expected from this Guatemala trip.

Volcanoes, Lakes, and Hot Springs
Guatemala
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14 days | $$

An Unforgettable Trip to Tikal

Visiting Tikal is a one of a kind experience that we recommend to anyone traveling to Guatemala. Our family is fairly active and this exploration type vacation was just what we wanted.

An Unforgettable Trip to Tikal
Guatemala
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13 days | $$$

The Colors & Culture of Guatemala

Don’t just take your family somewhere new, teach them about the world on a colorful expedition of Guatemala full of outdoor adventures, history, and cultural exchanges.

The Colors & Culture of Guatemala
Guatemala
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7 days | $$$

On the Shores of Atitlán

We were looking to celebrate my partner’s 50th birthday. Lake Atitlán blew our minds. It is one of the most beautiful places we've seen.

On the Shores of Atitlán
Guatemala
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9 days | $$$

We Dreamt. Then We Went.

When we told our family and friend that we were going to Guatemala, their first impression was your kidding. The country is not safe. Let me say we had a fantastic time from beginning to end of our trip. Guatemala has a lot to present and the country has a lot of history and the people are wonderful. I would come back again. In general I would say we had no issues with the Itinerary and the drivers of Anywhere were very professional and most of all kept us safe where ever we went. The hotels that we stayed were very nice and in safe location.

We Dreamt. Then We Went.
Guatemala
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8 days | $$$

We Journeyed Together

This had been a memorable family vacation for us. Guatemala is a beautiful country, and Anywhere welcomed us warmly from the moment we landed.

We Journeyed Together
Guatemala
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8 days | $$$

Lakeside Villages and Relaxation

My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed this lakeside getaway by Lake Atitlan. We stayed in amazing places and will be using Anywhere again as we explore more of Central America!

Lakeside Villages and Relaxation
Guatemala
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9 days | $$

A Wedding Celebration Made Better

Thank you for making my Wes and Ines's wedding so special! We were taken care of at all times and will return and only use your services!

A Wedding Celebration Made Better
Guatemala
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9 days | $$$

Colorful Cultural Adventures

Explore the world in vivid color when you make your way through Guatemala. Get outdoors, enjoy cultural exchanges, learn something new. Sample the best of Guatemala now!

Colorful Cultural Adventures
Guatemala
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5 days | $$$

Magical Sunsets of Lake Atitlán

I would recommend this trip to others from the heart! Our tour guide Leonel was just perfect! He’s super passionate about his job and went above and beyond out expectations! We fell in love with Guatemala’s culture, its people and the nature! Unforgettable experience!!

Magical Sunsets of Lake Atitlán
Guatemala
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12 days | $$$

Heart of The Mayan World

I would warn them about the deceptive practices of Casa Azul though about the stocking and charges of the alcohol in the fridge. No warning at check in. No signage on fridge. Not locked. No tally sheet. No warning or heads up by Anywhere. I have never had to pay for alcohol before. ($92. U.S.) There was a store a few doors away. My only complaint about this hotel. I would stay there again. I just wouldn't be tricked twice.

Heart of The Mayan World
Guatemala
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8 days | $$$

Enchanting Highlights of Guatemala

Guatemala was an enchanting country to visit, and Anywhere presented a fun-filled, scenic, and cultural experience beyond our expectations.

Enchanting Highlights of Guatemala
Guatemala
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6 days | $$$

This is the Jungle? Ohh La La!

Take the children on an exciting adventure without sacrificing your comfort. Spend time outdoors, then enjoy high thread count linens, swimming pools, and private transportation.

This is the Jungle? Ohh La La!
Guatemala
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13 days | $$$

Active Couple Mayan Culture Explorer

We loved GUATEMALA. This was our first visit to Central America and found the country intriguing, complex, and exciting. Hope to visit Central America and South America in the future. Would definitely recommend traveling to Guatemala for friends and family.

Active Couple Mayan Culture Explorer
Guatemala
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15 days | $$$

Live, Laugh, Love in Guatemala

Rediscover your passion for adventure and each other when you make your way through beautiful Guatemala. Sample a little of everything –– from ruins to cuisine.

 Live, Laugh, Love in Guatemala
Guatemala
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