Guatemala Lakes

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Guatemala's Lake Atitlán may get all of the attention, but it's about time it started sharing the spotlight with the nation's other two lakes — Lake Izabal and Lake Petén Itzá, because each lake is absolutely stunning. So outside of summer camp, why would you choose to vacation at one of Guatemala's lakes? What is there to do after you've witnessed the beauty and bounty of these gorgeous bodies of water? Plenty! In fact, there's an activity for every type of traveller — whether you're seeking rest and relaxation or are a bonafide adrenaline junkie, we have you covered.

For starters, nearly all of these lakes have quaint Mayan villages scattered along their shores — in other words, you're steps away from an authentic experience and cultural tours. As for the sport scenery, it is downright amazing! You can mountain bike or kayak Lake Atitlán...you can also explore the volcanoes surrounding it. Lake Petén Itzá is close to the Mayan ruins of Tikal, so you can live out your secret childhood dreams of being a rugged adventurer who explores jungles and ancient cities. Fancy something a little more...academic? Lake Izabal is accompanied by an actual castle with a fascinating history.

Guatemala's lake destinations are excellent places for outdoor enthusiasts, water lovers, or travellers who are simply looking for a good place to relax — so, if you want to practice your photography or plein-air watercolour, they're exceptional for that too.

Destinations

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Not sure where you want to go yet? Get inspired and browse the best places to visit in Guatemala
Lake Peten Itza

Lake Peten Itza

Lake Petén Itzá is the top natural attraction in Guatemala’s Petén district. It has two main hubs for visitors — the towns of Flores and El Remate. Dense jungle and ruins from the Maya’s glory days surround the lake. El Remate is a popular stop on the way to Tikal National Park, where you can see the striking ruins of Temple I and Temple IV. There’s quite a collection of Maya sites in this part of northern Guatemala, including Yaxhá, Topoxté, Ceibal, Aguateca, and Uaxactún — to name just a few. These are beautiful sites where you can learn about the art and history of the Mayan civilization. For a closer look at the wildlife native to this part of Guatemala, you might stop at the zoo on Petencito Island, where wild pigs roam free. While you're here, you'll also get a good look at jaguars and ocelots. When you've had enough time in the sun, check out the subterranean attractions — interesting formations make the underground passageways of the Aktún Kan Caves especially haunting.
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Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlán’s choppy surface and volcano-studded surroundings have inspired countless legends, kept alive by the people who still live in the Mayan villages that surround the lake. Visitors should come here as much for the culture as the beaches and beautiful lakefront accommodations. You can choose from upscale accommodations that focus on yoga and wellness, or simple, down-to-earth accommodations that embrace the lake’s original reputation as a hippie backpacker destination. Local tours offer multiple ways to get around the lake — you might try a biking tour, a horseback riding tour, or a guided hike to the top of San Pedro Volcano. Hike on paths through nature reserves and coffee plantations and take in stunning vistas along the way. Tour the Mayan villages that surround the lakes and notice differences in traditional dress as you travel from village to village.
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Lake Izabal

Lake Izabal

Lake Izabal is the largest lake in Guatemala. National parks Biotopo Chocon Machacas and Bocas del Polochic Wildlife Preserve flank the lake — make sure to plan nature walks so you can see exotic plants and animals in the wild. Get the best view of the lake from the San Felipe Castle, a fortress built by the Spanish in the 17th century. Bocas del Polochic Wildlife Preserve has one foot on land, and one submerged in fertile lake beds — here you'll have the chance to explore unusual environments like mangroves and flooded forests. Its varied environment means you’ll get to see a huge variety of birds. Near the lake’s convergence with the Río Dulce lies the Biotopo Chocón Machacas, a reserve that protects a population of about 100 manatees. Visitors here often stay in the town of Río Dulce, named for the beautiful river that flows from the lake to the ocean. If you follow the Río Dulce east, you'll end up at Livingston, one of the most popular cities on Guatemala’s Caribbean coast.
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Destinations

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Take a look at other fascinating destinations to explore while you visit Guatemala.

Flores and Santa Elena
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Panajachel
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Santa Cruz La Laguna, Lake Atitlan
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Santiago Atitlan
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Santa Catarina Palopo, Lake Atitlan
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San Juan La Laguna, Lake Atitlan
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Livingston, Izabal
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San Marcos la Laguna, Lake Atitlan
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Solola
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Yaxhá
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San Pedro la Laguna, Lake Atitlan
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El Remate
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