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Lake Atitlan, Panajachel

Panajachel is Lake Atitlán’s most popular traveler town. Set along the northern shores of the lake, the setting is here is gorgeous—think blue water, forested mountains, and volcanoes. The town’s culture mixes North American, European and Central American influences.

Lake Atitlan, Panajachel
Lake Atitlan, Panajachel
Lake Atitlan, Panajachel
Lake Atitlan, Panajachel
Lake Atitlan, Panajachel
Lake Atitlan, Panajachel
Lake Atitlan, Panajachel
Lake Atitlan, Panajachel
Lake Atitlan, Panajachel
Lake Atitlan, Panajachel

More about Lake Atitlan, Panajachel

Panajachel was one of Central America’s main hippie hotspots during the 1960s and 1970s. Over time it has integrated into Guatemala’s mainstream tourism circuit, and these days is popular with Westerners and Guatemalans alike.

Prior to the arrival of travelers, Panajachel was a small Mayan village. Early in the Spanish conquest, Franciscans had a church and monastery in Panajachel—from here they launched regional conversion campaigns in other indigenous villages. Most of the old village is gone these days, having been taken over by fairly nondescript buildings. The setting here is spectacular enough.

Pana, as locals know it, is one of the most developed towns along Lake Atitlán. It has good accommodations, some of which are set just outside town, and a smattering of tasty restaurants. There are garden cafés where you can enjoy fresh fruit smoothies, as well as upscale options that serve excellent international cuisine. Pana is also a great place to shop for handicrafts. Stalls line Calle Santander, the town’s main street, and sell all manner of goods. Bargaining is encouraged.

During the weekends, residents of Guatemala City make their way to Pana to party. Appropriately, the city has a fair share of bars and dance floors. Some places have mellow bohemian atmospheres, while others host live bands and turned-up dance parties.

The Reserva Natural Atitlán is located just outside town. Set on a former coffee farm, this nature reserve offers travelers a number of attractions, including a butterfly farm, zip line, lakeside beach, waterfalls, nature trails, and hanging bridges. The trails here run through thick foliage and offer the possibility to spot monkeys and small mammals.

The lake and surrounding hillsides offer up all kinds of recreational activities. Pana’s public beach is fairly clean and fine for swimming. Kayaks can be rented and paddled out into the lake—try to avoid doing so in the late afternoon, when the winds known locally as Xocomil come blowing in.

Hiking trips can be arranged to the San Pedro Volcano or in the mountains surrounding town. Going with a guide is definitely recommended. Mountain biking, rock climbing, and rappelling can also be arranged.

Lake Atitlan, Panajachel HIGHLIGHTS

Moments to look forward to

10 days | $$

Friends Vacation Exploring Mayan Ruins

I think efforts are being made, and change can be slow. People are aware of the problems of pollution in the air and lake.
Friends Vacation Exploring Mayan Ruins
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Chichicastenango Tour HD - GA
Chichicastenango

Chichicastenango Tour HD - GA

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
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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
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5 days | $$$

Guatemala's Gems of Nature

Take yourself on an amazing journey –– collect precious memories throughout the visually striking nation of Guatemala. The beauty of Lake Atitlan and history of Antigua awaits.
Guatemala's Gems of Nature
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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
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Accommodations

Incredible Stays

Porta Hotel del Lago
Porta Hotel del Lago
Porta Hotel del Lago
Porta Hotel del Lago

The resort is set near the shores of Lake Atitlán in Panajachel. The hotel’s location is unbeatable, as is the level of service and kinds of amenities that are offered here.

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Posada Don Rodrigo Atitlan
Posada Don Rodrigo Atitlan
Posada Don Rodrigo Atitlan
Posada Don Rodrigo Atitlan

This hotel is located in the town of Panajachel, which lies along the northern shores of Lake Atitlán. It has clean, spacious rooms and beautiful views of the lake.

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Hotel Regis
Hotel Regis
Hotel Regis
Hotel Regis

The hotel is located in Panajachel. It is easily accessible and has a nice garden and spa area.

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Hotel Atitlán
Hotel Atitlán
Hotel Atitlán
Hotel Atitlán

The hotel is set along the shores of Lake Atitlan in the town of Panajachel. The setting is absolutely beautiful and the hotel has quiet, spacious rooms.

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Hotel Dos Mundos
Hotel Dos Mundos
Hotel Dos Mundos
Hotel Dos Mundos

The hotel is located one block from shores of Lake Atitlán in the town of Panajachel. Is a quiet and comfortable oasis in the heart of Panajachel.

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Hotel Tolimán
Hotel Tolimán
Hotel Tolimán
Hotel Tolimán

This hotel lies near one of the most beautiful lakes in Guatemala. Its swimming pool, restaurant, and hammocks wait for you just off the shores of Lake Atitlán.

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Selina Atitlan Guatemala

Surround yourself with the beauty of Guatemala’s Lake Atitlan – and some new friends. The hotel is ideally situated, and offers a variety of room configurations, and plenty of access to outdoor adventures. Explore nature, dance by the lake, indulge in morning yoga with stunning views, prepare meals with market fresh ingredients, make new friends, and more!

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Rancho Grande Inn
Rancho Grande Inn
Rancho Grande Inn
Rancho Grande Inn

The Resort is centrally located in the town of Panajachel. This hotel has cabin-style accommodations, a small swimming pool, and super tasty breakfast.

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