Whenever I think about my favorite accommodations in Guatemala, I always remember the fantastic Lake Atitlan resorts and hotels I’ve stayed in. If you are planning your first trip to Guatemala and are spending a few days in Lake Atitlan, you’re in for a treat.
Lake Atitlan is beautiful, surrounded by four enchanting volcanoes and stunning views. In this post, I’m sharing the best places to stay in Lake Atitlan, from upscale Lake Atitlan resorts to casual hotels. I also included handy directions to help you understand how the lake’s towns are divided and how to navigate them easily. Why stay at one Lake Atitlan hotel when you could visit several?
Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet?
The Insurance companies I recommend are Hey Mondo and Safety Wing
Hey Mondo is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy.
Read my full travel insurance post here, where I go into detail about all companies.
Remember, each lake town is unique, giving you many options for where to stay in Lake Atitlan. You will find luxury Lake Atitlan Guatemala hotels, yoga retreats, and beautiful, local-run Lake Atitlan accommodation options.
For more information about where to eat, things to do, and more fun stuff, check out my Lake Atitlan Travel Guide. Also, if you need help traveling to Lake Atitlan, here is a How To Get From Antigua To Lake Atitlan Guide.
Quick Tip: Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.
Best Lake Atitlan Tours: Click here to check out the top Lake Atitlan tours
Best Lake Atitlan Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Lake Atitlan
Best Lake Atitlan Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Lake Atitlan
Lake Atitlan Where to Stay Ultimate Guide
Before deciding where to stay in Lake Atitlan, you must know which lake villages you want to visit. Whether you are joining a yoga retreat, taking Spanish lessons, or want to enjoy a vacation in a picturesque town around the lake, there’s a Lake Atitlan accommodation for every traveler. I’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Lake Atitlan, with options in several towns at various price points.
Santiago Atitlan
Santiago Atitlan is full of Guatemalan history—hire a local guide or take a solo tour through the town’s many cultural landmarks. Santiago is also well known for Maximon, which translates to “the grandfather.” The legend says this figure protects those who worship and respect him.
If you are looking for fancy Lake Atitlan resorts, Santiago Atitlan is not for you—however, many local options offer free WiFi.
Santiago Atitlan can be crowded, especially during the weekend when Guatemalan tourists visit the lake. Explore the town with a guide or a friend, as there are some unsafe areas and streets you don’t want to visit alone.
Quick Tip: View my full Central America packing guide here including a downloadable checklist. And check out my Central America Essentials shopping list here.
Casa González
This casual Lake Atitlan hotel has everything you need for a good night’s sleep: a comfortable bed, a TV, and a hot shower. The hotel is located in a safe area and is budget-friendly.
Booking.com rating: 8.8
Pescador Hotel PH
Pescador is the best place to stay in Lake Atitlan for Instagram-worthy photo spots. The hotel’s gardens are a top highlight and the perfect place to relax for several days.
Booking.com rating: 8.3
San Pedro La Laguna
While some know San Pedro La Laguna as a party destination, it’s also home to many excellent Spanish schools. There are many San Pedro La Laguna hotels, restaurants, cafes, and bars. For more info about how to get there and what to do, read my complete guide to San Pedro la Laguna—you’re welcome!
San Pedro Suite
This fully equipped apartment on the lake’s shore has free WiFi. There are incredible views, and you’ll have the place to yourself.
Booking.com rating: 8.9
Sababa Resort
Sababa Resort is relatively new among San Pedro La Laguna hotels. It has a restaurant, a pool, free WiFi, and beautiful facilities overlooking the lake. For an Instagrammable Lake Atitlan accommodation, this is the one.
Booking.com rating: 8.6
Tripadvisor rating: 4.0
AmiGos
While AmiGos isn’t fancy, it is the perfect place for travelers wanting a clean, quiet, and comfortable spot near the docks to meet other travelers.
Booking.com rating: 8.4
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5
Zoola San Pedro Atitlan
Zoola is one of the best Lake Atitlan Guatemala hotels for exciting nightlife. Ask around, and many will recommend Zoola as a top hostel for socialization.
Booking.com rating: 8.2
Tripadvisor rating: 3.5
San Marcos La Laguna
San Marcos La Laguna is an extraordinary place you must experience to believe. This is one of the best places to stay in Lake Atitlan if you’re interested in spiritualism. The town is home to many healers and people wanting to be healed. If you have any health, emotional, or spiritual issues, San Marcos will help you find the right therapist (and therapy) to heal.
San Marcos is also a great place to study yoga. Whether you want to do your Yoga Teacher Training or take a retreat, there are plenty of options. San Marcos is home to many Ashrams offering teacher training—local retreat centers provide training on everything from crystal healing to growing medicinal mushrooms.
Read my Guide to San Marcos Lake Atitlan for everything to know!
Anzan Atitlan
Anzan offers in-room hammocks, trendy decor, and fantastic lake and mountain views. You can also practice yoga or get a massage at this Lake Atitlan accommodation.
Booking.com rating: 9.4
Tripadvisor rating: 5.0
Lush Atitlan
Lush is one of the dreamiest hotels Lake Atitlan is home to. Whether you want a fun escapade with friends or a romantic honeymoon, Lush Atitlan is a beautiful place to stay.
Booking.com rating: 8.9
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5
Hostel Ahau
Backpackers searching for the best place to stay in Lake Atitlan on a budget will love this hostel. This affordable Lake Atitlan accommodation has common areas with WiFi and a shared kitchen, making it an excellent option.
Booking.com rating: 9.7
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5
Panajachel
For most people, Panajachel is a stopover on the way to another town. However, Panajachel offers some of the best places to stay in Lake Atitlan.
Porta Hotel del Lago
Porta Hotel del Lago is one of the biggest and best Lake Atitlan resorts for families, with a gym, pool, bar, restaurant, sauna, and lake views. Consider this Panajachel hotel for group trips with friends or family.
Booking.com rating: 8.5
Tripadvisor rating: 4.0
Hotel Villas Balam Ya
Are you wondering where to stay in Lake Atitlan for an immersive mountain experience? Balam Ya is located on a mountain and has a rustic look. It’s located slightly outside Panajachel (sorry!), but I couldn’t leave it out.
Booking.com rating: 9.2
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5
Selina Lake Atitlan
If you have traveled around Central America, you’re probably familiar with Selina hostels. Selina Lake Atitlan is the best hotel in Panajachel Guatemala for a fun, safe, clean space. Whether you want to enjoy a few relaxing days off or travel around working from your computer, Selina has something for everyone.
Booking.com rating: 8.4
Tripadvisor rating: 2.0
Hospedaje El Viajero
Hospedaje El Viajero is an affordable and comfortable Lake Atitlan hotel. This spot isn’t luxurious but ensures a cozy and restful night in.
Booking.com rating: 8.5
Tripadvisor rating: 4.0
Santa Catarina Palopo
This charming village is on most “Lake Atitlan Where to Stay” guides. Santa Catarina Palopo has recently become trendy for its colorful streets, pottery, and beautiful local textiles. This is the perfect formula to attract international artists. While you don’t want to miss Santa Catarina Palopo, it’s home to some of the most expensive Lake Atitlan Guatemala hotels.
Of the options below, only Villa Santa Catarina is in the village (sorry!)—I couldn’t exclude the other hotels because they’re stunning must-sees.
Villa Santa Catarina
Villa Santa Carina offers a classic “hacienda” look, which is lovely. Of course, the views of Lake Atitlan are beautiful as well.
Booking.com rating: 8.7
Tripadvisor rating: 4.0
Hotel Casa Palopo
In Santa Catarina Palopo, you will see many traditional garments for men and women that have been locally made with various shades of blue to emulate the lake’s tides and movement. The owners of Hotel Casa Palopo used gorgeous blue colors to adorn the property’s walls.
Booking.com rating: 8.7
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5
Tzampoc Resort
Tzampoc is one of my favorite Lake Atitlan resorts for its picturesque setting and fun activities. This resort offers family-friendly excursions like hiking and kayaking.
Booking.com rating: 9.0
Tripadvisor rating: 4.0
San Antonio Palopo
San Antonio Palopo is famous for its pottery—the style and methods have been passed through generations. While San Antonio isn’t the most popular choice for where to stay in Lake Atitlan, the art here is exceptional. The Lake Atitlan hotels in San Antonio Palopo aren’t as fancy as in other towns but are homely and welcoming.
Hotel Terrazas Del Lago
Hotel Terrazas has a simple infrastructure built on decks overlooking Lake Atitlan. The property is surrounded by trees, creating an intimate atmosphere. With breathtaking views, this ranks among the best hotels Lake Atitlan offers.
Booking.com rating: 8.6
Tripadvisor rating: 4.0
Hotel Nuestro Sueño
Hotel Nuestro Sueño is another simple yet comfortable Lake Atitlan accommodation pick. The price for this Lake Atitlan hotel is appropriate, considering how much you get for your money.
Booking.com rating: 8.7
Tripadvisor rating: 4.5
San Lucas Toliman
San Lucas Toliman is a local favorite that tourists often miss. Coffee lovers will enjoy visiting the town’s cooperatives and trying different coffees. San Lucas is a lovely town where visitors can walk around and dive into the refreshing Lake Atitlan waters.
Hotel Toliman
Walking around San Lucas Toliman, you will see nothing fancy about it. However, it’s beautiful and serene, and Hotel Toliman is no exception. The spacious rooms, welcoming common areas, and relaxing pool make it one of my picks for the best place to stay in Lake Atitlan.
Booking.com rating: 8.9
Tripadvisor rating: 5.0
Pink House
San Lucas Toliman’s Pink House is wrapping up this guide to the best Lake Atitlan resorts and hotels. The Pink House feels like a home-away-from-home, with comfortable furnishings in a convenient location.
Booking.com rating: 8.3
Lake Atitlan Travel Guide Planning
🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Lake Atitlan?
Yes! I have created a whole packing guide to Lake Atitlan which you can read here and you can also check out my packing list for Lake Atitlan on Amazon here.
🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in Lake Atitlan?
I strongly recommend using GottoGo. You can book almost all transport in the major tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.
🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Lake Atitlan?
I recommend either Viator or GetYour Guide. They have a lot of options!
👩⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?
I recommend using Heymondo for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out SafetyWing digital nomad insurance.
I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance here
✈️ Any flight recommendations?
WayAWay offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise Skyscanner or Expedia are my go-to flight searching platforms.
📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?
I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read here. I personally use GlocalMe as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.
With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using eitherAirhub or Alosim. Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.
🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?
The 3 best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.
🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?
I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here. I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack.
Best Lake Atitlan Resorts and Hotels: Final Thoughts
Many Lake Atitlan villages have a quiet, peaceful vibe to unwind—it’s also a great place to socialize with other travelers and spend several nights out with friends, letting loose. With all the fun things to do in this area, it’s unsurprising there are many Lake Atitlan accommodation options, from Lake Atitlan hotels to resorts and more.
Santiago Atitlan and San Antonio Palopo are the best places to stay in Lake Atitlan for affordable, casual accommodations. If you are a digital nomad like me who is curious about where to stay in Lake Atitlan with good WiFi, San Pedro, San Marcos, and Panajachel are your best bets. Vacationers with a flexible budget for their Lake Atitlan hotel will love Santa Catarina Palopo.
Regardless of your budget or travel plans, Lake Atitlan resorts and hotels don’t disappoint!
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