Things To Do
in San Juan La Laguna

San Juan La Laguna sits on the southwestern shores of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, a tranquil town known for its vibrant murals and community cooperatives. The town sits on rolling hills with coffee farms, colorful houses, and a slow pace that invites conversations with locals. Visitors discover traditional Mayan weaving, cacao and coffee culture, and art studios that foster Indigenous artistry.

It’s an ideal base for lake excursions, hillside viewpoints, and peaceful mornings by the water.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in San Juan La Laguna and settle into your accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the vibrant colors and local art that adorns the streets. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Guatemalan dishes.

afternoon
:

Join a guided walking tour of the area, learning about the history and culture of the indigenous Tz'utujil community. Visit local textile cooperatives to witness the intricate process of weaving and perhaps purchase some handmade souvenirs. Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the stunning views of Lake Atitlán.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the lake to watch the breathtaking display of colors reflected on the water. Enjoy a dinner featuring local specialties while listening to live music from nearby restaurants. Conclude the evening with a stroll along the lakeshore, absorbing the peaceful atmosphere.

day 2
Art and Culture Immersion
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local art gallery, where you can see works by Guatemalan artists and perhaps participate in a painting workshop. Engage with the artists to learn about their techniques and inspirations. Savor a hearty breakfast made with fresh, local ingredients.

afternoon
:

Take a boat ride to nearby villages, stopping at Santiago Atitlán to explore its rich culture and historical sites. Have lunch at a local spot, trying unique regional dishes. Return to San Juan La Laguna for a guided visit to a coffee plantation where you can taste fresh brews.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet evening with traditional music showcasing the local Maya culture. Dine at a restaurant that offers views of the lake, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the area under the stars. Reflect on the day's experiences while enjoying a special dessert made with local ingredients.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Cup of coffee$1-3
🛍️Local souvenir$2-20
🚖Taxi ride (short distance)$2-6
🏨Guesthouse per night$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich Maya culture and welcoming communities
  • Stunning lake views and photo opportunities
  • Limited nightlife and fewer luxury amenities
  • Occasional uneven terrain in towns and hills
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in San Juan La Laguna

Visit one of these nice places.

Mirador de San Juan

A hillside lookout offering sweeping views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes.

Calle de Murales (Colorful Calle)

A narrow street adorned with vibrant murals, colorful balconies, and textiles drying in the sun.

Lakeside Promenade by the Church

Waterfront scenes with boats, kayaks, and golden hour reflections on the water.

Plaza Central at Sunrise

Quiet morning light on the central square with traditional markets and local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Juan La Laguna

Guatemalan cuisine in San Juan La Laguna emphasizes corn, beans, and peppers, with Mayan influences and fresh coffee and cacao from nearby farms.

San Juan La Laguna Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pepian

A rich, spicy Guatemalan sauce served with meat or vegetables; commonly found in local eateries.

Must-Try!

Jocón

Herbed green chicken with a tomatillo-based sauce; pairs well with rice and tortillas.

Tamales

Steamed corn dough wrapped in plantain leaves with savory fillings; a common festival or market staple.

Tamal de manteca

Corn dough stuffed with pork or vegetables, steamed in banana leaves.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lakefront Market Stalls

Fresh corn tortillas, roasted corn on the cob, chuchitos and tamales, and fruit juices.

Local Sweets and Snack Stands

Sweet bread, atole-style drinks, roasted seeds and seeds-based snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Year-round warm days with cooler evenings near the lake; distinct dry and rainy seasons; mornings can be misty, especially in the higher hills.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and respect

Greet people with a friendly hola or buenos días; ask permission before taking photos of individuals.

Sacred spaces and dress

Dress modestly when visiting churches or Mayan ceremonial sites; avoid showing disrespect to sacred spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

San Juan La Laguna is generally safe for travelers, especially in town and on popular routes. Keep an eye on personal belongings in markets, use reputable transport, and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. If possible, travel with a companion and stay in well-reviewed guesthouses.

Tipping in San Juan La Laguna

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% in restaurants and small tips for guides or taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Cash (Quetzal) remains preferred; some places accept USD; many shops and eateries accept credit/debit cards for larger purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (Nov–Apr)

Clear skies, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for hiking, boating, and photography.

Rainy Season (May–Oct)

Periods of tropical showers in the afternoon; lush greenery and dramatic skies; bring a lightweight rain shell.

Nightlife Guide

San Juan La Laguna at Night

The nightlife in San Juan La Laguna is low-key, with intimate cafés and small cultural evenings featuring local music and storytelling rather than clubs or loud venues.

Hiking in San Juan La Laguna

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Tzankujil viewpoint hike

A popular hike from nearby villages offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes.

Village-to-village trails around Lake Atitlán

Longer hikes connecting towns with scenic overlooks, coffee farms, and lush forests.

Airports

How to reach San Juan La Laguna by plane.

La Aurora International Airport (GUA)

Guatemala City’s main international airport; from here, transfers to Lake Atitlán are available by bus, shuttle, or private car.

Getting Around

Walkability

Very walkable town center with compact streets; most attractions, markets, and cafés are within a short stroll. Some hills can be steep, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mayan communities (Kaqchikel and Tz'utujil)

Indigenous communities with strong weaving, farming, and artisan traditions; languages may include Kaqchikel and Tz'utujil alongside Spanish.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

A popular local pastime; informal games and matches can be observed in town squares on weekends.

Transportation

Traffic

Public buses and small vans connect villages around Lake Atitlán; roads can be winding and slow, especially during the rainy season. Boat transport is a common alternative between towns around the lake.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Juan La Laguna.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Ask for veggie-stuffed tortillas, beans, and rice; many eateries can adjust sauces to avoid meat stock.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is limited in San Juan La Laguna; basic care is available in nearby towns, with more extensive facilities in Sololá and Guatemala City. Carry a small first-aid kit and any prescription medicines you need.

Discover Guatemala

Read more in our Guatemala 2025 Travel Guide.

Guatemala Travel Guide