Headed to Lake Atitlan and interested in visiting San Juan la Laguna? Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this colorful village, from the best things to do in San Juan la Laguna, how to get there, and tips for visiting.
Of all the towns I visited in Lake Atitlan, San Juan la Laguna was my favorite. If you know me, you’ll know that I *love* visiting colorful places, and San Juan is full of color and art everywhere you look.
There are countless murals, art galleries, and even an Instagram-worthy umbrella street. But beyond all the colorful backdrops and photo ops, I fell in love with the culture here.
San Juan la Laguna is home to the Tz’utujil Maya people, and I loved that people were so open and enthusiastic about sharing their customs and traditions. I learned so much about Mayan culture, from weaving and fabric dyeing techniques, chocolate making, medicinal plants, and even stingless bees.
The town may be one of the smaller ones in Lake Atitlan, but there are plenty of interesting things to do in San Juan la Laguna, which makes it a worthwhile stop on your Guatemala itinerary.
I also loved that San Juan seemed more local and authentic than some of the larger towns around the lake. This is partially thanks to the fact that only Mayans are allowed to own property here, which prevents it from being Gringo-fied.
Here’s a complete guide to visiting this artsy Maya town, from the best things to do, how to get there, and tips for visiting!
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Where is San Juan la Laguna + How to Get There
San Juan la Laguna is located on the western shore of Lake Atitlan, right next to the popular backpacker town of San Pedro la Laguna.
The best way to reach San Juan la Laguna (and to travel around the towns on the lake in general) is via lancha, or water taxi. The lanchas are relatively easy to use, inexpensive, and are used by both tourists and locals to get around the lake
To get to San Juan, you’ll first have to travel to Panajachel, the main town on the lake. From here, you can hop on a boat to take you to Lake Atitlan. There are public lanchas that depart from the main dock in town, or you can hire a private boat as well.
It takes roughly 30-40 minutes to travel to San Juan from Panajachel and costs around Q25. If you travel from one of the other towns on the lake, the trip will be shorter and cheaper.
If you’re coming from San Pedro, another option is to hop in a tuk tuk to San Juan. This usually costs around Q15.
Since there is no road connecting the villages in Lake Atitlan, driving is not recommended.
A few things to know before visiting San Juan la Laguna…
- Bring cash: Cash is king in San Juan (and Lake Atitlan in general), so be sure you have some on hand! I don’t think I used a credit card at all while I was in Lake Atitlan. Most of the ATMs you will see in Lake Atitlan are the yellow 5B machines. The good news: they accept foreign debit cards, but know that the fees are exorbitantly high. Also don’t wait until the last minute to get cash, as the machines sometimes run out.
- Brush up on your Spanish: Knowing some basic Spanish is *very* helpful in San Juan la Laguna, as English is not commonly spoken here.
- Spanish is a second language for the locals: San Juan la Laguna is home to the Tz’utujil Maya people. So, Tz’utujil is their first language, and Spanish is usually their second language. Because of this, you’ll find that people speak Spanish more slowly and simply than in other regions, which means that it’s a fantastic opportunity to practice!
- Respect the locals: Remember that you’re a visitor, and it’s important to respect the local customs and rules. Do not photograph them without asking (especially important for children, as trafficking is still a big issue in Guatemala). And absolutely do not flirt with them – it is forbidden for Mayans to engage in romance with non-Mayans.
- Don’t drink the tap water: The tap water is not safe to drink in Guatemala. Most accommodations provide filtered water, or you can purchase bottled water.
Looking to plan the perfect Guatemala trip? Be sure to also read my ultimate 7 day Guatemala itinerary, with plenty of tips!
15 Things to Do in San Juan la Laguna
Take photos on La Calle de las Sombrillas
As soon as you arrive on the docks, you’ll notice that there are colorful decorations hanging overhead. As you continue to walk further into town, you’ll encounter La Calle de las Sombrillas, or the umbrella street.
There are hundreds of umbrellas hanging over the street, in an array of vibrant patterns and colors. It’s perhaps the most famous street in San Juan la Laguna, and makes for the perfect photo op to commemorate your visit!
On the street, you’ll also find a number of galleries that you can pop into, selling one-of-a-kind paintings and traditional art.
Wander through the colorful streets
La Calle de la Sombrillas isn’t the only colorful street in town! One thing that you’ll notice about San Juan is that there is color everywhere you look. Its narrow streets are adorned with colorful facades, murals, and decorations.
One of my favorite things to do in San Juan was just to wander the streets and to take it all in. You’ll find plenty to look at and discover, from street art, art galleries, and views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes.
Learn about Mayan textiles and weaving
One of the things that fascinated me about visiting Guatemala was seeing all the vibrant colors, textures, and patterns of the traditional clothing and textiles. So, one of my favorite things to do in San Juan la Laguna was to visit a weaving collective to learn more about traditional weaving techniques.
There are a number of weaving collectives located around town. These collectives date back to the Guatemalan Civil War, when many men lost their lives, leaving women with little opportunities to support themselves and their children.
These collectives allowed women to come together to practice traditional Mayan weaving techniques, while getting paid a fair wage for their work. This is especially important in Lake Atitlan, where much of the population is indigenous and tends to be disproportionately poor.
Weaving collectives are found all over Lake Atitlan, with each town having its own specialty. San Juan’s is natural dyeing techniques, where threads are vibrantly colored using local plants, fruits and vegetables.
You can get a demonstration of these techniques at Casa Flor Ixaco. While the weavers weren’t at work on the day I visited, they were still able to show me the materials and tools used, and learn more about how they create these intricate works of art. I found it super fascinating, and I got a newfound appreciation of the amount of work that goes into each piece.
I also couldn’t help but pick up a few items at their shop, which sells textiles, clothing, accessories, and other woven items. Each item comes with a tag indicating the name and photo of the woman who made it, and what materials were used to dye it. The prices are higher than in other places around Lake Atitlan, but remember that you’re supporting these women.
Visit a chocolate factory
Learn more about chocolate and how it is made at Licor Marron Chocolates, San Juan la Laguna’s very own chocolate factory.
Chocolate is one of Guatemala’s main exports, and long before cacao beans were used to make chocolate, they were used for ritualistic purposes by the Mayans, who believed that they had magical powers.
Stop by for a free demonstration, during which you’ll find out how chocolate is produced, and about cacao beans and how they are turned into a bar of chocolate. If you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, they offer classes and workshops as well.
They also have a shop where they sell bars, drink mixes, and more, which make perfect souvenirs to take home. There’s also an on-site cafe, and it’s the perfect place to take a break and enjoy a hot (or iced) chocolate beverage.
Hike to the Indian Nose summit at sunrise
One of the most popular things to do in San Juan la Laguna is to hike up the summit of Indian Nose, also known as La Nariz del Indio or Rotro Maya. The distinct rock formation was given its nickname because it’s said to look like a profile of a human face, with the peak resembling a nose.
The peak was considered sacred by the Mayans, who would pray and conduct religious ceremonies here.
A 2 hour climb will get you to the summit, located at 2,863 meters (9,393 feet) in elevation. From here, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the lake, the volcanoes, and the villages below. It’s especially magical at sunrise, when you’ll catch the sun peeking through from behind the volcanoes, and casting them in a golden glow.
It is highly recommended that you complete the hike with a local guide, who will know the ins and outs of the trail and will get you there safely. If you’re not staying in San Juan, there are tours that offer transport from neighboring San Pedro, or even from Panajachel.
Be sure to carry a little bit of cash on you (but not too much), as you’ll need to pay an entrance fee to the Mirador, as well as to the local landowners whose land you’ll pass through on the hike.
Sadly, I didn’t complete the hike because I was still limping around from doing the Acatenango trek, but it’s definitely at the top of the list for next time. A few people that I met on my trek absolutely raved about it, saying that it was absolutely spectacular and one of their favorite experiences in Lake Atitlan!
Check out the view from the Mirador
If you want to check out a beautiful view without trekking up to the Indian Nose summit, then this is the next best thing. The Mirador Kaiq’Aiswaan shares the same trailhead as the Indian Nose hike, but it only takes 15-20 minutes to reach the viewpoint.
The view isn’t as expansive, but it is still stunning, and you can see San Juan, San Pedro, and the three surrounding volcanoes around the lake.
To get here, you’ll either walk about 15-20 minutes from the docks, or you can take a tuk tuk to the trailhead (I’d probably take a tuk tuk because I ended up getting lost and gave up lol).
Once you reach the trailhead, you’ll pay a Q30 entrance fee, and begin your ascent up some colorfully painted stairs. You’ll reach the Mirador when you come across the giant cross and colorful viewing platform, adorned with the traditional motifs of the Tz’utujil Maya people who call San Juan home.
Browse some art galleries
San Juan la Laguna is a town with a rich artistic culture, and there are several art galleries around town, showcasing the incredible talent of the local Tz’utujil artists. The artwork features vibrant colors and is inspired by traditional Mayan themes and the natural beauty of Lake Atitlan.
Many of the artists are at the galleries, so you’ll get to chat with them about their work. Some of the galleries even offer painting workshops so you can gain a deeper insight into traditional techniques.
You’ll find a number of galleries as you get off the docks, but some of the best ones are Galeria de Arte Chiya, Galería Imox and Galería de Arte Gil Yojcóm.
Learn about medicinal plants
Throughout time, Mayan healers used medicinal plants to heal diseases. You can learn more about the healing properties of various herbs and plants at Plantas Medicinales Mayab, located near the Casa Flor Ixaco and the Licor Marron chocolate factory.
You can go on a tour of a small herb garden, and learn how Tz’utujil healers use them to treat various diseases. You can also learn about how they make various creams, medicines, and soaps, which are available for purchase at their shop.
Check out the street art
One of my favorite things about visiting San Juan was that there was art everywhere you look – not just in the shops and galleries, but also while walking down the streets.
While you’ll find a variety of murals while walking throughout the town, you’ll see the largest concentration of them on 5ta Ave. Here, you’ll find that almost every house is adorned with vibrant murals, with hats and colorful pom poms hanging overhead.
Many of the murals depict Tz’utujil Maya life and culture, and capture the natural beauty of the lake, while using traditional painting techniques and motifs.
Visit the town square + church
Located just up the hill from the main dock, you’ll find a small plaza with an understated Catholic Church of San Juan la Laguna.
The stone church has a mix of both colonial and indigenous influences, representing the cultural heritage of the town. The original church dates back to the colonial era, when it was a religious and artistic center.
Much of the original church was damaged by an earthquake, but it was later rebuilt. The interior of the church features stained-glass windows, wood-carved doors and a beautiful pulpit, which symbolize the fusion of old and new.
Relax at a cafe
If you’re looking for somewhere to relax and enjoy the views of San Juan and Lake Atitlan, head to Caffe La Cabaña.
Located right on the lakeshore, the cafe has a chill vibe with some amazing views. There are a number of fun photo ops here, from a bamboo nest, a swing with vibrantly painted wings, and more.
It’s the perfect place to chill with a drink, grab some food, and take in the beauty of Lake Atitlan.
Dive into Guatemalan coffee culture
Coffee is another one of Guatemala’s main exports, and it is known to have some of the best coffee in the world. This is thanks to the volcanic soil that allows the cacao plant to thrive, and you’ll find coffee plantations and fields nestled in the highland above Lake Atitlan.
San Juan is especially known for their coffee plantations near town, and you can even take a tour to visit them. The tour is also an immersion into the communal farm of the Tz’utujil people, about the history of coffee and its connection with the indigenous communities.
Otherwise, I highly recommend sampling some Guatemalan coffee at one of the coffee shops in town! You can also pick up some beans to take home. I stopped by Cafe San Juan, located right by the docks, but Cafe Las Marias and Cooperativa La Voz came highly recommended as well.
Learn about Mayan stingless bees
One of the most interesting things to do in San Juan la Laguna is to learn about Guatemala’s native bees. Guatemala is home to over 30 species of tiny stingless bees called meliponas.
These bees have been revered by the Mayans for centuries, not just for their honey but for their important role as pollinators. In addition, the honey has a very unique flavor profile and is also known for its medicinal properties.
You can learn more about these bees at Mundo de Abejas Mayas, find out more about traditional beekeeping methods, and try some of the unique honey that it produces. There’s also a shop where you can honey and honey-based products, which make perfect souvenirs.
Shop for local handicrafts
San Juan la Laguna, and Lake Atitlan in general, is known for their traditional handicrafts, especially those showcasing traditional Mayan weaving techniques. While I highly recommend visiting a weaving cooperative to learn more about these techniques, you can also find plenty of handicraft shops lining the streets.
You’ll see tons of shops lining the main street leading up from the docks, selling everything from clothing, textiles, paintings, and other goods. Everything is so beautiful that it is almost impossible to leave without at least bringing a few things home!
Visit neighboring towns
In addition to San Juan la Laguna, there are around a dozen towns around Lake Atitlan. Each of the towns are still inhabited by Mayan groups, each with a rich history and unique cultural identity.
I recommend visiting at least a few towns, as they are all so different! Getting a taste of more than one town will give you more of an understanding of the unique cultures of Lake Atitlan.
You can visit each town via lancha, or water taxi. If you want to hit up more than one town in one day, I recommend hiring a private boat to make multiple stops, or booking this full-day boat tour around the lake.
Here is a quick rundown of the different towns around Lake Atitlan:
- Panajachel: Panajachel (or “Pana”) is the gateway to Lake Atitlan and the main town on the lake. There’s always a flurry of activity, but you’ll also find the best handicrafts shopping and pretty lake views.
- San Pedro la Laguna: The backpacker’s hub of the lake, always buzzing with activity. Also offers a look into Mayan culture and breathtaking nature if you look beyond the surface.
- San Marcos la Laguna: The spiritual and wellness hub of the lake – find plenty of yoga studios, meditation classes, chakras readings, and organic cafes.
- Santa Catarina Palopo: The blue town – all the buildings in Santa Catarina are painted in various shades of blue with traditional Mayan emblems, as part of an initiative to promote tourism.
- Santa Cruz la Laguna: The peaceful town with the best views of the lake.
- Jaibalito: This tiny town is considered to be the hidden gem of Lake Atitlan
- San Antonio Palopo: This colorful and charming town is best known for its traditional pottery.
- Santiago Atitlan: The largest and most traditional town on the lake, you’ll get a more local vibe here.
- Tzununa: Best known for being the place to go to learn about permaculture, organic farming, herbal medicine, and growing mushrooms.
- San Lucas Toliman: The predominantly Mayan town where you’ll hardly see any foreign tourists.
- Santa Clara La Laguna: This town is located up in the hills and ideal for adventure seekers.
Be sure to also read my guide on the best towns around Lake Atitlan + the best things to do in Lake Atitlan!
Where to Stay in San Juan la Laguna
Most people tend to visit San Juan on a day trip from neighboring San Pedro, or one of the other towns around Lake Atitlan, such as Panajachel, San Marcos, or Santa Cruz.
However, staying in San Juan is an option if you’re looking for a quiet stay. There aren’t any luxury hotels here, but you’ll find some lad-back boutique properties here.
Here are some of the top rated accommodations in San Juan la Laguna:
- Eco Hotel Uxlabil: This eco-friendly boutique hotel is located right on the lakeshore, and features local Mayan design and decor. There’s a pool, free kayak rentals, and incredible views.
- Eco-Hotel Mayachik: Another eco boutique hotel, perched on a hilltop overlooking the town. Stay in rustic wooden bungalows, surrounded by nature with amazing mountain views. They have daily yoga classes, Temazcal, and organize tours and hikes.
Have you ever been to San Juan la Laguna? What are some of your favorite things to do there?
More Guatemala content you may enjoy:
- The Ultimate 7 Day Guatemala Itinerary
- 31 Unforgettable Things to Do in Lake Atitlan
- Best Towns to Visit Around Lake Atitlan
- 26 Amazing Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala
- The Ultimate Guide to the Acatenango Volcano Hike
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Caroline is a Southern California based traveler, writer, and photographer. She travels all around California, the US, and the world in search of the most colorful places, the most delicious food, and bucket-list adventures. Her aim is to inspire other travelers discover how to add more adventure and joy to their lives. On Pictures & Words, you’ll find detailed guides + itineraries, along with vibrant photos to help you plan the the most epic trips. When she’s not traveling, Caroline also runs half marathons.