Private Day Tour from Antigua to Lake Atitlan
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is the exclusive, private day tour of Lake Atitlan, ideal for travelers who want to experience the best of the lake without haste. Enjoy private transportation from your hotel in Antigua.
Explore three unforgettable Mayan villages—San Juan, San Pedro and Santiago—with personalized attention, artisan workshops, lake views, spectacular photographs and authentic cultural immersion. Designed to offer comfort, real experiences, this tour allows you to discover the magic of Lake Atitlan and return to Antigua the same day, being the perfect choice for travelers seeking a higher quality experience.
✅ Reasons to book this tour:
Greater comfort and privacy: no strangers, no waiting times.
Make the most of your time: get to know three villages and return to Antigua the same day.
Ideal for spectacular photos: volcanoes, murals, viewpoints
Personalized attention : a guide that adapts the experience to the rhythm and interests of the group
Available options
Private Day Tour from Antigua to Lake Atitlan
Pickup included
What's included
Transport by private boat
Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Hotel pickup – Antigua Guatemala
Duration: 10 minutes
Your private driver will arrive directly at your hotel in Antigua to start the journey to Lake Atitlan. From the first moment you will enjoy a comfortable, safe and personalized experience, traveling through the mountains of the Guatemalan highlands until you reach one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.
2
Panajachel – Free time in Calle Santander
Duration: 30 minutes
When you arrive in Panajachel, you can walk along the vibrant Santander Street, famous for its colorful atmosphere, craft shops, cafes and spectacular views of the lake and volcanoes. It is the perfect place to take panoramic photos, meet local artisans and feel the authentic atmosphere of the main gate of Lake Atitlan.
3
Stop 3
Lake Atitlan – Private boat ride
Duration: 20 minutes
You will board a private boat exclusively for your group and start sailing on Lake Atitlan. During the tour you will enjoy breathtaking views of the volcanoes Atitlan, Tolimán and San Pedro, as well as the villages surrounding the banks. It is a perfect time to relax, enjoy the lake breeze and capture spectacular photos.
4
San Juan La Laguna
Duration: 45 minutes
San Juan is one of the most authentic and artistic villages on the lake. Here you will meet cooperatives of women weavers who keep alive ancestral techniques, such as natural dyes extracted from local plants. You’ll also walk through streets full of colorful murals, visit artisan cocoa workshops and discover a community proud of its Tz’utujil Mayan heritage. It is a deeply cultural stop, quiet and perfect for photography.
5
San Pedro La Laguna
Duration: 35 minutes
San Pedro combines tradition and a modern lakeside atmosphere. You can walk along its seawall, enjoy breathtaking views of the San Pedro volcano and explore small cafés with waterfront terraces. It is an ideal place to relax for a few minutes, take amazing photos and experience the most vibrant and contemporary side of Lake Atitlan.
6
Santiago Atitlan
Duration: 50 minutes
Santiago is the cultural heart of the Tz’utujil people and one of the most traditional communities on the lake. Here you will visit its historic church, tour the local market full of colors and aromas, and observe daily life in the central square. You will also have the option of meeting Maximón, a unique spiritual figure in Guatemala. This stop allows you to understand the spirituality, history and strong cultural identity of the region.
7
Return to Panajachel – Optional lunch
Duration: 1 hour
Back to Panajachel you can enjoy lunch with spectacular views of the lake and volcanoes in a local restaurant. It is a perfect time to rest after the cultural experience and enjoy Guatemalan cuisine.
8
Return to Antigua – Arrival at the hotel
Duration: 2.5 hours
Direct and comfortable return to your hotel in Antigua. Your driver will drop you off at the door, concluding a private one-day experience that combines breathtaking scenery, vivid Mayan culture and comfort at every stage of the tour.
What's not included
Tips
Alcoholic Beverages
Lunch
Breakfast
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Antigua
Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and vibrant culture. Nestled in the Central Highlands of Guatemala, it offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and colonial charm.
Top Attractions
Arco de Santa Catalina
This iconic archway is a symbol of Antigua. Built in the 17th century, it was originally part of a convent and was used by nuns to cross the street without being seen. Today, it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
Historical/Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Cerro de la Cruz
A short hike up this hill rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes. The cross at the top is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset.
Nature/Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Volcán Pacaya
One of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala, Pacaya offers exciting hiking and the opportunity to see lava flows up close. Guided tours typically include a visit to a local farm for a traditional meal.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Moderate to expensive, depending on the tour
Museo de Arte Precolombino y Vidrio Moderno
Housed in the beautiful Casa Popenoe, this museum showcases a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and contemporary glass art. The museum's courtyard and gardens are also worth exploring.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate
Café Sky
A popular café and cultural center, Café Sky offers a variety of coffee drinks, live music, and art exhibitions. It's a great place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pepián
A rich and flavorful stew made with meat (usually chicken or pork), vegetables, and a complex blend of spices. It's often considered the national dish of Guatemala.
Main dish
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Tamales
Steamed corn dough filled with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or cheese, wrapped in banana leaves. Guatemalan tamales are unique and delicious.
Snack/Street food
Contains meat, vegetarian options available
Rellenitos de Plátano
Sweet fried dough made from ripe plantains, filled with sweetened black beans. A popular dessert or snack in Guatemala.
Dessert
Vegetarian, vegan options available
Atol de Elote
A sweet and creamy drink made from fresh corn, milk, and sugar. It's a popular breakfast or snack, often enjoyed with tamales.
Drink/Dessert
Vegetarian, vegan options available
Popular Activities
Volcano hiking (Pacaya, Acatenango, Fuego)
Mountain biking
Zip-lining and canopy tours
Coffee tasting at local cafes
Spa and wellness treatments
Strolling through the historic center and parks
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
December to April (Dry season)
This is the most popular time to visit Antigua due to the dry weather and pleasant temperatures. It's ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and nearby volcanoes.
15-26°C
59-79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
Time Zone
CST (UTC -6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Antigua is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
- • Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- La Aurora International Airport • 45 km (28 miles)
By bus
Terminal de Occidente (San Cristóbal Totonicapán)
Getting around
Public transport
Chicken buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are colorful, shared minibuses that follow specific routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Histórico
Jardín del Paseo
Barrio de la Mercado
Day trips
Lake Atitlán
90 km (56 miles) • Full day
Lake Atitlán is a stunning highland lake surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages. It's known for its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.
Chichicastenango Market
80 km (50 miles) • Half day to full day
One of the largest and most colorful markets in Central America, Chichicastenango offers a vibrant mix of traditional crafts, textiles, and local produce. It's a great place to experience the local culture and find unique souvenirs.
Volcán Acatenango
40 km (25 miles) • Overnight
One of the highest volcanoes in Central America, Acatenango offers challenging hikes and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The summit offers panoramic views of nearby volcanoes, including the active Fuego.
Festivals
Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary each year)
Feria de la Asunción • August 15
Fiestas Patrias • September 15-16
Pro tips
- Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Visit the local markets for authentic souvenirs and a glimpse into daily life
- Try local coffee and chocolate, which are some of the best in the world
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and charming street scenes
- Be prepared for altitude sickness, as Antigua is located at a high elevation
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
