Discover Atitlán, Central America's iconic, volcano fringed lake where Mayan culture lives on in the alluring villages that dot the beautiful shoreline.
Lake Atitlán is a kaleidoscope of color and culture. The kayaking and hiking are far and away the ways to explore this gem of the Guatemalan highland.
Like so many incredible destinations, it's easy to fall into crowded tourist traps. But on this adventure you'll kayak from one charming village to the next and experience the very best of Atitlán's awe inspiring views and vibrant communities.
This circumnavigation adventure is bookended by overnights in Antigua, an enchanting UNESCO Heritage Site town that feels like you've stepped into a postcard. You'll have plenty of time to stroll the pastel hued streets and colorful markets.
Don't miss your opportunity to uncover the heart of the Guatemalan highland on this thrilling adventure!
Breakfasts and all but one dinner.
Lifejacket, paddle, sprayskirt
from Guatemala City airport
Drinks, lunches and one dinner
Including full medical, baggage and trip cancellation insurance.
We encourage tipping your guides.
Day 1:
Transfer from Guatemala City (GUA) to the charming UNESCO Heritage Site city of Antigua. You have plenty of time to explore the vibrant cobblestone streets and admire the well preserved Baroque architecture. A welcome reception, orientation and wonderful dinner round out the first evening of the adventure. (D)
Day 2:
Transfer to Pacaya Volcano for a spectacularly scenic hike. Explore interesting lava fields and even roast marshmallows over the hot spots. Pacaya has been erupting continuously since 1965. Witnessing these eruptions in person is a truly amazing experience! After completing the hike you return to Antigua for an optional walking tour and another evening in the Guatemalan highlands. (B, D)
Day 3:
The paddling adventure begins today! After transferring to Panajachel, the gateway to Lake Atitlán, you hop in your kayak paddle along the eastern shoreline. Your destination for the evening: San Antonio Palopó, a little visited waterfront town that’s renowned for its local art, offers some of the very best views of the lake. (B, D)
Day 4:
On today’s route you paddle along the base of the towering Tolimán Volcano as you make your way into the stunning inlet where your next home for the evening awaits, Santiago Atitlan. Here you’ll find that Tz’utujil Mayan culture is woven into everyday life. (B)
Day 5:
Paddle along the base of San Pedro Volcano to San Juan La Laguna, another lakeside town renowned for its art. Between the vibrant murals, installments, textiles and leatherwork, there’s interesting art almost everywhere you look! An optional sunset hike to La Nariz del Indio rounds out this amazing day. (B, D)
Day 6:
A very special town awaits you at the end of today’s paddle. Leaving San Juan La Laguna behind, you make your way along the beautiful northern shoreline to the unique hamlet of Jaibalito. No roads lead into this town, and, partially due to its limited accessibility, Jaibalito is justifiably considered the most authentic Mayan village on Atitlán. (B, D)
Day 7:
On the final paddling day of the adventure you complete the circumnavigation of Lake Atitlán. A brief paddle along a nature preserve completes the circuit back to Panajachel. Soak up your last views of this remarkably gorgeous lake over lunch, and then transfer back to Antigua for a celebratory farewell dinner. (B, D)
Day 8:
Shuttle back to Guatemala City (GUA) for your return flight home or your extended travels. (B)