Local Attractions
Explore Our Beautiful City
Overlooking beautiful Lake Atitlán, just steps from the city center, Porta Hotel del Lago is one of the best-located hotels for experiencing the vibrant attractions and exhilarating things to do in Panajachel, Guatemala. Stay with us and you’ll be surrounded by the rich culture, millennial history and natural beauty that has inspired – and continues to inspire – so many visitors and locals alike.
“[Lake Atitlán is] the most beautiful lake in the world." – German explorer Alexander von Humbolt
“[Panajachel and Lake Atitlán are] the most magnificent spectacle we ever saw.” – Nineteenth century explorer John. L. Stevens
"Lake Como, it seems to me, touches on the limit of permissibly picturesque, but Atitlán is Como with additional embellishments of several immense volcanoes. It really is too much of a good thing."– Renowned author Aldous Huxley
Come and design your own opinions and stories as you learn about the volcanic explosion approximately 85,000 years ago that formed Lake Atitlán’s inspiring sapphire waters. Hear the legend of the Mayan princess who sacrificed herself for the man she loved and causes the wind (Xocomil) that blows across the lake every day at noon. Explore underwater cliffs and spectacular rock formations that offer scuba divers an unforgettable experience. Enjoy spectacular kayaking or fish for black bass, which can weigh up to four kilograms. Looking for a real challenge? Scale one of the impressive volcanoes –Volcán San Pedro, Volcán Atitlán or Volcán Tolimán – that towers more than 3,000 meters over the lake or experience the rush of paragliding.
Below, you will find more information on the most popular attractions and things to do in and around Panajachel and Lake Atitlán. For assistance with arranging tours, recreational activities or anything else you might want to experience during your visit to Lake Atitlán, please ask our staff.
Hang Gliding and Paragliding
Three miles
Depending on climate conditions, hang gliding and paragliding are two of the most exciting activities in Atitlán. You can fly from San Jorge La Laguna or Santa Catarina Palopo and admire the entire lake’s splendid landscape.
Birdwatching
Three miles
The lake with its local flora and fauna is home to many migratory bird varieties. You’ll be able to observe more than 50 bird species in the surroundings of Panajachel, inside coffee plantations or up in the cloudy hills. Plus, you might even spy the Horned Guan (Oreophasis dervianus), a local endangered species.
Religious Sites
Five miles
You can participate in religious services and masses on Sundays in any church in the towns on the lake. One of the most popular places of worship is Santiago Atitlán due to its devotion to the image of Maximón, a local saint attributed to mystic powers.
Kayaking, Waterskiing and Sailing
One-half mile
You can rent a kayak in any place near the water to practice one of the most interesting sports on the lake. Consult the hotel’s reception desk for the best schedule. Waterskiing, sailing and windsurfing are among other water sports that are exciting options to explore. It’s possible to find these services in Panajachel and Santa Cruz La Laguna.