Hotels in Santiago Atitlán

Awaken Your Senses in Santiago Atitlán: A Tapestry of Lakes, Volcanoes, and Vibrant Culture

Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Atitlán, Santiago Atitlán in Sololá, Guatemala, is a vibrant cultural gem that captivates the adventurous traveler. Surrounded by majestic volcanoes, this enchanting town boasts lush gardens, traditional markets, and historical churches that reflect its rich indigenous heritage. Explore the bustling downtown, where artisanal crafts and local delicacies await, or take a serene boat ride on the lake to soak in breathtaking views. Santiago Atitlán offers an authentic experience for those seeking to connect with nature and immerse themselves in local traditions, making it a must-visit destination off the beaten path. For great hotel rates in Santiago Atitlán, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Santiago Atitlán

Some of the best places to stay in Santiago Atitlán are Panajachel, Santa Cruz La Laguna and San Pedro La Laguna. Santiago Atitlán offers stunning views, rich Mayan culture, and vibrant local markets. Panajachel is ideal for first-time visitors due to its accessibility and variety of accommodations. Santa Cruz La Laguna provides a tranquil atmosphere with boutique lodgings, while San Pedro La Laguna is popular for its lively vibe and backpacker-friendly options. Most hotels across these areas offer comfortable rooms with beautiful lake views, ensuring a memorable stay in this enchanting region of Guatemala. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Santiago Atitlán:

1. PanajachelOpens in a new window: Panajachel is a vibrant hub for travellers looking to explore the stunning Lake Atitlán, known for its romantic scenery and outdoor activities. The area offers cultural experiences, such as visiting the Church of Saint Francis and the Casa Cakchiquel Arts Center. Hotels like Hotel Dos MundosOpens in a new window, a well-rated 3.5-star hotel, provide amenities such as free breakfast and entertainment options like cable TV. Another great choice is Hotel y Restaurante Casa TexelOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel, which features a restaurant and room service, perfect for couples. For business travellers, Jabel Tinamit Hotel & VillasOpens in a new window offers tailored services and facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
2. Santa Cruz La LagunaOpens in a new window: Santa Cruz La Laguna is an idyllic destination for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán and outdoor adventures at Cerro Tzankujil. The area is perfect for romantic getaways and wellness retreats. Casa Prana Hotel In AtitlanOpens in a new window, a 4-star resort, features a full spa and outdoor pool, ideal for relaxation. For a more natural experience, El Picnic AtitlanOpens in a new window, a cozy 3-star lodge, focuses on wellness and romance, offering spa services and picturesque outdoor amenities. Another option, Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort & Nature ReserveOpens in a new window, is a 4-star lodge that combines luxury and nature, featuring romantic packages and a variety of spa treatments.
3. San Pedro La LagunaOpens in a new window: San Pedro La Laguna is a charming village known for its stunning views of Lake Atitlán and the adventurous San Pedro Volcano. It’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking cultural experiences. El Delfin Hotel y RestauranteOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel, offers direct beach access, making it perfect for relaxation. Another option is Hotel Palmera DoradaOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel suitable for families and business travellers, featuring a beach and conference space. Sababa resortOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel, provides free breakfast and entertainment options like billiards, ensuring a fun and comfortable stay.

Things to do in Santiago Atitlán for first times

Santiago Atitlán offers a stunning blend of lakefront beauty, towering volcanoes, and lush gardens, making it a perfect three-day getaway. Visitors can enjoy kayaking on serene waters, hiking through scenic trails, and exploring vibrant local culture amidst a breathtaking natural landscape. It's an unforgettable retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Santiago Atitlán:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the breathtaking Lake Atitlán, where you can soak in the stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes and local villages. After enjoying the serene atmosphere, take a leisurely walk to Central Park, a vibrant hub where you can watch locals go about their daily activities and perhaps grab a bite at a nearby café. Conclude your day with a visit to the historic St. James the Apostle Church, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance—an ideal spot to reflect on your experiences.
• Day 2: Start by exploring Santiago Atitlán, a town rich in indigenous culture and vibrant markets. Next, make your way to the Cojolya Museum, where you'll learn about the traditional weaving techniques and the significance of textiles in local culture. Afterward, head to Rey Tepepul Viewpoint for panoramic views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding mountains—perfect for some stunning photographs and moments of tranquility amidst nature.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a challenging yet rewarding hike up San Pedro Volcano. The views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular, offering a unique perspective of the lake below. After descending, take some time to relax and enjoy lunch in San Pedro la Laguna. In the afternoon, visit Atitlán Volcano, where you can explore its lush surroundings. Wrap up your day at the Church of Saint Peter, where you can admire its beautiful architecture and learn about its historical significance in the community.

4 tips to find a great Santiago Atitlán hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santiago Atitlán is from August to October, when hotel prices tend to be more affordable. International travellers should aim to book their flights at least three months in advance to secure better rates, and the same applies to domestic travellers. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area's stunning lake, picturesque gardens, and historic churches. With its great value for money, Santiago Atitlán offers an excellent opportunity for those looking to explore on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Santiago Atitlán, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Head over to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging the best hotel deals, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities for savings on your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Santiago Atitlán.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of accessing the sites you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Santiago Atitlán

Santiago Atitlán experiences its lowest average temperature in October to December, at 73.0°F (22.8°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.6°F (24.8°C). September is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Santiago Atitlán, March, April, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, August, and October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.