San Marcos La Laguna is one of the most unique villages on Lake Atitlán. Its small size, leafy paths, jetties and peaceful atmosphere make it a destination quite different from Panajachel or San Pedro. Here you can enjoy the calm of a morning by the water, a coffee amidst the gardens, or an afternoon watching the light fade amongst the volcanoes.
Where is San Marcos La Laguna?
San Marcos La Laguna is located in the Sololá Department, on the shores of Lake Atitlán. Covering just 12 square kilometres, it's a small town, so small that you can easily explore it on foot. Part of its territory lies within the lake basin, and life in the area centres on the area between the upper part of the town and the jetty.
Its location makes it a very convenient stop on a tour of Atitlán. To the west lies San Pablo La Laguna, and to the east Tzununá, Jaibalito and Santa Cruz.
Is it a good idea to stay in San Marcos La Laguna if you want to explore Lake Atitlán?
San Marcos La Laguna is a very special destination if you’re looking for peace and quiet, natural surroundings and easy access to boat trips. It’s also ideal if you want to practise yoga, meditate or travel without a packed schedule. It’s not the best choice if you’re after a lively nightlife or a wide variety of restaurants.
The village is best suited to those looking for a quiet place to stay or to go on day trips.
How to get to San Marcos La Laguna and get around Lake Atitlán
The most common way to get there is by a combination of road and boat. Many tourists first arrive in Panajachel, one of the gateways to Lake Atitlán, and from there take a boat to San Marcos. There are also roads leading to several villages, but travelling by water is usually the quickest and most pleasant option.
Boats between San Marcos La Laguna and other villages on Lake Atitlán
Public boats operate as water taxis between the villages. The main pier in San Marcos provides services to Panajachel, Santa Cruz, Jaibalito, Tzununá, San Pablo, San Juan and San Pedro.
Journeys between nearby villages are usually short. For example, it takes just 5 minutes to get from San Marcos to Tzununá, whilst the journey from San Marcos to San Pablo takes less than 10 minutes. Prices may vary depending on the season, but they are very affordable (between 2 and 3 euros at the current exchange rate).
How to get to San Marcos La Laguna from Guatemala City, Antigua and Xela
From Guatemala City, the most common route goes via Panajachel. The journey can take longer due to traffic, so it’s advisable to set off early. Once there, the pier connects to San Marcos and other villages.
From Antigua, most travellers book a shuttle to Panajachel and then continue by boat. Finally, from Xela, tourist transfers to Atitlán usually go to San Pedro or Panajachel, and once there, you can make the connection by boat.
What to see in San Marcos La Laguna in a day
San Marcos La Laguna is a village that can easily be explored in a day. Your visit should focus on the main street, the jetty and Cerro Tzankujil. These places encapsulate the character of the village and its main attractions: the peaceful atmosphere, the lake, the vegetation and the views.
You can arrive in the morning, take a leisurely stroll around the village, have a drink in a café, visit the nature reserve and be back at the jetty before the last boat leaves.
Colourful streets, murals and the main pedestrianised street
The main street in San Marcos La Laguna connects the harbour with the highest part of the village. It's a narrow street, pedestrianised in several sections, and is lined with shops, murals, cafés, accommodation and yoga signs. It's not a grand avenue, but rather a short and very popular stroll.
I recommend taking a leisurely stroll. The murals, the plants and the paths leading out into the gardens give this walk a very special charm.
Main jetty and views of the volcanoes from the lakeside
The main jetty is one of the best places to get your bearings. From there, you can see the boats, the volcanoes in the distance and everyday life on the lake. In the morning, the light is clearer and the water is calmer.
The shore of Lake San Marcos isn’t a large beach, but it's the perfect spot to sit and gaze at the San Pedro volcano on the other side.
Nature and outdoor activities in San Marcos La Laguna
Nature is another of San Marcos’s main attractions. You don’t have to go far to find footpaths, viewing points, swimming spots or green spaces. Unlike other villages, everything is within easy reach here.
The activities we suggest can be either active or relaxing. Some visitors come to see the waterfall at Cerro Tzankujil, whilst others come to swim or go kayaking.
Cerro Tzankujil: Trails, viewpoints and a dip in Lake Atitlán
Cerro Tzankujil is the must-see natural attraction in San Marcos La Laguna. This nature reserve is located next to the village and features trails, viewing points and stunning views of Lake Atitlán. It's open from 8 am to 5 pm and admission is very affordable, although you should check before visiting.
The place is famous for its diving platform into the lake. However, even if you don’t want to dive, the reserve is still well worth a visit for its views, walking trails and peaceful, natural atmosphere.
Kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming in the lake from San Marcos La Laguna
The lake is ideal for getting out on the water, although the experience varies depending on the weather, the wind and the area. In the morning, for example, conditions are better for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
Before going for a swim, we recommend asking at your accommodation about the safest areas. Lake Atitlán is beautiful, but it's also a very sensitive ecosystem. If you hire a kayak or a paddleboard, always wear a life jacket and don’t stray too far from the shore.
San Marcos La Laguna and wellness tourism
San Marcos La Laguna is a town closely associated with yoga, meditation, retreats and alternative therapies. This is something you’ll notice straight away, given the signs lining the high street and the wide variety of centres on offer. Ask at each one what each activity involves and choose the experience that best suits you.
Yoga and meditation retreats overlooking Lake Atitlán
Several of these centres offer yoga, meditation and retreat stays. Kawoq Forest, for example, is a sanctuary on Lake Atitlán offering personal retreats featuring daily yoga and meditation, vegetarian meals, and eco-friendly accommodation with views of the forest and the lake.
Many travellers come here specifically to relax. You can take a single class or even spend a week on a retreat.
Temazcals, holistic therapies and healing centres
Saunas, body therapies and healing centres are also part of what the local area has to offer. At some accommodation providers and retreat centres, you’ll find traditional saunas, massages and relaxation techniques.
The best advice is always to ask questions, compare options and not be swayed solely by marketing.
Where to stay in San Marcos La Laguna
San Marcos La Laguna offers accommodation to suit all types of traveller: simple guesthouses, rooms for long-term stays, small hotels, houses set amongst gardens, or eco-lodges with views of the lake.
You can stay near the pier for easier access to the boats. Alternatively, you can book accommodation in the upper part of the village if you’re looking for a quieter spot, although you’ll have to climb hills or walk along less well-lit paths.
Lakeside hotels and eco-lodges with views of the volcanoes
Accommodation overlooking the lake is ideal if you want to wake up to stunning views. Many tourists choose San Marcos for that feeling of a waterside retreat. A balcony, a terrace or a garden can completely transform your experience. But before you book, check whether it’s easy to access with luggage and whether it’s close to the jetty.
Budget hostels and accommodation for long stays
Hostels and basic accommodation are ideal for those on a tight budget or for those who wish to stay for several days. San Marcos attracts many long-stay tourists, as well as foreign students learning Spanish and people looking for a peaceful lifestyle by the lake.
If you’re planning a long stay, make sure your accommodation has internet access, a kitchen, good ventilation, is quiet and is close to the pier.
Where to eat in San Marcos La Laguna
In San Marcos, you’ll find cafés, vegetarian eateries, vegan options and simple lakeside restaurants. Don’t expect any high-end or international dining establishments, but you will find a wide range of popular local options.
Healthy coffee, vegetarian and vegan food
San Marcos has a reputation for being a health-conscious town, and this is evident in its range of cafés and restaurants. You’ll have no trouble finding bowls, fresh juices, vegetarian dishes, light international cuisine, artisan bakery goods and spots designed for relaxing without any rush.
This offer fits in perfectly with the wellness tourism that’s all the rage here. After several days on the road, sitting back and relaxing in a garden with a refreshing drink whilst enjoying the stunning views is priceless.
Restaurants by the lake where you can watch the sunset
The lakeside restaurants are the best option for the late afternoon. The light at this time of day has a special effect on Atitlán, especially when the clouds drift between the volcanoes. Mind you, in high season you need to arrive early to get a seat, as the restaurants can fill up quickly. Dinner could be one of the most unforgettable moments of your stay here.
Practical tips for visiting San Marcos La Laguna and Lake Atitlán
San Marcos La Laguna is easy to get around. However, bear in mind that the weather can change quite a lot, the boats run to their own schedule, and some streets aren’t really designed for rushing.
Best time to visit, weather and what to pack
The dry season is the best time to visit Lake Atitlán. This season runs from November to May, whilst the rainiest months are between May and November. September, in particular, is when it rains the most in San Marcos.
Make sure your rucksack contains light clothing, a raincoat, comfortable shoes, a swimsuit, sun cream and something warm for the evening (it gets a bit chilly once the sun goes down). Don’t forget to pack a waterproof bag for your mobile phone.
Safety, respect for local culture and basic rules
San Marcos is a very peaceful destination. However, at night it's best to avoid quiet, isolated paths and check with your accommodation to find out which areas are safest for walking. At the lake, always wear a life jacket when taking part in water sports.
Cultural respect is also important. Ask permission before taking photographs of anyone, keep noise levels down at night, don’t leave litter behind, and respect places of worship (in San Marcos there are Mayan traditions, patron saint celebrations and a very vibrant community spirit).
Frequently Asked Questions about San Marcos La Laguna
How many days should you spend in San Marcos La Laguna?
Two nights are enough to explore the village, visit Cerro Tzankujil and enjoy the lake. If you want to do yoga, relax or use San Marcos as a base for visiting other villages, it’s best to stay for about three nights.
Is San Marcos La Laguna better than San Pedro La Laguna?
It all depends on the kind of trip you’re planning. San Marcos La Laguna is a quieter, greener town with a focus on wellness. San Pedro has more nightlife, Spanish language schools and a backpacker vibe. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, San Marcos is the better choice.
Can you go for a swim in Lake Atitlán from San Marcos?
Yes, there are swimming areas, particularly near Cerro Tzankujil. However, we recommend that you check the water conditions beforehand, avoid areas with boats and do not stray too far from the shore.
