San Juan La Laguna - Discovering Guatemala

Travelling to San Juan La Laguna

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in San Juan La Laguna, a pretty good destination in Guatemala (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to San Juan La Laguna and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around San Juan La Laguna, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Guatemala, here's everything to know about San Juan La Laguna for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to San Juan La Laguna

San Juan La Laguna is a small town located on the shores of Lake Atitlán in the Sololá department of Guatemala. It is primarily a Tz'utujil Mayan community, and traditional clothing and customs are still commonly observed. The town is known for its vibrant textile industry, with many local artisans creating beautiful woven and embroidered textiles. It is also home to several cooperative coffee farms and a growing eco-tourism industry. The town is accessible by boat or by road from other nearby towns around Lake Atitlán. Overall, San Juan La Laguna is a peaceful and authentic Guatemalan experience for travelers who want to explore the indigenous culture and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Atitlán.

What to visit in San Juan La Laguna

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in San Juan La Laguna, Guatemala: 1. Lake Atitlán: This is the main attraction of San Juan La Laguna. Lake Atitlán is the deepest lake in Central America, and it's surrounded by towering mountains and three dormant volcanoes. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the lake, which is also popular for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
2. San Juan La Laguna Indigenous Mayan Village: San Juan La Laguna is a village that is home of multiple artisan cooperatives. The village itself is a great place to take a walking tour and explore the local markets, churches, and museums. Visitors can find traditional textiles and colorful handicrafts made by the Tz'utujil Maya communities living there.
3. Mayan Families: This non-profit organization supports local communities in the area, and it offers the opportunity to learn about the indigenous way of life and the unique efforts of the organization. Visitors can take a guided tour of the organization and learn about its projects, such as education, health, and nutrition services.
4. Tzununá: Tzununá is a nearby village that is known for its stunning waterfalls. Visitors can take a guided hike of about 2.5 hours to reach the falls, where they can swim and cool off in the refreshing waters.
5. Cerro de Oro: Cerro de Oro is another nearby village that offers fantastic views of the lake. Visitors can hike up to the top of the hill to see the panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is approximately two hours long.
6. Volcan San Pedro: This nearby volcano is a popular destination for adventurous travelers, requiring an early start and an experienced guide. A full-day hike to the summit of the volcano takes about six hours and affords stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It is not an easy hike but it is worth it.
Overall, San Juan La Laguna offers a unique opportunity to explore indigenous culture, beautiful landscapes, and local communities.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Guatemala, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in San Juan La Laguna.

When to go on holiday to San Juan La Laguna

The best time to visit San Juan La Laguna is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During these months, you can expect sunny skies, lower humidity, and comfortable temperatures. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so prices for accommodations and activities may be higher. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can consider visiting during the rainy season (May to November), but keep in mind that this period can also bring heavy rains and cooler temperatures.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to San Juan La Laguna

There are a few ways to get to San Juan La Laguna, Guatemala: 1. By bus: You can take a bus from Guatemala City or Antigua to Sololá, and then transfer to another bus that will take you to San Juan La Laguna. The journey takes around 3-4 hours in total.
2. By shuttle: There are also shuttles that run from Guatemala City or Antigua directly to San Juan La Laguna. This option is more expensive but more convenient and faster.
3. Private transportation: You can also hire a private car or van to take you directly to San Juan La Laguna from Guatemala City or Antigua. This option is more expensive but more comfortable and convenient, especially if you are traveling with a group.
No matter which option you choose, make sure to confirm the schedule and prices beforehand and be aware of safety precautions while traveling in Guatemala.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit San Juan La Laguna, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in San Juan La Laguna

San Juan La Laguna is a small town located on the shores of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala. The town is known for its rich Mayan culture and traditions, and the cuisine is no exception. The typical foods of San Juan La Laguna are: 1. Caldo de Jutía: This is a hearty stew made with jutía, a type of rodent found in the local forests. The meat is slow-cooked with vegetables and spices to create a rich, flavorful broth.
2. Kak'ik: This is a traditional Mayan soup made with turkey, chili peppers, and tomatoes. The soup is finished with a blend of roasted spices and served with a side of lime wedges.
3. Chuchitos: These are similar to tamales but smaller in size. They are made with a corn-based dough and filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices. They are then steamed until cooked through and served with a side of spicy sauce.
4. Pepián: This is a thick stew made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices. The dish is known for its rich, bold flavors, and is often served with a side of rice or tortillas.
5. Tostadas: These are crispy tortillas topped with a variety of toppings such as refried beans, meats, cheese, and vegetables. They are often served as a light snack or appetizer. Overall, San Juan La Laguna's cuisine is characterized by its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and unique blend of indigenous and Spanish influences.
You can find general info about typical foods in Guatemala here.

Is San Juan La Laguna an expensive destination for tourists?

San Juan La Laguna in Guatemala is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists. Prices for accommodations, food, and activities are lower compared to other popular tourist spots in Guatemala such as Antigua or Tikal. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, the time of year, and the activities you choose to do. It's always a good idea to research ahead of time and compare prices to find the best deals and budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in San Juan La Laguna

The best areas to find accommodation to visit San Juan La Laguna (Guatemala) are in the town itself or in nearby towns such as San Pedro La Laguna or Santiago Atitlán. These areas offer a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Additionally, staying in San Juan La Laguna itself will allow you to easily explore the town on foot and experience the local culture. San Pedro La Laguna is also a popular choice for accommodation as it has a more lively and bustling atmosphere with many restaurants, bars, and shops. Santiago Atitlán is another option for accommodation, it offers a more traditional Mayan experience and has a bustling market and historic church to explore.
You can check hotel prices at San Juan La Laguna here:
Booking.com

Is San Juan La Laguna a safe destination for tourists?

San Juan La Laguna is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas or markets.
It's recommended that visitors follow basic safety tips such as keeping valuable items secure, avoiding walking alone at night, and not leaving belongings unattended in public places. Travelers should also stay informed about local news and events.
Overall, San Juan La Laguna is a lovely and charming town that's well worth visiting, and as long as travelers use common sense and caution, they should enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Guatemala here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting San Juan La Laguna.

What type of travelers will enjoy San Juan La Laguna the most?

San Juan La Laguna in Guatemala is a place that can be enjoyed by many types of travelers. Here are some groups that may enjoy this destination: 1. Nature lovers: San Juan La Laguna is set on the shores of Lake Atitlan and surrounded by green forests and hills. The area is perfect for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
2. Cultural enthusiasts: San Juan La Laguna is a town that has preserved its indigenous culture, traditions, and arts. It's a great place to learn about the customs of the Tz'utujil Maya people and to visit their workshops, galleries, and markets.
3. Families: San Juan La Laguna offers activities for all ages. Children will love the boat rides on the lake, the butterfly sanctuary, and the textile workshops, while parents can relax at the hot springs or enjoy the local cuisine.
4. Yoga and meditation practitioners: San Juan La Laguna has become a hub for yoga retreats and meditation workshops. The peaceful atmosphere, the stunning scenery, and the facilities offered by the local resorts make it an ideal location for these activities.
Overall, San Juan La Laguna is a great destination for those seeking outdoors, culture, or relaxation. It may not be the best option for young people looking for a lot of nightlife or partying, as it is a small and tranquil town.

How to get around San Juan La Laguna

The most common mode of transportation in San Juan La Laguna, Guatemala is walking as the town is small and easy to navigate on foot. However, if you need to travel further, tuk-tuks (three-wheeled auto-rickshaws) are readily available. Buses and shared taxis are also available for longer trips to neighboring towns. However, it's important to note that the roads in San Juan La Laguna can be narrow and often unpaved, so travel by foot or tuk-tuk may be the easiest and safest option.

What to see around San Juan La Laguna

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from San Juan La Laguna: 1. San Pedro La Laguna - a charming town known for its bustling local market and vibrant nightlife.
2. Santiago Atitlán - a beautiful lakeside town known for its Mayan culture and vibrant textiles.
3. Chichicastenango - a vibrant market town famous for its colorful street markets and traditional Mayan weaving.
4. Santa Catarina Palopó - a picturesque lakeside town known for its beautiful murals and stunning views of Lake Atitlán.
5. Panajachel - a bustling and tourist-friendly town on the shores of Lake Atitlán, offering numerous attractions and activities such as swimming, fishing, and water sports.
6. Antigua Guatemala - a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and vibrant atmosphere.
7. Volcán San Pedro - a striking volcano that offers a challenging hike and stunning views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding mountains.
For every travel information about Guatemala you can click here.

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