Volcanic lake with Mayan villages, volcanoes, and boat tours
Guatemala Get directions
"I finally saw the dreamy blue expanse of Lake Atitlán that had made the rounds on social media when I visited Guatemala twice this year—first for work, then for a girls' trip." - Skye Sherman Skye Sherman Skye Sherman is a travel writer based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Aside from traveling, she's also a pilot, scuba diver, bookworm, and fourth-generation Floridian. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Palm Beach Illustrated, Atlas Obscura, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"I found Lake Atitlán to be majestic and surrounded by volcanoes, with lakeside villages that each have their own personality and plenty of opportunities for exploration." - Katrin Kirchhoff
"A scenic volcanic lake ringed by small, traditional communities where visitors can cross by boat to learn about Mayan languages, artisan crafts, and local culture in an intimate, community-centered setting." - Amanda Ogle Amanda Ogle Amanda Ogle is a writer and editor who specializes in travel, food and drink, sustainability, and general lifestyle topics. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, National Geographic, Condé Nast Traveler, Texas Highways, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Framed by the Sierra Madres, Lake Atitlán blends Indigenous culture with waterside serenity — it's a popular spot for yoga retreats, and I recommend crossing the crater lake by boat to explore pueblos, markets, and treehouse accommodations." - Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

"A beautiful volcanic lake known for its balmy weather and delicious food, close to the architecturally stunning colonial city of Antigua. It offers a mix of relaxation and cultural enrichment."