Curator’s statement
Welcome to Lake Atitlan, a digital nomad's paradise surrounded by vibrant Mayan villages and stunning natural beauty. As you balance work and exploration, here's a guide to immersing yourself in the unique charm of the various lakeside villages.
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Where to stay in Lake Atitlan
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Things to do in Lake Atitlan
1. Panajachel: Setting Up Your Base
Accommodation: Choose a hotel or guesthouse in Panajachel, the main hub. Posada de los Volcanes and Atitlan Villas offer comfortable stays.
Coworking Spaces: Opt for Selina Atitlan or Impact Hub Antigua in Panajachel for reliable workspaces and a community of fellow digital nomads.
2. San Pedro La Laguna: Balancing Work and Play
Accommodation: Consider Eco-Hotel Mayachik for sustainability and great views.
Work Spots: Visit La Puerta, a café with a tranquil garden, for a peaceful work session.
Exploration: Dive into local culture by visiting the San Pedro Market and enjoy the vibrant nightlife after work.
3. San Marcos La Laguna: Spiritual Serenity
Accommodation: Choose a lakeside retreat like Lush Atitlan or Eagle's Nest Atitlan.
Work Spots: Explore the cozy Shambala Café or PYRIT Yoga & Café for a unique work environment.
Exploration: Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere with yoga classes, holistic therapies, and a visit to the famous Pyramid of the Moon.
4. San Juan La Laguna: Artistic Vibes
Accommodation: Opt for Posada Schumann or Hotel San Juan.
Work Spots: Head to Mero D'Oro, a café with a creative atmosphere, for work sessions.
Exploration: Discover the vibrant street art, cooperative workshops and the Women's Weaving Cooperative for a cultural experience.
5. Santiago Atitlan: Rich Cultural Heritage
Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Bambu or Hotel Hospedaje Guatefriend.
Work Spots: Explore Café Loco for a mix of work and local flavor.
Exploration: Visit the Maximon shrine, the local market, and the textile museum to dive into the town's cultural richness.
6. Santa Cruz La Laguna: Tranquil Retreat
Accommodation: Enjoy the tranquility at La Iguana Perdida or Isla Verde.
Work Spots: Work with a view at The Clover, a lakeside café with a stunning panorama.
Exploration: Take a dip in the lake, hike to the Indian Nose viewpoint, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this lesser-explored village.
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Connectivity Tips for Village Exploration
eSIM Card: Purchase an eSIM card via Airalo for consistent mobile data throughout your village explorations.
Transport: Use public boats or private shuttles to navigate between villages easily.
Health and Safety in the Villages
Local Cuisine: Savor local dishes but ensure they are prepared in hygienic conditions.
Altitude: Be mindful of the varying altitudes in different villages and take it easy to acclimate.
Emergency Contacts: Note down emergency numbers and the location of medical facilities in each village.
Need to know
Lake Atitlan's diverse villages offer a perfect blend of work and cultural exploration. Tailor your digital nomad experience to the unique vibes of each lakeside gem and make the most of your time by the enchanting waters. Enjoy the journey!
Travel Advisor
Andrew Fox
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Guatemala.