The Complete Guide To Swimming in Lake Atitlan: Best Spots & Tips

Are you planning a trip to Lake Atitlan in Guatemala?

This post details everything you need to know to swim in Lake Atitlan safely, including the best spots and general tips to maximize your experience.

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Coined as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, a trip to Lake Atitlan in Guatemala is a truly magical experience.

Surrounded by majestic volcanos and traditional Mayan villages, taking a dip in the glistening waters is certainly enticing.

But how safe is it to swim in Lake Atitlan?

Concerns about water quality and pollution may have you thinking twice about diving straight in. And rightfully so.

This can be disappointing for the adventure seekers and nature lovers among us.

However, the good news is that there are plenty of places to swim and cliff jump safely. I spent 3 weeks exploring Lake Atitlan, so these spots have been tried and tested.

This post will highlight the best swimming spots around Lake Atitlan and general tips to maximize your safety.

It will also touch on the environmental challenges faced and highlight local initiatives dedicated to protecting this natural wonder.

Overview: Is it safe to swim in Lake Atitlan?

If you don’t have time to read the whole article, below is a quick overview of everything you need to know.

In short, yes, you can swim in Lake Atitlan. However, it is only safe in certain areas.

This is due to pollution and the presence of a bacteria known as cyanobacteria.

• Avoid swimming around large towns like San Pedro & Panajachel
• Avoid swimming around docks & piers
• The best place to swim is San Marcos & its Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve
• Smaller towns like Jaibalito & Tzununa are also good for swimming

A Brief History of Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan is the deepest lake in Central America. It was formed after a volcanic eruption approximately 84,000 years ago.

The collapse of the mouth of the volcano led to the creation of a caldera (a large crater).

Fed by two nearby rivers but not leading into the ocean, this led to the creation of Lake Atitlan as we know it.

Lake Atitlan water quality: What you need to know

Generally, the water in Lake Atitlan is safe for swimming. However, there are some issues of water pollution worth bearing in mind.

As the population around Lake Atitlan grows, pollution of the lake increases alongside it.

There is a huge issue of untreated wastewater (sewage) flowing directly into the lake, and a lack of infrastructure to prevent it. This is exacerbated by landslides and general litter.

This has led to outbreaks of algae bloom, also known as cyanobacteria. This bacteria feeds off the phosphorous and nitrate in the water.

Green in color, this not only affects the appearance and odor of the lake but threatens the potable water supply. It is only dangerous if ingested.

This ecological tragedy is detrimental to the communities that rely on the lake for their livelihoods. The first outbreak was in 2009, with a subsequent outbreak in 2015.

As of writing, when I visited in June 2024, there was no algae bloom and the water was safe for swimming. However, the situation is unpredictable so be sure to check with the locals.

Generally speaking though, this is an endorheic lake, meaning what goes in doesn’t come back out.

Whilst there are cleaner and safer parts which I will elaborate on below, bacteria and polluted waters are not something you can 100% avoid.

Lake Atitlan temperature

Never mind pollution, is Lake Atitlan even warm enough for swimming?

Lake Atitlan remains a pretty consistent temperature of 21°C / 70°F all year round. It is chilly, but certainly warm enough for a swim.

Swimming in Lake Atitlan: Safest & Best Spots

If you’re hoping to swim in Lake Atitlan on your Guatemalan adventure, knowing the safest spots is crucial.

As a general rule of thumb, avoid swimming around the large towns. This includes, but is not limited to, San Pedro, Panajachel, and Santa Cruz.

Due to their size, the water around these towns is generally more polluted. More people means more untreated wastewater and more dumping of litter.

Around these towns, I would instead recommend kayaking or SUPs.

Swimming around the smaller towns is generally safer. However, use your best judgment regarding the cleanliness of the water and check with the locals if you’re unsure.

Furthermore, even if you are in an area safe for swimming, such as San Marcos, always be sure to avoid swimming around the piers and docks.

This is for pretty obvious reasons. You do not want to get hit by passing boats that may not see you.

Lake Atitlan can also have strong undercurrents at times, depending on the wind. Don’t venture too far out and try to stay relatively close to the shore.

San Marcos La Laguna

San Marcos is known for having some of the cleanest water around Lake Atitlan.

It is home to the Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve, located on the edge of San Marcos village.

This nature reserve is covered in lush greenery and offers extraordinary views of Lake Atitlan and its surrounding volcanos. It is the perfect spot for nature lovers and hikers.

Must Read: Ultimate Guide To Lake Atitlan Cliff Jumping in San Marcos

However, the allure of the Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve is undoubtedly its crystal-clear waters and infamous cliff jump.

This 12-meter jump has become a rite of passage for adrenaline seekers and backpackers when visiting Guatemala.

Even if you are not so keen on jumping, this is the best place for swimming and allows you to appreciate Lake Atitlan from another perspective.

The waters are clean, the views are extraordinary, and there are plenty of places for sunbathing.

Smaller towns: Jaibalito & Tzununa

Swimming around the smaller towns is generally safer, as fewer people means less pollution.

Two stand-out towns for their clean water are Jaibalito and Tzununa. As well as being ideal for swimming, these quaint towns are both worth visiting in their own right.

Jaibalito

Jaibalito is located not far from Santa Cruz.

Unfortunately, I did not get a chance to visit, but research shows that boat traffic is minimal and the water is clean for swimming.

It is known for having one of the most picturesque accommodations around Lake Atitlan: La Casa del Mundo.

Tzununa

Tzununa is one of my favourite towns around Lake Atitlan. It is not far from the town of San Marcos.

This tiny village is becoming increasingly known for its permaculture, yoga spots, and stunning waterfall.

The village is rustic and not so developed, with a few farm-to-table restaurants and accommodations.

It is great for those who are attracted to the ‘hippie’ vibe of San Marcos but would prefer something more authentic. Tzununa does not attract many tourists so you will be mainly mingling with locals.

Must Read: Ultimate Guide To Tzununa: Lake Atitlan’s Hidden Gem

We stayed in Maya Moon Lodge located on the lakefront. I could not recommend it more.

It has its own area of private beach and is safe for swimming. You can also use SUPs or tubes from the hostel.

Playa La Finca

Playa La Finca is one of the only beaches around Lake Atitlan.

It is a sandy/pebbly black sand beach in between the villages of San Pedro and Santiago. Its remote location between the two means it does not attract many tourists.

Being fairly far from any big towns also means that the water here is clean and great for swimming.

You can reach this beach in about 45 minutes from San Pedro, by either kayaking or walking.

Must Read: Top 10 Must-Try San Pedro La Laguna Restaurants

Organized Tour

An organized tour is a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy the waters of Lake Atitlan without worry.

Kayak Guatemala (also known as Los Elementos Adventure Center) is located near Santa Cruz and the iconic Free Cerveza Hostel.

They offer a fantastic guided tour of Lake Atitlan by either kayak or SUP, which includes various cliff jumps ranging from 3 – 30 ft.

With a tour and professional guide, you can experience the magical waters of Lake Atitlan knowing with peace of mind that the water is safe for swimming.

Tips for swimming in Lake Atitlan

Wherever you decide to take a dip, there are some general tips to follow to ensure your safety –

• If you’re unsure about a swimming spot, always check with the locals
• Avoid putting your head under the water. When cliff jumping, try to avoid gargling water
• Stick close to the shore as there can be strong undercurrents – especially when there is bad weather
• Be sure to thoroughly shower after swimming to remove any potentially harmful bacteria
• Go swimming with someone else if possible
• Don’t swim with a weakened immune system – avoid it if you are sick, pregnant, or have open wounds

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Local initiatives

Lake Atitlan is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

In addition to its beauty, Lake Atitlan is also of deep spiritual significance to the Mayan communities that inhabit its shores.

The way of life and general well-being of these communities come under threat with the increased pollution of the lake. This is why education and the introduction of sustainable practices are so urgent.

Many charities and organizations are doing amazing work to protect the lake. This is in addition to grassroots initiatives led by indigenous women who aim to put pressure on local governments.

Some worth checking out and supporting are –

• Amigos del Lago
• Atitlan Sano
• The Atitlan Fund

As well as educating yourself, volunteering your time, or donating to one of these charities, be sure to check out initiatives in your hostel.

For example, the Free Cerveza Hostel offers a free beer for every bag of litter collected on the lake. This is a simple way to do your bit and have fun whilst doing so.

Where to stay in Lake Atitlan

When deciding on accommodation in Lake Atitlan, it is great to have an idea of which town you’d like to stay in.

Each town has a distinct charm and offers a unique experience for the traveler. It all depends on what kind of thing you’re into.

• San Pedro – backpacker town, delicious restaurants, buzzing nightlife, great jump-off point for hikes
• San Juan – 10 minutes from San Pedro, authentic local vibe, aesthetic artistic town, weaving & textiles
• San Marcos – hippie town, yoga retreats, vegan restaurants, 12-meter jump, nature reserve good for swimming
• Santa Cruz – amazing viewpoints, lake diving, chill vibes, less touristy
• Jaibalito – off-the-beaten-path, peace & tranquility, amazing views
• Panajachel – main transport hub, touristy, nature reserve, great nightlife
• Tzununa – local vibe, community spirit, very tranquil, farms, permaculture, & herbal medicine

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Where To Stay in Lake Atitlan: 9 UNMISSABLE Towns & Hotels

If you want to be near the action, I would recommend staying in the backpacker town of San Pedro.

Alternatively, if you’re hoping for a more tranquil and authentic experience, I would suggest Jaibalito.

Amigos – San Pedro

Amigos is the perfect place to stay for those traveling on a budget.

This is where I stayed when I was in San Pedro and I could not recommend it more.

Despite being called a hotel, Amigos has a hostel vibe. It is very social but certainly not a party hostel.

Depending on your budget, there is a choice of dorms or private rooms. The dorms are clean, spacious, and super affordable. There are two rooftops for socialising.

Amigos is perfectly located in the center of San Pedro, directly opposite the popular bar Sublime. The only downside to this is that it can get a little loud at night.

The price for dorms is 60Q ($8) per night and private rooms start at 300Q ($38).

La Casa del Mundo – Jaibalito

Set into the cliff’s edge, La Casa del Mundo is arguably the most magical and unique Lake Atitlan accommodation.

Located in Jaibalito, this is the perfect place to stay if you want tranquility, scenic views, and relaxation.

It can only be accessed by boat, giving it a secluded charm perfect for couples. All rooms have balconies, stunning lake views, and a traditional aesthetic.

La Casa del Mundo boasts exceptional facilities, including a spa, a lake-view hot tub, and lake access perfecting for swimming in Lake Atitlan.

Free Cerveza – Santa Cruz

Located in Santa Cruz, the Free Cerveza Hostel is a complete oasis of peace and tranquility.

With extraordinary views of Lake Atitlan and its surrounding volcanos, Free Cerveza offers private rooms or shared glamping tents.

I didn’t stay here myself as they book up days in advance, but I visited for the day and it was stunning.

The best part is, as a guest in the hostel, you get free use of the SUPs and kayaks. There are also many activities including yoga, hikes, and cooking classes.

As per the name, there is also free beer for half an hour each day which makes it great for socialising.

Private rooms start at 400Q ($50) per night and shared tents at 110Q ($14) per night.

Maya Moon Lodge – Tzununa

Located in the quiet town of Tzununa, Maya Moon Lodge is perfect for those looking to experience a more peaceful and authentic side of Lake Atitlan.

There is a choice of private rooms or dorms, with balconies, hammocks, and incredible views of Lake Atitlan.

They also have their own private beach with hammocks, perfect for swimming or sunbathing. They also offer free use of tubes and SUPs for rent.

Maya Moon Lodge feels worlds away from everything else and is great for those looking to unwind and relax in beautiful scenery.

Shared dorms are 150Q ($19) per night and private rooms start from 500Q ($64).

How to get to Lake Atitlan

Getting to Lake Atitlan is super straightforward and there are connections with most popular destinations in Guatemala.

The most common way to reach Lake Atitlan is from Guatemala City or Antigua. There are direct shuttles every day and the journey takes about 4 hours.

You can book directly with a tour agency or book online in advance here. Prices range from $20-$40.

Booking online is slightly more expensive but gives you peace of mind. If you prefer to book with a local tour agency I would recommend Marco.

He organised all our shuttles for us and guaranteed us the best price. You can contact him on this number +502 5437 6307.

Most shuttles will drop you in Panajachel and you will have to then take a boat to whichever town you’re staying in.

Alternatively, there are some direct shuttles to San Pedro or San Marcos.

Full Post: How To Get From Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan

FAQs

Is Lake Atitlan freshwater?

Yes, Lake Atitlan is a freshwater lake. It is fed by the Quiscab and Panajachel rivers.

Are there crocodiles in Lake Atitlan?

Fortunately, there are no crocodiles or alligators in Lake Atitlan. You will only find different species of fish, crabs, and some reptiles/amphibians.

None of these will cause you any harm and it is unlikely you will cross paths with any.

Can you snorkel in Lake Atitlan?

Yes, it is possible to snorkel and dive in Lake Atitlan.

Located in Santa Cruz, Ati Divers is the only PADI-certified dive school in Lake Atitlan. They offer courses, fun dives, and snorkeling.

This is a unique experience different from regular diving or snorkeling. You will not be welcomed by coral and tropical fish, but instead by freshwater marine life and volcanic rock formations.

What bacteria is in Lake Atitlan?

In recent years, Lake Atitlan has been affected by cyanobacteria, also known as algae bloom.

This is caused by pollution in the lake. There have been recent outbreaks in 2009 and 2015.

The situation is unpredictable however as of visiting and writing in 2024, the water is generally clean and safe for swimming.

How safe is Lake Atitlan?

Generally, the water in Lake Atitlan is safe for swimming, bearing in mind the tips and advice above.

With regard to safety in the towns themselves, there is no need to worry. Lake Atitlan is inhabited by some of the friendliest locals and crime is not a big problem.

One thing to bear in mind though is petty crime, mainly theft. However, this is applicable to anywhere you travel.

The same rules apply as with any destination; don’t be flashy with your belongings, avoid walking alone after dark, and trust your instincts.

What is the monster in Lake Atitlan?

Many Mayans believe in the myth of a serpent-like monster that lurks in the depths of Lake Atitlan.

This creature is known as Chakona and this local legend is said to explain the mysterious disappearances of local fishermen over the years.

Well, that’s it! Everything you need to know to safely swim in Lake Atitlan and have fun whilst doing so.

I would love to hear about your experience swimming in Lake Atitlan recently! Reach out to me on Instagram @smallgirl_bigbackpack

If you liked this post and you’ll be spending some time around Lake Atitlan, feel free to check out my other helpful posts –

• Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants in San Pedro La Laguna
• Where To Stay in Lake Atitlan: Best Towns & Hotels
• How To Get From Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan
• The Ultimate Guide To Lake Atitlan Cliff Jumping in San Marcos
• Ultimate Guide To Tzununa: Lake Atitlan’s Hidden Gem
• San Pedro La Laguna Nightlife: Top 5 BEST Bars
• Lake Atitlan Boat Schedule: Panajachel to San Pedro & Other Routes