How To Get Around Lake Atitlan: Boat Schedule & Popular Routes

Are you heading to Lake Atitlan?

This post provides the Lake Atitlan boat schedule and details popular routes, including how to get from Panajachel to San Pedro & other popular towns.

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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 quaint Mayan villages, Lake Atitlan offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Each town has a unique charm and you should be rightfully tempted to explore as many as you can.

Getting around Lake Atitlan by boat is very straightforward, but may feel a little confusing at first.

Isn’t it easier to take a tuk-tuk if it’s a short distance? How do I know which dock is the correct one? Are the boats even safe?

As well as the Lake Atitlan boat schedule, this post will detail all popular routes across the lake, including the dock location, price, and journey time.

Lake Atitlan Boat Schedule: Overview

In general, there is no set Lake Atitlan boat schedule – we are on Guatemalan time after all.

However, there are some general schedule times to help you plan accordingly –

If you’re coming from a busy town like Panajachel, you can expect the boat to fill and depart fairly promptly.

Likewise, if you’re coming from a quieter town, you might have to wait the full 30 minutes.

Unless you’re on the direct boat from Panajachel to San Pedro, you can expect the boat to stop at each village along the northern shoreline.

Whilst the direct boat would take about 30 minutes, you can expect the journey from one side to the other to take about an hour with these stops.

However, Lake Atitlan boats are a unique experience in themselves.

Sit back, enjoy the scenery, and get a glimpse into the lives of locals – it certainly beats regular rush hour traffic!

Lake Atitlan Towns Map

Below is a helpful map showing the location of each of the towns mentioned in this post and their respective docks –

What on earth is a ‘lancha’?

Lancha is simply the Spanish word for the small motorized boat used to get across Lake Atitlan.

They are the safest, fastest, and most efficient way of getting around Lake Atitlan. In between most towns, it is the only means of transport, as the roads are non-existent.

Each town has a dock where the boats depart and arrive. You do not need to pre-book tickets and can simply turn up at the dock to purchase.

Someone working at the dock will direct you onto the correct boat.

Note: some accommodations (such as Free Cerveza or Maya Moon Lodge) have their own docks. Be sure to check with your accommodation in advance.

If you’ve got concerns about the cost, comfort, or safety of the lanchas, below are some things worth knowing –

Comfort

Each boat can hold between 10 and 20 passengers.

It can get quite crowded during peak times, so I would avoid traveling during the morning or evening ‘rush hour’.

The boats travel fast and the journey can be quite bumpy. The benches are hard and not the most comfortable, but they do the job.

There is space for bags in the bow of the boat. But generally, try to travel light.

If it is raining, there are plastic flaps that come down to stop you from getting wet. There is also a waterproof cover for the bags.

Safety

Lifejackets will not be given to passengers, but they are available upon request. Ask at the dock before boarding.

Avoid traveling during bad weather conditions. Likewise, the lake can be choppier in the late afternoon, so travel in the morning if you can.

Each boat has two staff members; the driver and the person who will take your money and help with your bags.

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Cost

Lanchas are super affordable. Fares range from 10 – 30 quetzals depending on the distance.

Although I did not experience this, there have been reports of tourists being overcharged compared to locals. Have a rough idea of the standard fare to avoid this.

Try to have small bills, as they rarely have change for big notes.

A return ticket is cheaper, however, this is not accepted if you are returning the following day.

In San Pedro, I always paid for my ticket at the dock before boarding. However, from other towns, I was given a ticket but did not pay until I arrived.

Popular Routes: Panajachel to San Pedro & Other Towns

You can rest assured that there are boats connecting all villages around Lake Atitlan, whether big or small.

Panajachel is the main transport hub for Lake Atitlan as it is the best connected by road.

Whichever village you’re staying in around Lake Atitlan, you will likely have to make your way from Panajachel first.

Unless you take a direct boat, the Lake Atitlan boat route from Panajachel is as follows –

Panajachel – Santa Cruz – Jaibalito – Tzununa – San Marcos – San Pablo – San Juan – San Pedro

There are two docks in Panajachel. If you are going to any of the above destinations, you need the most popular dock which is at the end of Calle del Embarcadero (LOCATION).

If you are heading to Santiago, the boat goes in the opposite direction and you will need the other dock. This is at the end of Calle del Rio (LOCATION).

Panajachel to San Pedro La Laguna

As Lake Atitlan’s popular ‘backpacker’ town, San Pedro is the place to be if you want to be in the center of the action.

It is well located to visit the other towns and is a great jumping-off point for nearby hikes. It is known for its delicious restaurants, cheap hostels, and buzzing nightlife.

There are two options coming from Panajachel to San Pedro –

• Direct boat: 30 minutes, 30Q
• Indirect boat stopping at each village: 1 hour, 30Q

Let the people at the dock know that you want the direct service and they will be sure to direct you to the correct boat.

Suggested: Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants in San Pedro La Laguna

Panajachel to San Juan La Laguna

Located just 10 minutes away from San Pedro, San Juan is a vibrant town that has a distinctly local vibe and significantly fewer tourists.

It is a great place to learn more about Mayan culture. It is known for its colorful artwork in the streets, traditional weaving, and stunning handicrafts.

If you want to get from Panajachel to San Juan, you have two options –

• Direct boat to San Pedro: 30 minutes, 30Q | Tuk-tuk to San Juan: 10 minutes, 10Q
• Indirect boat stopping at each village: 6 stops, 1 hour, 30Q

I would suggest taking the direct boat to San Pedro and then a tuk-tuk to San Juan as the fastest option.

However, it is worth bearing in mind that the tuk-tuks cannot cross towns. As in, a tuk-tuk from San Pedro cannot enter the town of San Juan.

This means that you will be left just outside the town and have to walk the remaining few minutes to your accommodation or find another tuk-tuk.

If you’ve got lots of luggage, perhaps take the longer indirect boat for convenience.

Panajachel to Santa Cruz La Laguna

Santa Cruz is the nearest town to Panajachel. As it is fairly hilly, it is known for its viewpoints that offer extraordinary views of Lake Atitlan.

It is a quiet town without many tourists and is home to the iconic Free Cerveza hostel. It is the place to be if you are interested in free diving in Lake Atitlan.

Getting from Panajachel to Santa Cruz is super straightforward –

• Journey time: 10 minutes
• Cost: 10Q

Note: if you are staying in the Free Cerveza hostel, let the driver know as they have their own private dock

Panajachel to San Marcos La Laguna

San Marcos is know as Lake Atitlan’s ‘hippie town’.

It is known for vegan restaurants, yoga & meditation classes, and its spiritual community. It is the most Westernized of all the Lake Atitlan towns.

The jewel in San Marcos’ crown is the Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve, the best place for swimming and cliff jumping in Lake Atitlan.

The only way to make the journey from Panajachel to San Marcos is by indirect boat –

• Journey time: 45 minutes, 4 stops
• Cost: 25Q

Recommended: Can You Swim in Lake Atitlan? EVERYTHING You Need To Know

Panajachel to Santiago Atitlan

Santiago Atitlan is the oldest town around Lake Atitlan and therefore holds the most cultural and historical significance.

It is known for its vibrant art scene, particularly wood carvings. It is also home to Maximon; a folk saint who represents the blend of Maya spirituality and Catholicism.

Getting from Panajachel to Santiago is slightly different to the above destinations, as you will be going in the other direction.

You will also need to head to a different dock in Panajchel (LOCATION).

• Journey time: 45 minutes
• Cost: 25 Q

Other routes: San Pedro to San Marcos & Other Towns

If you’re looking to get from San Pedro to other destinations around the lake, follow the same instructions but in reverse.

San Pedro – San Juan – San Pablo – San Marcos – Tzununa – Jaibalito – Santa Cruz – Panajachel

Like Panajachel, there are also two docks in San Pedro. For the above destinations, head to the most popular dock near Alegre Pub (LOCATION).

If you’re heading to Santiago Atitlan, you will need the other dock which is a bit of a walk away (LOCATION).

San Pedro to San Marcos

• Journey time: 15 minutes
• Cost: 10Q

San Pedro to Santiago Atitlan

• Journey time: 10 minutes
• Cost: 10Q

Other ways to get around Lake Atitlan

Whilst lancha is the fastest and most efficient way to get around Lake Atitlan, there are a couple more options depending on how near the towns are located to each other.

Tuk-Tuk

As the roads between towns are practically non-existent, tuk-tuks for long distances are not possible.

However, if you’re traveling a short distance, it is sometimes easier. You can take a tuk-tuk between the following towns –

• San Pedro – San Juan
• San Marcos – Tzununa

Hiking

Another great way of getting between towns is by hiking. Between which towns you can hike entirely depends on how big a walk you’re up for.

Some examples are –

• San Pedro – San Juan
• San Pedro / San Juan – Santa Clara (Indian Nose hike)
• San Marcos – Tzununa
• Santa Cruz – Jaibalito
• San Marcos – Santa Cruz (via Tzununa & Jaibalito)

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

What time do boats start Lake Atitlan?

Whilst there is not a set Lake Atitlan boat schedule, the boats start running at 6 AM every day.

How late do boats run Lake Atitlan?

The boats run into the early evening. The last boat departs Panajachel at 7:30 PM, and at roughly 5 PM from other towns.

How long is the ferry from Panajachel to San Pedro?

There are two options to get from Panajachel to San Pedro; direct boat and indirect boat that stops at each different village.

The Panajachel boat time is 30 minutes by direct boat, while the indirect boat takes roughly an hour.

Is Panajachel worth it?

Panajachel is the main transport hub and the gateway to Lake Atitlan.

Panajachel is well geared towards tourism and is the best spot to organise tours and trips to other towns. There are also many great hostels, restaurants, and bars.

However, what makes Panajachel so worthwhile is its stunning Atitlan Nature Reserve.

How long is the boat ride from Panajachel to San Marcos?

The boat ride from Panajachel to San Marcos takes approximately 45 minutes.

Can you walk from San Pedro to San Juan?

Yes, it is possible to walk from San Pedro to San Juan. It takes approximately 1 hour.

What is the best time to visit Lake Atitlan, Guatemala?

If you’re hoping for great weather, the best time to visit Lake Atitlan is in the dry season, between November – April.

You are (almost) always guaranteed clear days, sunshine, and a buzzing atmosphere.

Visiting during the rainy season is still a fantastic experience, and sometimes preferable as there are less tourists and prices are lower.

I visited in June and we generally had great weather. The mornings were clear and there were occasional showers in the afternoons.

Well, there you have it! This post has detailed the Lake Atitlan boat schedule and has detailed popular routes to you know exactly how to get around Lake Atitlan.

If you found this post helpful, I would love to hear your experience. Drop me a message on Instagram and let me know how it went @smallgirl_bigbackpack

If you enjoyed this post and you’ll be spending some time around Lake Atitlan, feel free to check out the following –

• 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
• Can you swim in Lake Atitlan? EVERYTHING You Need To Know