Tzununa, Lake Atitlan: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Are you planning a trip to Tzununa, Lake Atitlan?

This post will detail everything you need to know about Lake Atitlan’s hidden gem, including things to do, how to get there, where to eat, and where to stay.

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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.

Nestled on these pristine shores, Tzununa is a hidden gem offering tranquility, natural beauty, and a more authentic experience of Lake Atitlan.

Tzununa is known for its focus on eco-tourism, sustainability, and community cooperation driven by a desire to live in harmony with nature.

Maybe you’re interested in learning more about permaculture, herbal medicine, and simple living?

Or perhaps you’re driven to the spiritual vibe of neighboring San Marcos but are looking for a less commercialized environment to practice yoga or meditation?

Or are you simply looking to get off the beaten path, spend time in nature, and enjoy a slower pace?

Whatever you’re into, this post will detail everything you need to know about Tzununa, for a unique and unforgettable experience of Lake Atitlan.

Why visit Tzununa?

Tzununa is one of the smallest villages around Lake Atitlan, not far from the popular San Marcos.

It does not attract many tourists and therefore offers a more authentic and peaceful experience. It is great for travelers looking to get off the beaten path and enjoy a slower pace.

The Kaqchikel Maya Indigenous group mainly inhabits Tzununa, alongside a small handful of foreigners dedicated to living off the land.

Contrary to other destinations around Lake Atitlan, there is a deep feeling of community spirit and cooperation between the locals and ex-pats.

This is most prominent in areas of sustainability, agriculture, and handicrafts.

Foreigners bring new opportunities and resources, while the locals contribute their invaluable knowledge of the land and traditions.

The exchange of skills and knowledge has led to a mutually beneficial environment that works in harmony with nature and allows for the community to thrive.

This unique dynamic makes Tzununa well worth a visit for environmental enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in community initiatives.

Things to do in Tzununa

Tzununa is a nature lover’s paradise.

The serene atmosphere surrounded by untouched nature makes it the perfect destination for hiking, meditation, yoga, and wellness retreats.

Tzununa is known for its focus on eco-tourism and sustainability, great for those interested in permaculture, herbal medicine, and community initiatives.

Take a Permaculture, Herbology, or Mushroom Cultivation Course

Tzununa is the perfect destination to expand your knowledge on permaculture, herbology, or mushroom cultivation.

If you’re looking to connect deeper with the natural world and learn more about living in harmony with the land, there are many amazing courses in Tzununa Lake Atitlan.

Depending on how much time you have to spare, some courses and retreats span over weeks, while others are simply for the day –

• Granja Tzi’kin – permaculture courses, internship & volunteering programs, farm tours, community storefront
• Funghi Academy – courses about mushroom cultivation, fungal ecology & psychedelics, online courses, retreats
• Atitlan Organics – permaculture & yoga teacher training courses, 1-day farm tour, online courses
• Casa Curativa – herbalism courses, one-day workshops, herbal retreats

Hike to Tzununa Waterfall

Hiking to Tzununa waterfall is one of the best things to do in Tzununa Lake Atitlan.

From the center of town, it takes about half an hour to reach the waterfall. The walk itself is beautiful through lush greenery.

When you reach the waterfall, there is a small cascade of water over an impressive boulder. However, it is worth bearing in mind that there is nowhere to swim.

Gaia Dance Temple

The iconic Gaia Dance Temple is known for its ecstatic dance every Sunday.

This community space brings like-minded people from all over the world together for a magical evening of dance.

The experience begins with a cacao ceremony, before amazing DJs and dance to see you into the night. There is also optional use of the sauna.

Not just Sundays, be sure to check out other events and workshops throughout the week. There is an on-site restaurant and the option to stay overnight too.

Yoga, Meditation & Ceremonies

Whilst neighboring San Marcos is known for its yoga, Tzununa’s yoga scene is certainly evolving too.

There are a couple of spots for yoga and meditation, with amazing views of Lake Atitlan.

Furthermore, many places offer multi-day retreats and workshops for a more holistic experience. Many ceremonies include age-old wisdom and incorporate Mayan traditional practices.

Check out the following –

• Doron Yoga / Saasil Retreat Center – daily yoga classes, yoga teacher training, meditation & zen center, retreats, temazcal ceremonies
• Yoga Freedom Retreats – lakefront yoga classes, yoga retreats, meditation classes, Mayan astrology readings
• Lomas de Tzununa – wellness & retreat center, yoga classes, meditation, sound healing, lakefront swimming pool, Mayan handicrafts

Hike to San Marcos or Jaibalito

Tzununa Guatemala is fantastic for hiking, with many trails nestled within the lush greenery.

Two popular hikes are to the neighboring towns of San Marcos and Jaibalito. Both hikes involve walking along the lakefront and offer extraordinary views of Lake Atitlan and its volcanos.

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San Marcos

Hiking to San Marcos is a relatively short walk, it should take no longer than 45 minutes.

San Marcos is known as Lake Atitlan’s ‘hippie town’ and is much more developed than Tzununa. There are many amazing vegan restaurants, yoga schools, and a gorgeous nature reserve.

I personally did not like San Marcos as it felt super Westernized. However, the Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve makes it well worth a visit.

This nature reserve has the cleanest water if you’re hoping to swim in Lake Atitlan. It is also where you will find the iconic 12-meter jump.

Must Read: Is it safe to swim in Lake Atitlan? EVERYTHING You Need To Know

Jaibalito

Hiking from Tzununa to Jaibalito is a longer walk than to San Marcos. It can take up to two hours.

This walk is also a bit more hilly and involves some steep parts at times. It is, therefore, a bit more physically demanding, but should be fine for anyone with regular fitness.

Unfortunately, I did not get a chance to visit Jaibalito. However, I have heard great things, especially about La Casa del Mundo – one of the nicest places to stay around Lake Atitlan.

Swimming

Unlike the other bigger towns, the water around the smaller villages is much cleaner and safer for swimming.

The water around Tzununa is one of the best places to swim in Lake Atitlan.

Notable places to take a dip are –

• Maya Moon Lodge – private beach area & deck, free use of tubes for guests, SUPs for rent
• Lomas de Tzununa – access to the lake, ceremonies by the water

Where to eat in Tzununa

If you’re a fan of healthy, organic, and locally sourced food, you will be in your element in Tzununa.

Tzununa is a beautiful community space where local farms and vendors sell and exchange their produce, leading to freshness and quality of flavor.

Food is also that much tastier knowing that sustainable practices have been used in growing it and you are supporting the local community by eating it.

These Tzununa restaurants are also perfect for vegans and vegetarians.

Granja Tzi’kin

Granka Tzi’kin is the ultimate farm-to-table restaurant in Tzununa for homemade sustainably sourced food.

I ended up having both breakfast and lunch (and dessert) at Granja Tzi’kin as I loved the vibe of the place. Located up high, there are also extraordinary views of Lake Atitlan whilst you dine.

Note: I had the embodiment bowl (55Q), cacao smoothie (30Q), and apple & blackberry crumble (35Q).

All food is freshly prepared, organic, and GMO-free. All dishes on the menu are hearty, full of goodness, and will be sure to fill you up for a day of exploring.

Granja Tzi’kin maintains a bio-intensive veggie garden and everything on the farm is integrated.

The farm and veggie garden directly supply the on-site restaurant. This guarantees the freshness and flavor of the goat’s cheese, eggs, and seasonal greens and herbs.

After your meal, you can take some time to explore the veggie garden and speak to the staff about their sustainable practices.

Tip: Granja Tzi’kin offers a farm tour (based on donation) every Wednesday at noon for those who want to learn more and meet the animals. However, whatever day you visit be sure to enquire.

Granja Tzi’kin also strives to become a community space that brings like-minded individuals together.

They host a pizza night each Saturday, with authentic wood-fired pizza. This is frequently then followed by DJs or musicians, so it is worth swinging by.

This Tzununa restaurant is also proud to showcase its community storefront. The idea is to connect and support other ecological providers.

Other producers in the community, trained in sustainable techniques, now supply the restaurant and storefront with products from their farms.

The organic products offered by Granja in the restaurant and to purchase are therefore constantly evolving.

Los Trece Cielos

Trece Cielos is one of the most unique restaurants around Lake Atitlan. It is a must-visit in Tzununa.

If you thought this art cafe and restaurant looked funky from the outside, wait until you venture inside. Creatives will feel right at home here.

Everything in the restaurant is built with reused/recycled items, creating a unique space bursting with colour. The kitchen itself has been designed out of an old school bus.

The menu is as vibrant and imaginative as the decor, with extensive plant-based options perfect for vegans or vegetarians.

Trece Cielos offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as light snacks and desserts. They also have a fantastic drinks and coffee menu.

Tip: I have heard raving reviews about their cacao bliss balls (15Q) and peanut rice noodle vegetable bowl (65Q).

Trece Cielos also hosts a range of events, including open mic nights, live musicians, art exhibitions, and an art & craft market every Thursday.

Furthermore, downstairs there is an amazing shop full of handmade handicrafts and second-hand clothing.

Love Probiotics

Mainly a store but recently evolving into a restaurant, Love Probiotics produces plant-based, live, locally sourced, fermented probiotic foods and beverages.

Love Probiotics is built on the philosophy that live foods improve our digestion, boost our immune system, and help our general sense of well-being.

All products are totally homemade and 99% sourced from local Guatemalan markets and producers. These products are distributed and sold across Guatemala.

Noteworthy products include kombucha, peanut butter, kimchi, sauerkraut, sourdough bread, hot sauces, and apple cider vinegar.

If you’re visiting Tzununa Guatemala, you cannot miss Love Probiotics pizza night every Friday from 1 -6 PM.

They have a beautiful garden space and all pizzas are made with sourdough bases, local veg, and optional farm products from other vendors in the community (including Granja & Atitlan Organics).

Of course, there are delicious vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options too.

Where to stay in Tzununa

Tzununa is home to some of the most beautiful and unique accommodations around Lake Atitlan.

Most feel totally secluded in nature and offer breathtaking lake views. They have been built with sustainability in mind and work in harmony with the natural surroundings.

These accommodations prioritise eco-tourism and wellness, with some doubling as retreats and offering a range of amenities to help you disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature.

Maya Moon Lodge

Located on the lakefront, Maya Moon Lodge is one of the best places to stay in Tzununa.

This is where I stayed when visiting Tzununa and I could not recommend it more. It is great for those traveling on a budget.

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

They have an amazing restaurant and a beautiful garden space, perfect for those looking to unwind and appreciate the beautiful scenery.

However, the highlight is certainly their own private beach area, one of the best spots to swim in Lake Atitlan.

There are beachfront hammocks for relaxing, as well as a deck perfect for sunbathing. They also offer free use of tubes and SUPs for rent.

Maya Moon Lodge feels like a secluded slice of paradise and is one of the best places to stay around Lake Atitlan.

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

Casa Curativa

Casa Curativa is not just a gorgeous place to stay, but a unique space based on permaculture principles and herbal medicine.

This garden oasis is surrounded by a labyrinth of medicinal plants and veggies. It has its very own temazcal sauna, cold plunge pool, yoga space, and fire circle.

Whether you’re simply looking for a place to stay, or are looking to expand your knowledge of herbal medicine, this is the perfect accommodation in Tzununa.

Casa Curativa offers retreats, as well as workshops and courses.

Artistically-inspired carpentry and cozy interior decor make this one of the most imaginative, creative, and beautiful places to stay around Lake Atitlan.

Each type of accommodation is totally unique and therefore offers a slightly different experience. However, the main goal remains; to connect deeper with nature.

The cheapest cabin starts at $40 a night, while the most expensive lodge starts at $100 a night.

The Seed Habitat

One of the most luxurious yet eco-conscious places to stay in Tzununa is The Seed Habitat.

The Seed Habitat is a unique eco estate featuring one villa and two cottages. This accommodation boasts sustainable architecture, abundant edible and medicinal gardens, and a personal spring water source.

Perfect for personal or private retreats, there is also a lake view yoga shala, a Mayan temazcal sauna, a natural plunge pool, and a massage cabin.

All accommodations have been built with sustainability in mind, embrace indoor-outdoor living, and unite nature with luxury.

Prices range from $75 for a cabin and $300 for a villa per night.

How to get to Tzununa

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 and will set you back between $20 – $40.

One option is to take a direct shuttle to San Marcos and then take a 15-minute tuk-tuk to Tzununa.

Alternatively, you can take a shuttle to Panajachel (the main transport hub) and then take a boat across to Tzununa.

Recommended: How To Get From Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan: 3 Different Ways

Other destinations around Lake Atitlan

While Tzununa is a great place to base yourself when exploring Lake Atitlan, there are many other amazing towns.

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

Some of the towns I visited and would recommend are –

• San Pedro – the ‘backpacker town’, delicious restaurants, buzzing nightlife, great jump-off point for hikes
• San Juan – 10 minutes from San Pedro, local vibe, cute aesthetic town with pretty art, weaving & textiles
• San Marcos – ‘hippie town’, yoga retreats, vegan restaurants, super Westernised, 12-meter jump, good for swimming
• Santa Cruz – amazing viewpoints, lake diving, chill vibes, less touristy
• Panajachel – main transport hub, touristy, nature reserve, great nightlife

FULL DETAILS: Where To Stay in Lake Atitlan: 9 UNMISSABLE Towns & Hotels

Well, there you have it! This post has detailed everything you need to know about Tzununa; Lake Atitlan’s hidden gem and eco-tourism paradise.

If you head to Tzununa, I’d love to hear how it went! Reach out to me on Instagram @smallgirl_bigbackpack

If you liked this post and will be spending some time in Lake Atitlan, feel free to check out the following –

• Can you swim in Lake Atitlan? EVERYTHING You Need To Know
• Where To Stay in Lake Atitlan: 9 UNMISSABLE Towns & Hotels
• Lake Atitlan Boat Schedule: Panajachel to San Pedro & Other Routes
• Ultimate Guide To Lake Atitlan Cliff Jumping in San Marcos
• San Pedro La Laguna Nightlife: Top 5 BEST Bars
• How To Get From Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan: 3 Different Ways
• Top 10 Must-Visit Restaurants in San Pedro La Laguna