San Marcos La Laguna
A holistic, yoga-minded village with a quieter feel than San Pedro: workshops, healers and cafés. A steep stone path climbs from the dock. Cerro Tzankujil, a community-managed nature reserve about five minutes' walk from the dock, has forest trails, swimming spots, a Maya altar on the hill and a jumping platform about 12 meters above the water, with a lifeguard on duty. Entry for foreign visitors is roughly Q20, in cash only, and it is usually open from about 8:00 am until late afternoon. Go in the morning, when the water is calmer, and jump feet first. San Marcos has one ATM, and it can be empty.
San Pablo La Laguna
A working town with a public dock, between San Marcos and San Juan.
San Juan La Laguna
A painted, quieter town known for women-led weaving cooperatives that use backstrap looms, organic cotton and plant dyes, plus coffee, chocolate and local painters. Demonstrations are usually free. Buy directly from the cooperatives, and leave a small donation if you watch without buying.
San Pedro La Laguna
The busiest hub on this shore: Spanish schools, budget hostels, lively food and nightlife, and the trailhead for San Pedro Volcano. San Juan and San Marcos are a short, cheap boat ride away.
Santiago Atitlán
The largest Tz'utujil Maya town, on the south shore, with a daily market and the shrine of Maximón (see Culture and respect). Its history includes massacres by government forces, and many people here carry those memories. Visit with humility. Boats from Panajachel take 30 to 40 minutes.
Last checked October 2026. Fees, fares and hours change, so confirm anything that matters.