La Aventura

This is the first blog post that I find myself more excited about choosing the pictures for the post than writing the post itself. The reason why is because each and everyone of these hotels that I am about to share are absolutely stunning…seriously, they are like something out of a story book.

Anyone who is planning a trip to Guatemala, knows that Lago de Atitlán (Lake Atitlán) should be on their itinerary! This beautiful volcanic, crater lake can be found in the Guatemalan Highlands of the Sierra Madre mountain range. Known as the deepest lake in Central America, Lake Atitlán is home to eleven unique villages, that are spread around the lake’s shore. The only way to travel between these villages is by water taxi. Travelers can enjoy immersing themselves in nature and culture through hiking, water excursions, or exploring the villages, however, one of the best parts of being on the lake is the unique stays that it offers. Here are a few of my favorites:

La Casa del Mundo

Nestled in the cliffs of the village of El Jaibalito, La Casa del Mundo is one of the most magical hotels on Lake Atitlán. A mix of traditional Guatemalan and medieval architecture, La Casa del Mundo makes one feel as if they have been transported into a fairy tale. The hotel has an onsite restaurant and offers a variety of outdoor excursions and water sports. Instead of a typical pool, the hotel has several balconies where guests can jump, dive, or simply relax lake side and enjoy the spectacular views.

I was so mesmerized by the beauty of this hotel and its’ grounds, that I forgot to take a picture of myself there! I just wanted to take it all in and store it in my long term memory. This was by far one of the most unique places I have ever stayed! Room rates range from $60-100 USD per night.

A pro tip: La Casa del Mundo is built high in the cliffs, which means there is a trek of about 100+ steps from the dock to the hotel main lobby. The staff are so kind and carry your bags, on their backs, up the steps, but not you! Be prepared to climb a couple flights of stairs.

Tzampoc Resort

Another gem along the lake is Tzampoc Resort. Located in Santa Catarina Palopó, a city in the cliffs above Lake Atitlán, Tzampoc is the place to be if you are looking for a luxe lake experience. While we did not stay at this hotel, we were still able to enjoy its’ pool, bar and views, by purchasing a day pass ($25 USD). Passes are limited each day, so be sure to purchase them in advance. We were so lucky we had the whole place to ourselves for several hours before others arrived! The resort offers stunning views of the Sierra Madre Mountain and Lake Atitlán, making it the perfect place to wind down after days of outdoors adventures.

A pro tip: Make sure your taxi drives you ALL the way up the hill to the resort’s main entrance and not just the hotel’s gate. Be sure to give the hotel a heads up that you are on the way, so they can keep an eye out for you. They can send some staff to the gate to drive you up via golf cart if your taxi driver will not.

La Fortuna

An eco-hotel located in Patzisotz Bay, between the villages of Panajachel and Santa Cruz, La Fortuna was my favorite stay during our time at Lake Atitlán. The hotel offers a one of a kind experience, with bungalow style rooms hidden within the property’s jungle. One of the coolest parts of the bungalows were their outdoor bathrooms. Well.. it was cool until it was 1am and I had to swat away BIG bugs while trying to pee. After night one, I learned my lesson and held it till morning for the rest of our stay ha-ha.

In the center of the property is the main office bungalow, where there is a bar, pool, and restaurant. This is truly a place to do nothing but enjoy good vibes and great company.

A pro tip: Wake up early! There are so many awesome view points at this hotel to watch the sunrise over the lake.