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5-Day Panajachel Itinerary
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Updated • updatedAug 20, 2025
Panajachel in 5 days
If you only have 5 days to spend in Panajachel, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
With favorites like Pana Rock, Circus Bar, and Tuscani, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like Pana Rock and Dao Thai so you can get the best taste of Panajachel while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Panajachel?
Visiting Panajachel? See our Panajachel Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
Day 1
Most popular attractions
For day 1, we strategically grouped the most popular attraction, Calle Santander, with surrounding point of interests to start your trip off with a bang. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 7 hours of your day.
1
•Rip P — Google reviewJuni R — Google reviewLiz G — Google reviewV B — Google reviewRodney N — Google reviewBrian F — Google reviewTyler — Google review
Reserva Natural Atitlán
4.6
(2076)
4.5
(870)
Nature preserve
Campground
Event venue
Hotel
Reserva Natural Atitlán, a former coffee plantation turned nature reserve, offers a variety of activities for visitors. The reserve features a butterfly garden, walking trails, and thrilling zip lines that provide breathtaking views of waterfalls, canyons, forests, volcanoes, and the lake. There are two circuits available for ziplining suitable for both kids and adults.
Lovely nature reserve. If you’re doing the ultra zip lining be warned it’s got some intense hiking uphill. Zip lining views were incredible but the hike up was rough. This place is a great visit.
Krystal C — Google review
Cute nature reserve with different fun activities. We walked through the butterfly dome (mariposario), through all of the bridges (fun but not recommended if you’re afraid of heights), and enjoyed pupusas from the restauran. I highly recommend it and it’s worth the GTQ80 per person. We did not stay in the hotel.
We did not stay in the hostel, but we did the Ultra X-Tremos zipline. Online they stress how important it is that you're a half hour early, but the guides were half an hour late. Not a huge deal since the guides were professional and clearly very knowledgeable. We felt safe and had a great time. I would recommend booking tickets online in advance.
I stumbled across the nature reserve when exploring. It was only 20Q to enter and well worth it! The mirador was insane! I went pretty early so nobody else was around and got to sit in the sun and journal on a bench with the most stunning view as my background!
Came here for the zip line and had such a great time. Thank you to the guides Alfredo and Moises, they were so kind and great with instructions! This was our first time ziplining, we did the ultra (longer hike but 100% worth it). We got to see some monkeys on the way up, they threw them some bananas. The butterfly exhibit was amazing and the beach had a nice quiet view of the lake.
Beautiful spot, full of lush jungle vegetation and hanging bridges, and trails that make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a jungle adventure film. The hike up to the waterfall was especially stunning and easy. the falls are an Instagram backdrop.
Now, full disclosure: I may have accidentally created a wildlife incident. I tried out my best monkey call (clearly a hidden talent of mine), and suddenly every tourist on the trail froze in anticipation, cameras ready, whispering, “Monkeys!” … only to find out it was just me being me. Sorry, folks.
The food at the lodge was ok, but nothing to write home about. The real surprise was the butterflies exhibit. It was great with our kids.
Not going to do the zipline as I'm way to chicken. I'll stick to chicken noises.
Worth a visit—for the views, the bridges, and maybe a laugh if you catch another amateur primate impersonator.
Beautiful park with an enclosed butterfly exhibit. Trails through the forest to a waterfall. Small little beach on the lake for bathing. Highly recommend if in Pana :)
Lot of trash in the water for a reserve especially for charging Q80. Reserves should be held to a higher standard in maintaining the environment. Thats what the money is for. Also no monkeys or any animals. Maybe bad timing. Butterfly dome was the best part but not worth the price.
Antigua Finca San Buenaventura, Panajachel 07010, Guatemala•
3 min · 1.1 mi
2•Samuel C — Google reviewOlivia — Google reviewHannah K — Google reviewSun J — Google reviewMaryna B — Google reviewRuben K — Google reviewJi S — Google review
Café Loco Coffee Roasters
4.8
(922)
5.0
(376)
Temporarily Closed
cheap
Coffee shop
Café Loco Coffee Roasters is a small Korean-owned coffee shop in Panajachel that has gained a reputation for its exceptional coffee and talented team. The owners, who are two passionate Korean gentlemen, have been running the business for almost a decade and their dedication to quality is evident in the in-house roasted beans and extensive menu. Visitors rave about the friendly baristas, unique drink options, and especially recommend trying their cold brew and iced lattes.
The best coffee in Panajachel is brewed here. They roast their own coffee, and the service is top notch. Don’t leave Pana before trying this local spot.
Lisa B — Google review
The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable about coffee. My wife and I got the iced mint chocolate coffee and iced dirty chai. Both drinks were one of the best we've ever had. The coffee had a full body and was not over powered by the milk or mint chocolate. The dirty chai had a well balanced spice and smooth flavor. The price to quality ratio for the bulk coffee beans was out of this world. Would highly recommend!
Had to go back a second time. Got the Incredible Hulk (mint and chocolate latte - 18Q) and the mocha (20Q). Both were amazing. I don’t normally like sweet drinks but they were well balanced.
Amazing coffee shop, do such good chai lattes and hot chocolates. Quick service and very good price, cheapest I’ve found In Guatemala so far (so this quality of coffee) 20Q for most things. Do alternative milks too. Super tasty
It's a small coffee shop and roasting place. They selected exceptional beans from Atitlan Lake area and loasted it professionally.
All staffs are very kind.
It's definitely recommended.
very welcoming staff - they help you with any question , politely and with smile 👍
I had capuchino with soya milk - be honest , I do not like taste of milk ( even I drink alternative milk everywhere - this one was a bit different . that’s why I can’t understand well taste of coffee)
maybe I should come back for other options )
they accept only cash 💵
A delightful coffee shop, full of pro baristas serving Guatemalan coffee, that by many is considered one of the best in the world.
The coffee is balanced, not too acidic, sweet with flowery notes. The lattes, macchiatos and cold brew with ice were one of the best we have ever tried. A wall proudly displaying their awards tells the whole story.
We left with 5 bags of their beans. 🤘
My husband found this place!
One of the things he did really well!
Coffee taste so bomb and chill vibe!! I asked them where the coffee beans are from and they showed in picture of lake map
I'm proud of them cause they are Korean😆😆👍👍👍👍
사장님 커피 진짜 맛있어요!! 건강하시고 오래장사하세요!
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
5 min · 0.27 mi
3•Cafian A — Google reviewAC — Google reviewAisha A — Google reviewChristine W — Google reviewMackensie S — Google reviewAyrianna W — Google reviewStefan F — Google review
The Little Spoon
4.5
(694)
4.7
(49)
Restaurant
The Little Spoon is a rooftop restaurant located in the heart of Panajachel. The staff is known for being super friendly and the atmosphere is described as very chill. While the menu has limited options, they do offer dairy-free milk for drinks. Some visitors highly recommend their cappuccino and martini, while others praise their watermelon and mint smoothie as one of the best they've ever had.
This was a pick up location for a shuttle I took and decided to have breakfast here too, well worth it! I ate on the terrace which looks out onto a main street. Food and coffee were both delicious and well priced.
Rachel — Google review
The music here puts you in a vibe to receive the food. The menu is small but there is something for everyone. The food is beyond tasty and the pepper sauce adds lovely variance to the meal. The restaurant is upstairs and has two floors. The waiters speak fluent English and are really pleasant
Amazing food! Most polite and friendly staff ever. Everyone has the biggest smiles. Creative smoothies and beautiful food with unique options. Hummin' toast was phenomenal. My partner had Bella's beats toasts.
Great little spot! Loved the food and especially the green smoothie. Just wish my time was longer in Panajachel to try more items on the menu! 100% recommend!
LOVED everything about this place. Great location with rooftop patio, delicious food and drinks, fabulous staff and service. Would have eaten here every day if we had longer in Panajachel. Thanks for a great experience!
We loved the Little Spoon! Stopped after finishing Acatenango for a well deserved lunch. The smoothie, tikka masala bowl, cheesecake, and bacon panini was delicious. The staff were friendly and spoke English. We will be going back again on this trip
We came here for breakfast and had the most delicious food with great service! Totally recommend to stop in for a meal. There’s 3 levels, so be sure to explore and see where you want to take a seat.
Food was great. Great value for money, nice atmosphere on the rooftop. Waiter spoke fluently english and very nice. Can highly recommend this place 👍
PRRR+547, Calle Santander, Panajachel, Guatemala•
49 min · 27.3 mi
4•Tchello_Thor — Google reviewNataliia K — Google reviewVanessa C — Google reviewEzequiel B — Google reviewВікторія Л — Google reviewChar — Google reviewNathan G — Google review
Lake Atitlán
4.8
(1630)
4.5
(692)
Lake
Nature & Parks
Volcanoes
Bodies of Water
Lake Atitlán is a stunning crater lake in Guatemala, offering eco-tours and lodging options. Wellkind Guatemala has contributed to environmental conservation efforts in the Lake Atitlan Basin by planting thousands of trees. There are various accommodation choices available, including budget-friendly hotels with en-suite bathrooms and views of the lake. Casa Monterey provides a peaceful retreat near Lake Atitlan and Calle Santander, featuring a lush garden and spacious accommodations ideal for families or groups.
What a gorgeous lake! And the villages dotted along it are super diverse and fun, from a digital nomad central to yoga to party, anything you want! The public boats are very reliable though be prepared to bounce about a lot in rough weather, but overall super easy to travel along the lake.
Emaad P — Google review
Beautiful and full of history!
I did a day tour with CA travelers and it was great. our tour guide was super attentive and sweet - Francisco.
we visited 3 pueblos : ceramic factory, honey products factory and textile factory. very special and full of history. people are lovely.
Please make sure you respect their villages - do not leave trash and support the community
loved the experience
Approaching Atitlan's shores, you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret oasis, a hidden gem that few have been lucky enough to discover. It's a place of rare beauty, once nominated for being among the world's new seven wonders. I definitely haven't seen a lake more spectacular. Surrounded by Mayan villages, Atitlan also neighbours with three cone-shaped volcanoes and hides ancient ruins underneath its waters.
WOW!!!🤩 what a absolutely stunning place. I felt like I had traveled to another world while boating around the lake surrounded by sleeping giants. The water was such a beautiful shade of blue. Still in total awe of the area. I highly recommend getting on a boat and traveling to the smaller towns around the lake. Each one has its own Myan vibe and rich heritage. I would go back to Guatemala just to visit this lake.
First thing to say is that it will take you about 2 hours from Antigua. Second thing to say is that you'll go through their Sierras (Mountains) and will fall in love with the scenery. Third and most important, when in Atitlan, get yourself a private boat (Lancha) so that you can more easily go between the various towns and don't have to wait or worry about time. We went with this route and in 1 day had the chance to see 4 little pueblos at a very leisurely pace (trust me this is what you'll want to spend your money on). The lake itself is amazing with a feeling of calm and peace. The pueblos dot the shores of the lake and each is known for something different, with different colors, cuisine, and sites. The miradores are the best way to gain the necessary elevation to take in the magnitude of the lake but be ready for a steep climb.
A magical place with breathtaking views.
You can rent a boat and go to different places nearby, visit the oldest fire rituals on the first day of the meadow, hike in the mountains, buy the most delicious cocoa, coffee or honey. It has everything: the beauty of nature around, tranquility and a fascinating lake that inspires and makes you want to come back to this place.
I recommend going during the day or in the morning. It can be chilly in the morning, so wear something warm when you're on the boat.
I’ve had the blessing of traveling to many beautiful places, but this lake stands out as one of the most breathtaking I’ve ever visited. The ride from Antigua can be a bit daunting, so I recommend doing it during daylight. It feels like stepping into the pages of a history book.
The lake offers something for everyone—from yoga and water sports to a tranquil setting surrounded by indigenous villages. It’s truly one of my favorite places in the world 🥰
Love this place. Great views, great lake, great villages around the lake. We stayed in a hotel by the Lake in Santa Catarina Palopo, and did a tour by boat across the lake to San Antono Palopo and then San Juan. Great artisan villages with various cottage industries. Fantastic views and lovely weather. Certainly recommend visiting this part of Guatemala. Fantastic
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Where to eat
Under a 1-minute walk from Café Loco Coffee Roasters, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.
Pana Rock
4.4
(1611)
4.0
(147)
affordable
Restaurant
Pana Rock, located on Calle Santander in Panajachel, offers a familiar experience for those who have visited Hard Rock Cafe. While the food may not be exceptional, the lively atmosphere makes it a popular spot among locals and visitors alike. The extensive drink menu includes options like cubetazos of beer and cocktails. Guests can enjoy Latin rock music or live bands while mingling with locals.
Antonio, Fabio, and Leonardo were all fun, they crack me up this place is fabulous. We just learned hand signal for the beer. This place is fabulous to watch sports we even found the American football game. In the evenings, they have live music and the band is phenomenal. Fun place to go drink and have a great time. Drinks were more expensive there than most places!!!!
I LOVE the decor!
I WOULD RECOMMEND
Cindy L — Google review
Excellent place for a drink and live music. I wouldn't recommend their food though
Great lively bar. Came for a few beers and a pizza. Food was actually delicious and the live band was amazing.
Cool place to hangout, listen to Rock music, have drinks and eat bar food!
Live rock music, tasty finger food, terrific service in an adequate cozy atmosphere
Very nice atmosphere and live music. We enjoyed our time there, it was packed of people !
The drinks was a bit expensive.
Super fun, friendly, safe place for food, drinks and music videos until live music starts at 9.
Would rate -1 if possible. I (1p) was sitting at the bar and the live band was starting to play and it was a bit too loud for my convenience. Barkeeper told me I could move to the table in the back (2p). Then the bouncer told me I had to go back to the bar. When I refused they just gave me the bill and told me to go. Not solo traveler friendly, they just want to maximize profits even when it means bouncing a paying solo traveler.
Dao Thai
4.6
(181)
4.3
(6)
Thai restaurant
Dao Thai is a cozy and charming restaurant that offers amazing Thai food. The place has a cool vibe and a great view, making it an ideal spot to enjoy delicious meals. The portion sizes are generous, and the prices are reasonable. Customers highly recommend the Panang Curry and the medium spicy Pad Thai. Despite its small seating area, the staff is friendly and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for visitors.
Excellent pad Thai! We both ordered chicken and the sauce and medium heat level were perfect. Service was quick and we found the pricing fair for the portion and quality of the food. Don't hesitate to dine here💜
Diana T — Google review
Maybe this is considered not bad Thai food for Guatemala. It's definitely not great. The reviews are incredibly generous so maybe I came with too high expectations.
Would be considered meh-to-bad in places with good Thai food food. I got the Penang Curry with chicken for Q60. Came with good amount of meat and veggies. Food came incredibly fast though.
I came in with a water bottle and they told me I couldn't drink it. I was the only person in the restaurant the entire time. Midway through the meal, I said I was going to drink my water outside and then the waitress said I could drink at my table but then the cook later said I couldn't again.
I ordered the green curry here, and it was surprisingly good! It’s not quite like having it in Thailand, but it comes close. The ladies running the place are really nice, and I love that everything on the menu is the same price, 60 quetzales. A great spot for a tasty and affordable Thai meal in Panajachel!
Amazing Thai food! We had a chicken green curry and chicken pa nang. Massive portions, so much flavour and only 60Q per dish. The staff are lovely and there are playing cards on every table. Recommend eating here!!!
I met Dao for the 1st time today. She is very sweet and cooks excellent food with good quantity at very reasonable prices (about $8 US as of this writing). She speaks some English, Italian, and Spanish in addition to her native Thai. My friends had the Shrimp Pad Thai while I had the Pad See Ew. Highly recommended if you're in the Pana area!
Delicious veggie pad Thai! A nice surprise to realize after a few bites that it not only had tofu but tempeh also!! Extra protein. Huge portion, great flavor. Saved half the meal and took it to go for the airport. Win!
Must have been the best Pad Kra Pao I've had outside of Thailand. While the atmosphere is nothing special, the food is great! Really recommend this place if you are looking for Thai food. Prices are also very reasonable.
Dao Thai restaurant delivered‼️ I've been to Thailand and the dining experience here was authentic. The service was gracious and the Tom Yum soup with shrimp and medium (requested) heat was on the mark.
I am looking forward to becoming a regular customer since I recently became a permanent resident of Guatemala and am staying in Panajachel for several months. Further exploration of the menu will be a pleasure.
debajo Hostel Nómades, Calle Santander, Panajachel, Guatemala•
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2
Travelers
2
Mister Jon's
4.4
(577)
4.5
(212)
affordable
Restaurant
Mister Jon's is a spot in Panajachel that offers an American diner experience with a twist. The decor features old B-movie posters and Star Wars memorabilia, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The menu is available in both Spanish and English, catering to both American tourists and locals. The food is highly praised, with options like homemade burgers, omelets, burritos, mozzarella sticks, and more.
Wow! Great, quality food. 😊 Edit: I haven't been disappointed yet after maybe 10 visits. Their specials during the week are excellent. 2 for 1 burgers on Monday, really great taco buffet on Wednesday and 2 for 1 chicken sandwiches on Friday. Food is top notch American style and the service is great, especially from the manager who is kind.
Andrés — Google review
I didn’t have high expectations from the reviews but it was worse than I thought. The server recommended the chicken burger to me so I said okay to that. It is disgusting I can’t even take a full bite. And I got two unfortunately. The best part of the whole meal was the drink. Fries were mediocre and had no salt. The burger was soooooo dry and hard and I’m not picky.
Ok to be fair I did not eat here. But I had read on a travel blog (one focusing on traveling with kids) that it had this amazing, you don’t want to miss this breakfast. And when we arrived it was all burgers and looked like fast food. So just know that at least lunch isn’t anything special by the looks of it. It did take us a while to get there so I understand if breakfast wasn’t being served but a fast food, chain-feeling burger restaurant is the last place I’d want to eat in Panajachel and I was disappointed by the recommendation.
An American Diner breakfast "The Gringo". Free coffee refills. Eggs cooked to order. Great tasting strips of bacon. Loved the service too.
After two months of travel, I needed this.
The pancakes are too big: two per person is largely enough! The granola was tasty, if you like cinnamon. Our plates arrived with twenty minutes interval, which is really bad according to my European standards. Good coffee, with free refill. Friendly but unexperienced staff.
PS. THEIR PLAYLIST IS AMAZING 😉
Mister Jons is obviously catering to American tourists but we saw Guatemalans there too. The decor consists of old B-movie posters and star wars memorobilia. They have menus both in Spanish and English. The food is very good. We ordered the 2 for one special on Monday and paid 4$ usd for 4 double cheeseburgers! The buns are homemade bread and the whole thing was delicious. We also tried the bean and cheese burrito and mozzarela sticks. Everything was excellent. Our server was kind and helpful. The credit card machine wasn't working so we paid in quetzals which wasn't a big deal. Overall highly recommend this place.
This is one of the best value places in Panajachel... They have good food at a great price... For breakfast you can get a full meal either the "gringo" or "chapin" breakfast for just Q25 add Q2 so it's Q27 and you get unlimited coffee with it... The beer on draft is always Q10 (bargain) light or dark beer... Best crunchy tacos in town Q15 for 3 and some of the best offers in town like on Monday you get 2 doble burgers with fries and drinks for only Q40 that's only Q20 each as well as on Fridays 2 chicken sandwich meals for only Q40... This is a great place to grab something good cheap and quick in pana...
The milk shake is watery and tasteless. The bread is dry and half of the burger is empty. the fried chicken is hopeless. I feel sad the chicken died for this. If you order take away, be aware what they put in the bag. They forgot my fried chicken!
1-49,, Calle Santander, Panajachel, Guatemala•
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Day 2
East side of town
For day 2, we recommend exploring the east side side of town. Start the day off with Deli Jasmin, then wind down and take it easy by the time you get to Tuscani. All together, your day would be filled with about 7 hours of non-stop fun.
1•Esther B — Google reviewEmily F — Google reviewIsidro B — Google reviewLuis S — Google reviewClaes L — Google reviewSarah P — Google reviewMollie — Google review
Deli Jasmin
4.5
(678)
4.5
(354)
affordable
Restaurant
Deli Jasmin in Panajachel, Guatemala, is a charming oasis away from the bustling streets. It's a perfect spot to relax, work, or enjoy a meal. The breakfast menu offers a variety of options at fair prices. With its large menu and delicious food, it's a favorite dining spot for many visitors. The restaurant provides plenty of vegetarian options and generous portion sizes at reasonable prices. Additionally, the friendly staff and well-behaved dog add to the delightful dining experience.
My favorite breakfast and lunch spot with lovely Mayan ladies cooking everything up. Be patient this isn't NYC service everything is made from scratch including the tea. Highly recommend the banana pancakes 🥞. Beautiful atmosphere with hummingbirds flying in and out and a jungle feel.
Zaina I — Google review
We only went here to drink something, the restaurant is really cosy and the atmosphere is nice. The service however is very slow (we waited about 20 minutes for two drinks). Prices are quite high but they are in a touristy area.
Beautiful breakfast spot with a gorgeous courtyard and colorful decor. We came by for breakfast and the food was good. Also the chia seed drinks were a great thing to try though the cups were a lot bigger than we expected.
Very tranquil environment with shade and plants bringing a lush peace.
Food is very tasty. The menu has great options for all taste buds.
Don’t come here if you’re in a rush. Quality takes a few more minutes.
Many foreign travelers can be found glued to their phone finding their next adventure.
Great food and service. They do not offer credit card payment, just a heads up. I would visit them again. I attached pictures of the biggest hash brown I have ever eaten and my pancakes.
Very nice and relaxed place which is a bit of an oasis where you get away from the busy streets.
Perfect place to work, read or contemplate life over a nice drink or some food.
The breakfast menu is big! I had the fruit salad and two fried eggs, and with that two coffees.
Considering the location and the beautiful arranged fruit salad the prices are very fair: 82Q including tip.
Btw; it is the best fruit salad I have had on the whole trip.
This place never disappoints! I go to this place at least once every time I’m in Panajachel. Many things are made in house like the bagels, bread and more. There are vegan and vegetarian options as well. The food is great, the drinks are great, the ambiance is great and the staff is great!
Ate here for breakfast one morning and the food wasn’t bad. The prices are 2-3X more than anything else we had in Pana for the same, if not less flavorful, food. We didn’t feel the prices reflected the quality. They do have Hi Chairs available. Food took a while to come and 2 people in our party had significant tummy problems after eating there the rest of the day.
< 1 min · 100 ft
2•Klaus-yngve P — Google reviewCam — Google reviewRocky C — Google reviewDamien B — Google reviewJamesK06 — Google reviewEva P — Google reviewNiv B — Google review
Museo Lacustre de Atitlan
4.3
(463)
3.8
(90)
History museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
Museo Lacustre de Atitlan, located within Hotel Posada de Don Rodrigo in Panajachel, is a fascinating museum showcasing Mayan artifacts discovered in the depths of Lake Atitlan, where the ancient city of Samabaj was found. The museum offers insights into the history of the Atitlan region and the volcanic eruptions that shaped it. Visitors can explore exhibits on Mayan and Spanish influences, as well as geological processes that led to the formation of the lake.
Nice museum. It's smaller, but it's a museum divided into 2 parts. The first one has the history of the villages/cities around Lake Atitlán and information about the volcano. Also found archaeological objects. The second part is only in Spanish, but it's about the sunken Mayan city. Amazing. I highly recommend it. I think the entrance fee was 30q
Andrej F — Google review
This is a nice Place With good information about the region. It is pretty sheep to enter. It is very sad that the Museum is not bigger and it is a little guitar find because it's inside a Resort 🤔
Had some important information about the underground lost city Samabaj. Other than that it seems like a tourist trap that is conveniently located inside a hotel. I would recommend saving your money and watching a free YouTube video online.
Is a very small museum. Would probably take you 30 minutes maximum even if you read every single sign.
Nice, albeit small museum. Educational. I enjoyed it.
Decent museum on the pre-Colombian archaeology of Lago Atitlan. Some excellent pieces. It has a unique room on underwater archaeology. It also has descriptions of the geological and volcanic processes which formed the lake.
Rip off place. I ran across this place thought to check it out. It is inside the hotel. I was sweating so I went to the tiny bathroom to wipe off some sweat. Then they charged me 20 quzales for that!! Shady business! 0 star if I could.
It was ok, being honest would be better if someone gives more details.
Extremely small. 35Q is highly overpriced for what you get.
PRQQ+JPJ, Calle Santander, Panajachel, Guatemala•
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2
Travelers
2
3 min · 0.18 mi
3
Calle Santander
Calle Santander is the bustling heart of Panajachel, Guatemala, lined with shops, restaurants, and vibrant local culture. It's a pedestrian-friendly street that offers a variety of goods such as textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere while exploring the diverse range of dining options and enjoying the picturesque views of Lake Atitlán.
3 min · 0.14 mi
4•
Azul Maya Archaeological Museum
4.5
(36)
4.3
(31)
Museums
Specialty Museums
The Azul Maya Archaeological Museum is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Nestled in the heart of an ancient civilization, this museum showcases a rich collection of artifacts that tell the story of the Mayan culture. Visitors can explore intricately designed pottery, stunning sculptures, and fascinating tools that were once used by this remarkable society. The museum not only highlights the artistic prowess of the Maya but also provides insights into their daily life and spiritual beliefs.
Calle Monte Rey, Panajachel, Guatemala•
2 min · 500 ft
5•Diana T — Google reviewJessica B — Google reviewPaul — Google reviewPerfectly L — Google reviewKarl L — Google reviewShannon E — Google reviewEldar — Google review
Tuscani
4.4
(248)
4.5
(316)
Restaurant
Tuscani is an Italian restaurant known for its delicious Caprese salad, bruschetta, and perfectly cooked salmon. The menu offers a wide variety of food catering to different dietary needs, with clearly marked gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Customers can enjoy dishes like the 4-meat pizza and gluten-free pizza with spinach, mushrooms, ham, artichoke, and pineapple. The restaurant also offers two-for-one cocktails after 5 pm and provides friendly and attentive service.
A gem of a restaurant.
We’re a family of vegetarian and carnivorous eaters and thoroughly enjoyed our choices:
- a Margarita Pizza with farm fresh tomatoes;
- Fettuccine Alfredo;
- Chicken stuffed with goat cheese & plum sauce
Charming & attentive waiter too.
Highly recommended!
Kyle H — Google review
3 stars on food based on what we are used to. The sandwich wasn't bad it just isn't worth 5 stars. The prices are insane though. We ate at the Thai place few doors down and for $, good food and FAIR pricing! Here, food is equal to 3 stars, and pricing is too high and tax was NOT included in pricing so 12.5% added at end. Making food price even higher. Neighboring table had pizza it looked good, thin crisp crust but again pricey. If you are craving Italian this place will should hit the spot almost. Notes to owner: plastic straw not needed every drink, and on refill additional straws absolutely not needed. Don't give a straw every glass, customer will ask, less straws, less cost, less pollution; the walls and items hanging on are filthy need cobwebs removed and washed. 🙃We won't go back here but Thai place 100%
Wow!
If you are in the city and looking for pizza as a gluten free person, look no further!
We started with a fresh caprice salad a d got 2 pizzas. One Atitlan, one Hawaiian, and it was happy hour all day so another bonus. The service was great and he even understood my broken Spanish.
Excellent wine and food. Small but enchanting Italian place, ate here 2 nights in a row.
My second night here. The food prep and consistency is worth a visit.
Fish filet was cooked to my liking.
Friendly attentive service.
Two for one cocktails after 5pm
A tight space with reasonable service, though we did feel rushed to order after sitting down. The food was mixed. I loved the goat cheese stuffed chicken with plum sauce but the grilled vegetables served with it had the taste and texture of having been frozen. My wife had chicken picata and we both thought it unbalanced with too much acid. The bread with it was dry and no butter was provided.
I was surprised to see that they add a 10% service charge, my first in quite a while. My rule is that it you add one it's all you get so it did save me a bit. The bigger surprise was the 5% fee for using a credit card. That's a real turn off especially since I emptied my wallet to avoid it. Worse, when going to the bank immediately after, we had to walk through street food that looked immensely better. Next time.
Very unsuspecting looking place but they offer a wide variety of food, catering to dietary needs- their menu clearly marks which items are gluten free, vegan, or vegetarian. They do offer gluten free pizza and gluten free bread.
Husband ordered 4 meat pizza which he says was good. I ordered a GF pizza that had spinach, mushrooms, ham, artichoke and pineapple (no cheese). I’ve definitely had better GF pizza crusts / this one tasted very much like dense corn flour, almost like a thick cracker. They had a vast menu, and I wanted to try numerous items. I’d recommend this place just not the GF pizza.
Great plate at lunch time, yet not that much food in the plate, however, it was excellent and delicious. Lovely place in the main street. We also ordered pizza, it was tasty but to tin. So, if you are hungry then you might need at least two dishes. Staff is friendly and service oriented. Have a try.
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Where to eat
Even the most seasoned adventurers need a break to chow down some food. Close to Calle Santander, these restaurants are about a 1-minute walk away.
Taqueria Orale, Panajachel
4.2
(132)
4.2
(6)
Taco restaurant
Taqueria Orale in Panajachel is a hidden gem located on Calle Santander. The bright pink building offers delicious and affordable tacos with a variety of fillings, including the popular vegetarian eggplant option. Customers appreciate the buffet of sauces, onions, and cilantro to customize their tacos. Despite being slightly tucked away, this taqueria is worth finding for its great food and reasonable prices compared to the more touristy restaurants nearby.
Cheap eats here and delicious. I had chicken frajitas and hubby hade yucateco (meat dish) with pina colada and beer 140 q Perfect if you want a quick bite to eat as service is very good. Just down a little alley way
Linda — Google review
Good food! Ask for their house made spicy sauce the chiltepe
It was a last minute decision, presentation was all good, food was delicious. Not a fine dine but money friendly.
By the way tip is mandatory 10%
I have never been to such an unhygienic restaurant in my life. If you still want to go, ok... But pay attention: when you enter the restaurant, there is NO place for the employees to wash their hands. The boy who made my food had a runny nose and kept wiping it off with his sleeve and assembling my food 🤢 Furthermore, he licked the guacamole that fell on his finger and put it back together. The girl who cooked the meat, took the tablet, the money, fixed her hair... and took the food... I don't recommend it, I won't go back. One detail: I'm backpacking, I eat a lot of street food and I'm not bothered by details... but the lack of hygiene in this place surprised me.
The food lacked flavor and waitress had a bad attitude. Could not take responsibility for messing up our order.
The service was good and the food beautiful but it was not really tasty. It was definitely very basic tacos and the meat was average.
Nice tacos and Mexican cuisine. Quick, friendly service too
I'd go back. Prices were good. Food was good. Service was decent.
Centro comercial Plaza Atitlan, Calle Santander, Panajachel 07100, Guatemala•
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Day 3
Proximity is everything
For day 3, we bundled attractions like Delhi 6 and Casa Cakchiquel | Panajachel and other places within a close range, so that the time it takes to travel between all of them is less than one hour. Combined with the average time people spend there, your day should take about 6 hours.
1•Santosh — Google reviewAlekhya B — Google reviewCafian A — Google reviewCraig's T — Google reviewMariela S — Google reviewGerry H — Google reviewVanessa H — Google review
Delhi 6
4.6
(466)
4.7
(55)
Indian restaurant
Delhi 6 is a hidden gem that offers exceptional service and extraordinary food. The warm and friendly staff ensure a delightful experience, catering to various dietary preferences with vegan and vegetarian options. The tantalizing aromas and sensational explosion of spices in dishes like paneer tikka masala, chicken biryani, broccoli malai, croquettes, vindaloo, butter chicken, and naan de ajo transport taste buds to a world of flavor.
Great experience. Food is good comparable to places in California. Samosas were great. If you like food spicy let them know. Ate here two nights in a row and brought my family the second night. Would recommend.
Ana G — Google review
Great spot for Indian food by Lake Atitlán. If you missed spicy flavorful food while in Guatemala, The flavors are authentic, the curries rich, and the naan perfectly soft. The staff is welcoming, the atmosphere cozy, and the beautiful mural adds a colorful touch. A must-visit for real Indian taste in Guatemala.
Great Indian food find in Panajachel. We were craving Indian food and this was a great spot. The food was delicious, well flavored, right amount of spice. Service was quick, and the view from the patio rooftop location was great!
If you want to have a pleasurable eating experience, this is the place. Mouth watering curries, nann and so much more. The Indian spices provided the right mouth sensation and you were allowed to choose how hot you wanted your spices. The waiters took your orders using technology and the food came out in a timely fashion
This is a great Indian restaurant in Panajachel. It's staffed with all locals and the food is great, I was missing super spicy food and they spiced it up for sure. They spice it to your liking. The service is phenomenal and the staff here are super friendly and helpful about sites around Lake Atitlan. I recommend trying this restaurant when you need a change from the delicious Guatemalan cusine.
I always love a place that has beautiful artwork. The food & drinks were DELICIOUS! Server spoke both English & Spanish like us so ordering wasn’t an issue. It was the BEST Indian food we’ve ever tried! You HAVE to visit this place. You won’t regret it!
We were here for Lunch, you sit upstairs with a light breeze, which is very nice at noon. They offer excellent lemonades and a good selection of craftbeers.
To eat we had Dehli6 Samosa Chaat, grilled Cheese, Raita and Naan garlic.
This preparation of the Samosas was new for us, we never had this like that way before.
And we like it!
Would I come a second time- yes, if we stay long enough in this area!
Would I recommend this place - definitely!
We came here because of the many good reviews and were not disappointed. The food and the mango lassi were very tasty and there is a large selection of vegetarian dishes. The rooftop terrace is a particularly nice place to sit at sunset.
1 min · 400 ft
2•Girina K — Google reviewKlaus-yngve P — Google reviewKnud R — Google reviewFrancesca W — Google reviewPeter D — Google reviewDea M — Google reviewZenon S — Google review
Casa Cakchiquel | Panajachel
4.3
(112)
4.4
(29)
Cultural center
Sights & Landmarks
Art gallery
Massage therapist
Casa Cakchiquel in Panajachel is not just a hotel, but also a museum and cultural hub. The property features an exhibition of antique photographs, a radio station, and a Japanese restaurant serving delicious sushi. Visitors can explore the beautiful garden and enjoy yoga classes or massages by local indigenous women. Guests have praised the comfortable accommodations with amenities like warm water, towels, and even a fireplace.
Would highly recommend! This cultural center is free and has a room with local artifacts, pictures dating back to the last century, and beautiful, beautiful outdoor space to catch your breath and hang out. The cultural center sells postcards and has two other business attached to it: a small vintage/second hand shop and a restaurant with amazing food and drinks, including vegan options.
Esther H — Google review
If you need to killing time in Panajachel, a good place to visit once. Pictures are displayed that give a brief overview of the history of Panajachel during the Spanish conquest. The garden is pretty, and the space is very small and quiet.
It is a nice based and it doesn't cost money which is also very nice It's a lot of really nice pictures and atmostere is good. But it is a very small collection and you can see everything in less den 20 minutes.
Fantastic place - the food was very nice and service as well . Take a look at the wonderful pictures and history . thank you
New restaurant just opened here offering best fish and chips outside of the UK!! They even have cod! New menu on the way too. Be sure to check it out. Has wonderful, quiet garden setting!
Not impressed by the sushi portion sizes, I felt it was overpriced for what you received.
My wife ordered a rice dish and really didn’t like it.
On the other hand, we have eaten there before and enjoyed it.
The 2 for 1 California Roll is not worth it, in my opinion.
Great Stay at the Casa Cakchiquel which was also a museum. We booked an Airbnb here and it was so beautiful. The interior was great, comfortable beds, warm water, towels and a fire place. Vinyls and books on the wall. It was a perfect stay.
Very nice garden, Japanese Restaurant, Museum and Art on Exhibit, Old Photographs of Panajachel reminding us of the Vast cultural and historic value of this Area. Thank you. Well worth a visit... Theres also Yoga clases and Massage by a very talented, local indigenous Woman.
Calle 14 de Febrero, Panajachel, Guatemala•
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
3 min · 0.18 mi
3Taylor — Google reviewCeline — Google reviewAnna K — Google reviewCarolina W — Google reviewCaire F — Google reviewNaomi B — Google reviewTamara N — Google review
Realworld Paragliding
4.9
(159)
Corporate office
Realworld Paragliding is a top choice for adrenaline junkies seeking an unforgettable experience. The team, led by Christian and Andreas, boasts extensive knowledge and European certification. With decades of flying expertise, they prioritize safety and ensure favorable conditions for a thrilling yet secure flight. From the warm welcome by Stephanie to soaring with experienced pilots like Mike and Dori, every moment is tailored to comfort levels. Even those hesitant about heights can enjoy the adventure without anxiety or motion sickness.
The best experience we have had in our times visiting Guatemala. It is an absolute must! The staff were very friendly and experienced (with certification for flights). They have been operating for a long time and are trustworthy. It is a great way to see the lake and surroundings with a little adrenaline and a lot of freedom! I will recommend them to anyone I come across.
Chase F — Google review
Christian and his team went above and beyond and gave us the best paragliding experience ever! Everyone at Real World Paragliding is welcoming and knowledgeable with the best vibes. Perfect way to sit back and relax and take in the beautiful views of Guatemala. Absolute highlight of our trip. 10/10 recommend 🏔️☀️☁️🇬🇹
Amazing experience with RealWorld! They are licensed which is important for my insurance company, and something that other nearby companies lacked. They seem to prefer flying only when conditions are excellent, leading to a long (30 min!) flight. We drove up, waited for conditions to align, and then flew all the way down. Contacted by email, and then was told to arrive at the office at 10am when conditions were good.
I flew with Sebastian. He asked how I was feeling and if I’d like to do any acrobatics, which I did, and it was a highlight! My boyfriend did a massive spiral with the woman flying with him. Christian, the business owner, gave us some interesting lessons on flying - he’s a great guy! I brought my 360 camera and was allowed to attach it to Sebastian’s mount, and could go hands free without worry.
Wow! Absolutely amazing experience with these guys!
Felt incredibly safe throughout, good communication, good kit, good price, the whole experience was perfect. The staff were all lovely and fun, ensuring we were happy and enjoying ourselves
I flew with Sebastian who was great, a highly competent guide.
I'd really recommend this company, it was such a trip highlight for us
Only one word is needed to describe this experience: WOW! Please don’t miss this opportunity if you’re at the lake :) Christian, Aileen and the whole team had the most amazing, radiant and welcoming energy. They were not only top tier professionals but also the warmest souls. The ride up to the mountain was so fun with lots of good music and the flight was incredible! Everything was handled so professionally, we trusted everyone fully from the beginning. This was more than just paragliding, but a memory we will cherish forever. Thank you Chris, Aileen and everyone at Realworld Paragliding!
Amazing experience with professional, reliable and experienced paragliders! All the staff was so kind and caring, and you can feel their true passion for paragliding. They are all licensed in countries with high standards for licensing paragliders, and have new, high quality materials. They only fly when weather conditions are ideal and are not afraid of cancelling a flight if conditions are risky. They prioritize safety, which is crucial for such an activity. We had a blast, I strongly recommend them!
The weather was not good enough for us to fly within our tight schedule, but the communication ahead of and on the day itself was very transparent and honest when we had to conclude that it would not be possible. Hope to be back soon to enjoy the flight.
We are sooo happy we did paragliding with this company. Especially I‘m happy with my pilot christian. He was so trustworthy and kind. He calmed me down & encouraged me throughout the whole flight. Highly recommend realworld paragliding!! Danka eu viel mol für dia toll Erfahrig.
Centro Comercial San Rafael, Calle Santander, Panajachel, Guatemala•
< 1 min · 100 ft
4•K. C — Google reviewLivNLaVidaLoca — Google reviewRodney M — Google reviewDavid L — Google reviewYun — Google reviewTa S — Google reviewJessie S — Google review
Restaurante Hana
4.2
(441)
4.4
(271)
affordable
Japanese restaurant
Restaurante Hana offers a variety of delicious dishes such as shrimp tempura, veggie tempura, udon soup, sushi, salmon on rice and raw tuna with avocado. The food is described as 'freaking tasty' and 'delicious.' However, some customers have mentioned that the service was not up to par and there were disturbances like barking dogs outside the restaurant. On the other hand, others have praised the great service at Restaurante Hana.
LOVED this Japanese restaurant! It was so delicious and was the closest in flavour we’ve found . The patio is a wonderful place to enjoy your meal and take in the afternoon sun. We enjoyed the gyoza, spicy tuna roll , yakitori chicken and the tempura bowl. With our dishes we got miso soup with cute carrot flowers in them. All the flavours reminded me of Japan and it was so lovely ! The owner is Japanese and has lived in Guatemala since the early 2000 I think. Hana is a great restaurant!
Adventuring S — Google review
I was pleasantly surprised find this Japanese restaurant in Panajachel, probably only one, and one run by actual Japanese chef. Sushi was good and I went twice. Only thing I guess is the price is kind of on the higher side, but if you're craving that sushi, this is place to go. I recommend as Korean.
Not sure why all the hype over the food, the tuna tartare was fishy, the beef and broccoli was bland and the noodles nothing to get excited about. My kid liked the salmon roll but she also exists on Mac and cheese. Service was about as unfriendly as it gets, not a smile or a thank you in sight. Skip the sushi and find a street food stand instead!!
I mean... I don't know what the hype is about? Maybe I set my standards too high? I've been to Japan before and these portions are good amount (on Thursdays) but there is little to no fish in these rolls. The fried rice is bland. The tartar is VERY fishy and no other taste besides that. The rolls are maybe a 5/10 MAX. I wouldn't recommend coming here honestly.
Amazing restaurant right in the heart of Panajachel. Service was top notch. Beautifully decorated interior. Menu has lots of choices. Food was cooked exceptionally well, flavors were awesome. Highly recommend this gem.
A nice sushi restaurant at Pana janchel looks pretty good on a tourist street. We had a low expectation to try it out for the late night dinner. We had ramen and chowmein, plus a vegetables tempura because they ran out the shrimp tempura. The quantity is a bit less compared to the usual.
Restaurante Hana is the only Japanese restaurant in Panajachel. I was surprised by their authenticity. This was certainly contributed by Mihoko who started this restaurant about 15 years ago. I had a light dinner at Hana on a Saturday night. I was very happy with the food, service, and ambient. I wish Mihoko the best.
Loved this Japanese restaurant! Came here two times on my trip. Loved the 2 for 1 promotion they had on their sushi rolls Thursday. Highly recommend the tempura roll!
Centro Comercial El Patio, Calle Santander 3-41B, Panajachel, Guatemala•
1 min · 200 ft
5•Eugenio G — Google reviewCory S — Google reviewRuben K — Google reviewAmy — Google reviewRoman — Google reviewJim A — Google reviewMelvin L — Google review
Dolce Gelato
4.7
(311)
5.0
(21)
affordable
Ice cream shop
Dolce Gelato is a charming ice cream shop located on Santander, the main street in Panajachel, Guatemala. They offer a wide variety of artisanal gelato flavors, including local tropical fruits and rich options like chocolates and coffees. The menu changes weekly to keep things exciting. Visitors rave about unique flavors such as cardamom, vegan passion fruit, and mango cheesecake.
Fantastic gelato, I loved that you could try different flavours without single use plastic spoons. My cone was Q18 for a single flavour and it was clear that the ice cream was very high quality. I loved it!! 10/10 recommend the cinnamon ice cream 🥰😍
Ingrid M — Google review
Delicious icecream. Just beware of the lady who overcharges… count the money they give you back when paying cash!
After spending the day venturing around Pana, observing the culture, taking in the beauty of this part of the country, and shopping the local markets, our group made it our nightly ritual to stop by Dolce and sample our way through all of their handcrafted flavors. With so many options, you'll look forward to coming back or getting a large cup with three flavors. There's a cozy seating area to escape the rain and unwind after an eventful day.
If you're looking for a place to satisfy your ice cream cravings, this is the spot! They have amazing flavors like cardamom, vegan passion fruit, and mango cheesecake. We went back six times in two days (no shame), which just goes to show how incredible this place is. Highly recommended for ice cream lovers 😍
Oh, they also have a fridge full of local and delightful kombucha & june!
Can’t go wrong with mango some of the best gelato!
Stumbled across this place on the main shopping street. It’s a cute, well decorated, relaxing and perfect space for a quick gelato. Hand crafted flavors, our favorites were the Ginger and also the Cardamom. You can also get coffee and some to go items (local honey, water, eggs and more). They also have Wi-Fi. Be sure to stop in.
I had high expectations about this place since I heard good reviews, I tried the three flavors my husband chose and two flavors I chose, I think they have too much sugar so that hides the flavors, I had a bad experience so wouldn’t recommend this place, maybe recommend the owner adding less sugar. Location is great in Panajachel and in San Marcos, employees are friendly and it’s a cozy place.
Best place to get handcrafted Ice creams in Panajachel, with more than 10 different flavours, white coffee, milk & chocolate, tiramisu, yogurt with nuts, natural fruit flavours, lemon, mango, maracuyá and much more! You can have up to 3 flavours in the same cup or cone. Delicious Italian ice cream!
Calle Santander, Panajachel 07010, Guatemala•
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Where to eat
When you need a food break from visiting all the attractions today, these fan favorite restaurants are about a 1-minute walk away from Dolce Gelato.
Deli Llama de Fuego
4.4
(103)
Permanently Closed
Restaurant
Deli Llama de Fuego is a popular spot in Panajachel, known for its selection of salads, sandwiches, and soups. With two locations on Calle Santander, it offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian food options. While some find the prices a bit high considering the portion sizes, many appreciate the delicious food and diverse menu that includes cookies, jams, and hummus.
Very delicious chicken soup with fresh vegetables. Interior is adorable. Staff are friendly. If you are obviously foreign expect to be mobbed by vendors.
Tanya B — Google review
Cute little place in the middle of the most crowded street in Pana. I liked the rice, vegetables and peanut sauce a lot!
Amazing food, organically sourced, and awesome vegan options!
Love this place!! In thee days we are here three times. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Not the cheapest but excellent quality of food, very large portions and lovely staff. A good mix of traditional and international dishes.
I always get the green juice with kale, chard, and other good green stuff. This is the best bargain. Food is good. Prices seem comparable to the restaurants around Santander which is high for someone coming from SEA.
Sit in the back at breakfast unless you really love the sun/heat. Peaceful start at 7am, classical music, delicious food. Coffee brewed to your preference: strong, medium, mild.
Excellent spot with a combination of local cuisine (frijoles, guac) and western dishes (burgers, salads). Very happy to have ended up here and first place we ran into that cares about sustainability.
Good food. Was with a group and received my food long after others. Had hummus sandwich. Was supposed to have sprouts but they weren't on it. Overall this place was ok.
PRVR+2V4, Calle Santander, Panajachel, Guatemala•
Humaya Restaurante
4.7
(285)
5.0
(30)
Restaurant
Art center
Cultural center
Historical place museum
Local history museum
Excellent innovative Guatemalan cuisine
14.741291°, -91.158101° On Calle 14 de Febrero, this restaurant opens through a small alley into the tranquil garden of Casa Cakchiquel cultural centre, with hanging plants and a gallery of photos of old Panajachel, and offers a relaxed and elegant dining atmosphere. Formerly chef Mihoko’s Japanese sushi and tempura restaurant Hana, the restaurant now offers innovative Guatemalan dishes with a modern twist, using fresh local ingredients. The placemat menu offers starters, chef’s specials, main courses and desserts. Dishes such as the Atitlan wraps with Churrasco Chapín and the Mayan burger are particularly popular. The friendly staff explain the menu and take into account dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options.
In December 2024, we ordered tacos mestizos, corn tortillas, cheese crust, guacamole, chirmol, pepitoria & sweet corn (GTQ80) as an appetiser. The tacos tasted very good. For main course, we ordered the suban ik fusion with mushroom & tofu inspired by the ceremonial Mayan Cakchiquetes, a mix of proteins cocked inside a Mayan leaf with rice, corn, salad and tortillas (GTQ100). The main course tasted excellent, with nice flavours and good textures. We really enjoyed this high-quality dish.
Humaya Restaurante is known for its innovative cuisine, welcoming service and serene ambiance, making it a must-visit dining destination in Panajachel. Highly recommended.
Goyourownway — Google review
I had an amazing meal at this restaurant in Panajachel. The food was so fresh, healthy, and full of flavor—it really let the natural ingredients shine. Every dish was thoughtfully prepared and absolutely delicious😋
This place is definitely one of the reasons I’d love to come back to Panajachel. If you’re looking for incredible food made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, you won’t want to miss this spot!
Found this gem on Google and had an incredible meal here. Located inside Casa Cakchiquel, Humaya stands out for its creative twist on traditional Guatemalan cuisine. Everything was fresh, healthy, and full of flavor, with a few vegetarian and vegan options that did not disappoint .
The serene garden setting, warm service, and artistic presentation make it a top pick for both casual meals and special occasions.
The place is really pretty and cozy, they have an amazing courtyard so it feels very open. We had fantastic service and their drink selection was wonderful. This is place is perfect for the type of traveler that wants an elevated version of the local cuisine without being too pricey or pretentious.
Great ambiance with super tasty food and drinks. The ingredients are so fresh and colourful. Loved the beef chimichangas, I wish I could have tried everything on the menu! Service was also excellent and quick.
That was a movie nigth, earlier in the afternoon they where preparing some awesome bread made with amaranth Ramon and integral wheat.
They actually buy their ingredients from small organic producers and women's organizations of agriculture
We came for dinner, not really that busy but I think it was busy for them. I’d recommend if it’s busy to just go somewhere else.
There were lots of excuses for service even though it didn’t seem that busy. I think this place is different for lunch versus dinner.
Our cocktails took quite a while.
Then our food came and it was a bit cold. We asked for hot sauce from the person that delivered the food but instead the waitress came with it. She then took the order of the people next to us before she dropped off the hot sauce. It was a bit odd and awkward.
If the food was warmer then it might have been better but I’d say go for lunch - might be better service.
Also the space itself is super pretty so that’s nice.
I ordered the Subanik beef and chicken. It tastes very bitter, I could not eat it.
I told the waitress and she did not offer to exchange it. She still made me pay for it even though it was not edible.
Casa Cakchiquel, Calle 14 de Febrero, Panajachel 07010, Guatemala•
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2
Travelers
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Las Chinitas
4.0
(259)
4.1
(120)
affordable
Restaurant
Nestled in the charming town of Panajachel, Las Chinitas is a delightful culinary gem that offers an array of authentic Asian dishes, including Chinese, Japanese, and Malaysian cuisine. This cozy spot is perfect for those seeking a taste of local flavors combined with international flair. Guests rave about the menu del dia, which features delicious options like stewed beef served with tortillas and refreshing fruit desserts. The atmosphere is inviting and comfortable, making it an ideal place to unwind after exploring the beautiful surroundings.
Nice beautiful quite place
I took the “ menu del día “ and it was delicious. Comes with soup, noodles/rice as you want, and for dessert fruit(mango)
The staff are kind and happy to help.
Thank you
Gal Z — Google review
Food was fine. What killed it for me is that they allowed a group who conducted a high-volume video conference. I moved to the other side of the room but it was still noisy. Come on, there's far better locations to do stuff like this. I don't even think they bought anything.
I give “0”star if it’s possible…!
We ordered 2 porsion nasi goreng (fried rice mixed with beef,vegetable,pinapple slices) and 2 orange juice.First nasi goreng it wasn’t written in the menu.After they served us the foods.we didn’t like the taste.it was terrible.And when asked for the bill we coul’dnt belive that.2 nasi goreng and 2 orang juice 187 quetzals.(you can see in the photo below super expensive price.There are better restaurants on the beach of panajacel.They serve better foods with a beautiful lake view….Don’t go to this restaurant!!
A decent option for Chinese food in Panajachel. We had a craving for Asian food and Las Chinitas made it just right.
Had the Nasi Goreng which was okey even though it was a bit flavourless. They give you a few salsas and some chives and I used a lot. They also forgot to put in the pineapple so had to ask for it.
Service was very friendly and helpful but wasn't really pleased with one aspect.
On the menu they have to identical dishes (veggie stir-fry) but one with mushroom for 5Q extras.
But when I wanted to replace eggs for mushroom in my Nasi Goreng they would charge 10Q extra.
All in all a bit disappointed.
Best Oriental Food on the lake! I tried their Indonesian noodle dish, and had it again the day after. Was something very special. Also the dining hall is very comfortable.
The food is delicious! I tried the summer rolls and nasi goreng. Will definitely come back and try more dishes.
My partner and I came here for dinner. It was such a cute spot that we HAD to stop in! We both had the stewed beef with tortillas and it was very good! Waitress was kind and timely.
PRVR+4XW, Calle Santander, Panajachel, Guatemala•
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Day 4
Keep it simple
For day 4, these 5 places should be enough to fill your day with something exciting to do in Panajachel. Start the day with Crossroads Cafe and make your way through the city to get to Santa Catarina Palopó. This should take about 7 hours of your day.
1•Sierra A — Google reviewStav A — Google reviewBen R — Google reviewAlex — Google reviewPaul M — Google reviewEmiliano B — Google reviewMagdalena K — Google review
Crossroads Cafe
4.8
(324)
4.9
(572)
cheap
Coffee shop
Crossroads Cafe in Panajachel is a must-visit international coffee hub. The owner, a local, sources all the coffee from Guatemala and pays top dollar for the best quality beans from local farms. Visitors can even participate in and learn about the roasting process. The homemade desserts are delicious, and the cafe offers a great selection of self-roasted coffee. It's a perfect spot to disconnect as there's no cell reception or wifi, allowing visitors to enjoy their coffee in peace.
Byron is the best! I have so much respect for his philosophy and knowledge about coffee! The coffee is absolutely amazing, and as mentioned in the reviews, the carrot cake is also delicious (homemade by his wife). Above all, the service and atmosphere were incredible!!! Thank you again Byron!
Ps. Peeps, don't forget to buy fresh beans to take home :)
Jenny K — Google review
What an authentic experience! No wifi, no outlets, no matcha lattes...just some of the best coffee beans in the world and brews served in unassuming white mugs. The cafe has been open for 26 years. If you are a coffee lover, I recommend a shot of espresso and a small cup of the house coffee to experience both beans. What made the experience though was Byron who gave us our own mini coffee tour. He cares deeply about community and connecting with his guests. He explained to us the coffee process and showed us the beans and cleaner in the back room. He even asked if he could pray for us. I was blown away by his hospitality and warmth. His wife also makes the best carrot cake and blueberry pie. This is 100% a must try in Panajachel!
If I could I would give 1000 stars, such a unique place that is here for 1990, just ask a simple why and you’ll get the whole tour, coffee amazing but the people who work there are the real treasure!
Excellent cafe with delicious desserts. The carrot cake was fire as was the coffee. Also tried the blueberry pie which was nice.
What an awesome place! All the coffee is from Guatemala and toasted to perfection by the owner (who is a local). He’s built great connections with all the coffee farms he buys from and pays them top dollar for their best quality coffee. After visiting the cafe twice, I was invited to come the next morning to participate in and learn about the roasting process. Definitely an experience I’ll never forget!! The desserts are absolutely delicious and homemade by the owners wife. Cookies, pies, crumbles, cinnamon rolls, they have it all. A must stop coffee experience while you’re visiting Atitlan!!!!
Second trip here. Carrot cake is devine. Got 3 pounds of coffee beans last time. Getting 3 pounds to take home again.
Cute coffee place away from the Main Street of Pana. More relax and cozy.
Great for a take away coffee are enjoy the space. Great prices and local coffee to enjoy
Amazing cooffee by owner Byron with homemade desserts by his wife.
We got experience to take a look at the process of coffee roasting and also roast our own coffee! What great memory!
Thank you so much Byron!!!
Maya and Maros
Calle Del Campanario, Panajachel 07010, Guatemala•
2 min · 500 ft
2•BPM 8 — Google reviewMatthias S — Google reviewAlvydas V — Google reviewAlexander R — Google reviewJorge S — Google reviewMARÍA C — Google reviewLuis P — Google review
Church of St. Francis of Assisi
4.7
(26)
4.4
(62)
Church
Sights & Landmarks
Churches & Cathedrals
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi in Panajachel is a significant attraction, named after the town's patron saint. This ancient and stunning colonial church features numerous Catholic sculptures and serves as the hub for Catholic customs and rituals in Panajachel. Visitors can witness local festivals such as Corpus Christi celebrated here in June. The picturesque temple also offers a Saturday evening mass, making it an excellent time for tourists to visit.
Located in the center, looked nice and classic building.
Hussain A — Google review
Beautiful old church!
It's s church....
Not really interesting
Church in the city center, a good benchmark .
Panajachel
(Translated by Google) Colonial church with many sculptures of Catholic worship. Corpus Christi and other local festivals are celebrated in June.
(Original)
Iglesia colonial con muchas esculturas de culto católico. En junio se celebra corpus Christi y otras fiestas locales.
(Translated by Google) The church is named after Saint Francis of Assisi because he is the patron saint of the town of Panajachel.
It is very old, beautiful inside and out. In addition to being the Catholic temple of Panajachel, where mass and all Catholic customs and rituals are celebrated.
(Original)
La iglesia lleva el nombre de San Francisco de Asís porque él es el santo patrón del pueblo de Panajachel.
Es muy antigua, bella por dentro y por fuera. Además de ser el templo católico de Panajachel, donde se celebra misa y todas las costumbres y rituales católicos.
(Translated by Google) Beautiful Church of San Francisco de Asís in Panajachel!...
(Original)
Hermosa Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís de Panajachel!...
1, Iglesia San Francisco, Calle Principal, Panajachel, Guatemala•
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2
Travelers
2
3 min · 0.89 mi
3•Andrew S — Google reviewR C — Google reviewChristine N — Google reviewHope O — Google reviewMr K — Google reviewÖzge T — Google reviewGirina K — Google review
Flor de Café
4.6
(149)
4.6
(9)
Espresso bar
Brewpub
Dessert shop
Flor De Café is a hidden gem located within the Jardines del Lago hotel, offering stunning views of Atitlan Lake. Despite being part of the hotel, it's open to the public and provides an incredible coffee selection and fresh food options. The atmosphere is perfect for relaxation, with swings on the lawn and beautiful bird sounds adding to its charm. Visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
I’m so glad we decided to check this place out. We were here at 8 a.m. and there were only a few other people here. The servers were all so nice and helpful. I had no idea what to order so I went off their suggestions and absolutely loved it! Will definitely come back again on our next trip!
Service was very fast and the prices are very reasonable!
Sarah H — Google review
Very good coffee but the views and atmosphere take this place up a notch! Highly recommend this place if you're looking to hang out and relax for a bit while you're sipping your coffee.
Tucked inside Hotel Jardines del Lago, Flor de Café is a hidden gem with stunning views of Lake Atitlán and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for lingering over tasty food, drinks and great coffee.
This place is beautifully tucked away behind the hotel. The taro latte was one of the best! We got the braided ham and cheese (SO GOOD) and the chicken empanadas. The empanada was dry but with mayo it wasn’t bad.
All in all, I’ll def be making side trips to Pana to come here!
Beautiful location and a huge thank you for making my birthday so special! 🙌 will definitely be back next time I’m in Panajachel!
Honey Latte was a very good 8/10 and the views are 10/10. Food was ok.
A beautiful, peaceful view of the lake, great food and good service, highly recommended
Has one of the beautiful view and garden in Panajachel. Staff are friendly and desserts are good. You can just visit cafe even you are not staying in the Hotel. Cafe in located inside of the Hotel Jardines del Lago.
interior Hotel Jardines del Lago, Calle Monterrey, Panajachel 07010, Guatemala•
10 min · 0.5 mi
4•Andrea A — Google reviewRyan A — Google reviewCarlos B — Google reviewCamilo R — Google reviewScott K — Google reviewDianne V — Google reviewLuis Q — Google review
La Galeria
4.7
(63)
4.5
(40)
Art gallery
Museums
Artist
Cafe
Specialty Museums
La Galeria in Panajachel is a charming art gallery and cultural center that showcases a diverse collection of national and international paintings and sculptures. The space also serves as an exhibition venue for various events such as lectures, films, concerts, and even private gatherings. Visitors can relax in the beautiful garden while enjoying a cup of coffee or attending Sunday brunch. Additionally, La Galeria offers rental units for those looking to stay overnight in this artistic haven located conveniently in the town of Panajachel.
Great gem in the city with beautiful pieces and prints.
Abhilasha P — Google review
Not only an art gallery there's amazing educational projects going on and also a warm sense of community!
This was the highlight of our day-trip to Pana. The property is pretty whimsical and fun to explore. Zenon was very warm and engaging. It's a great place to pick up some Guatemalan paintings at a reasonable price. Thanks for recommending Humaya for lunch Zenon. We loved it.
Nice gallery. If you are in airbnb you can even spend the night there.
Went to a get together and birthday party. The place has one or two rental units and is very well located in the town of panajachel.
This is an art gallery and meeting place for events. It's very chill with nice garden right in town
Very nice place, the gallery, the yard and garden, plus they serve Sunday brunch.
Beautiful gallery and wonderful owners!
PRRV+469, Rancho Grande, Panajachel, Guatemala•
8 min · 2.9 mi
5
Santa Catarina Palopó
Santa Catarina Palopó is a charming municipality situated on the shores of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, just a short distance from the popular tourist destination of Panajachel. The town offers a picturesque coastline that can be enjoyed through an easy and enjoyable hike. Additionally, visitors can explore hot springs built into the lake, providing a unique and relaxing experience.
Guatemala
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Where to eat
Under a 2-minute walk from Crossroads Cafe, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.
Circus Bar
4.5
(2565)
4.1
(634)
affordable
Pizza restaurant
Circus Bar in San Pedro la Laguna, Lake Atitlan is a popular spot offering not only delicious pizza and pasta but also late-night drinks. The bar features live musicians almost every evening, creating a vibrant atmosphere. While the cocktails are a bit pricey, they are well worth it for their great taste. Visitors can enjoy exceptional pizza and generous portion sizes, especially with the pizzas. The restaurant has a busy European vibe and an interesting backstory about the owner's journey to Guatemala.
Had a fantastic dinner here! Pizza and pastas were yummy and the decor was cool to see. We tried the blue cheese ravioli with broccoli and the cream Parmesan spinach ravioli.
Lots of power points for phone charging if that matters to you lol.
They accept cards over a set amount.
I accidentally left something precious to me here and they kept it safe until I came back the next day - very appreciated.
Celine — Google review
We got a basic margarita pizza, it was decent. The horchata was okay and the strawberry Shirley temple was really good! Staff was kind. Loved how the inside of the restaurant looks and I think they have live music on certain nights. Would definitely go back to try some new meals, there was a lot to choose from on the menu!
This place had delicious food and a great atmosphere. We arrived for dinner and ended up staying around 2-2.5 hours eating, chatting and just enjoying the vibes. The food was delicious - definitely recommend the Lasagna Bolognese. Pizzas were good and definitely made with fresh dough!
The Restaurant is very iconic and has a great atmosphere. Service was also solid, while not excellent. We had the Pizzas and they had in our opinion a bit top much cheese on them (never thought I would say that). Next time i would order it with less cheese. The dough was great though. However in my opinion compared to other restaurants in the area not the best value for money and also not the best food. However no waiting and the food arrived quickly. So a solid place you can definitely go for.
Food was really good, generous portions for the price. The pizza mixta was delicious, and the berenjena italiana was amazing. Drinks were a bit small but fair for the price. Service was friendly, though if you’re sitting outside, you might get forgotten. Still was a nice experience overall- would definitely recommend!
Great place, live music was nice, they talk to the people and the atmosphere feels great, they have old posters on the walls, good menu and nice drinks.
We have been to Panajachel many times but first time visiting Circus Bar bcos my family members been there many times . Food and show was amazing kudos to the chef and everyone there.
Great place with awesome food, terrific service and live music. Was my favorite spot in Pana. Looking forward to going back soon. Mario at the bar was friendly, funny and full of great tips for a good time in Lake Atitlan.
Calle de Los Arboles, Panajachel 07010, Guatemala•
Amaranto Hostel
4.6
(262)
4.6
(5)
Restaurant
Bar
Hotel
Amaranto Panajachel offers a unique dining experience in the heart of Guatemala's scenic beauty. The restaurant provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with options to dine indoors or outdoors amidst lush surroundings. Guests can enjoy delicious food, unique cocktails, and craft beer while being treated to friendly service. The venue also hosts cool events with great music and features a pool for guests to relax by.
This is such a cool place! The room was nice. The pool was gorgeous and there’s tons of games you can play all over the campus. We played pool, darts, and bocce ball. I was so sad we didn’t have time to eat pizza. The kitchen opens at 1p so definitely plan it!
But we did have a yummy breakfast and cocktails! I had the spicy Paloma and it was quite good and very spicy. I also loved how they had hammocks everywhere with plenty of seating. Everyone was so nice and helpful too.
K B — Google review
We ate at the restaurant. Great food and drinks. Great service. Played a fun board game while we were there. The staff held our laundry bag for us and got us a tuk tuk when we finished.
This is the best place to go to in Panajachel full stop! We went back multiple times. If we could transport a restaurant like this back to Minnesota we would. The service is great. The food is amazing. And the ambiance is fantastic. The pool is great to dip your toes in while having a cocktail waiting for your meal. We will recommend this place to everyone we know!
We had dinner here great atmosphere great beer. The burger patty was definitely not good. The fries were good. That’s why I’m leaving a four star review and I wish I would’ve let me park in the driveway.
Very nice and cozy. I enjoyed staying there. Their garden is cute. The owner has an artistic taste to do interior decoration.
Just the music was very loud at night which I needed to put ear plugs
We stayed in a hotel room for a night and were really pleased. Good sized room, lovely pool and garden plus bonus amenities in the restaurant such as the pool table. Hard to pin it down exactly but the 'vibe' was also really nice - much better than we'd seen at other hotels we'd looked at.
Everyone that works here is friendly and goes out of their way to help you - wish we could have stayed longer!
We had a lovely time at the bar and lounge. The atmosphere was wonderful and the staff were incredibly friendly, welcoming, and patient, considering our Spanish is not amazing. We ordered a mai tai and a daiquiri which were both delicious and before we could get our food the power went out. The staff were quick to grab candles and placed them on the tables and our food came out promptly despite the lack of power. Once the power returned, the live music began and the vibe was incredible. We enjoyed our pound of wings, jalapeno poppers, and fries in the incredible atmosphere. Truly a wonderful and comforting place. Thanks again for having us, we hope to return :)
We really enjoyed our stayed there. Thanks to Yvanova that gave us a very welcoming arrival and many tips for where to go in Pana. The breakfasts were great thanks to Tanya. The restaurants and the drinks were very nice too. The hostel is 5-10 mins away from the main street. I would go back and recommend for sure.
Rancho Grande, Panajachel 07010, Guatemala•
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2
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2
Guajimbo's
4.5
(1110)
4.4
(517)
affordable
Uruguayan restaurant
Guajimbo's is a popular Uruguayan restaurant located in Panajachel, Guatemala. It is known for its excellent grilled meats such as steak, chicken, and pork, although it also offers great vegan options. The open restaurant concept on Calle Santander adds to its charm. Visitors have raved about the huge portions of perfectly-prepared food, with some considering it the best meal they've had in Panajachel and even one of the top meals in all of Guatemala.
The food here is great. They serve garlic bread, so delicious! I had the shish kabob of steak, soooooo yummy!
Lav L — Google review
It wasn't bad but nothing special, felt more like a canteen than a theme restaurant. My friend had undercooked potatoes. We were supposed to get a salad with our orders but got some boiled veggies instead.
The receipt was higher than it was supposed to be. The waiter corrected it when I asked for the menu to check the prices.
I expected a lot from this place, but It was disgusting!!! All the food tasted gross. The steak, tasted like meat we have never tasted before, so not sure what part of the cow it came from or if it was beef at all, and I am half Argentinian and I eat a lot of meat!!! The chicken was dry and not good and the chorizo almost made me throw up!!! We asked them to make to go and have it to homeless people, which made me feel horrible later. We paid for the meal and went to eat Indian food!!!
Guajimbos was an absolute treat! The steak was cooked perfectly—juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor. What really stood out was the mushroom sauce, it was so unique and paired beautifully with the meat. The portions were generous, and everything came out with that rich, grilled taste that makes you want to savor every bite.
Friendly, accommodating, DELICIOUS and affordable! The owner speaks pretty good English and is hilarious! The burger and grilled cheese was SO GOOD!
"Tourist be Aware"
Was recommended by my Tuk Tuk driver so decided to give it a try for breakfast.
Breakfast was pretty good BUT when time to get the bill, waitress was about to hand me the bill, gentlemen at the register snatched it from her so she wont give me physical bill, then he proceeded to add on a calculator and showed me the total bill in the screen of the calculator instead of handing me the actual physical bill. When I did math he overcharged me cause was a tourist.
We ate dinner here our first night in panajachel and enjoyed the food and the ambiance so much that we returned for lunch a couple days later. Not to be disappointed lunch was just as good and came with a comedy show (just kidding) - but the host was hilarious and went out of his way to give us a couple laughs and make us feel welcome.
The food was excellent - steaks were cooked to perfection and the avocado salad was AMAZING.
Would definitely come back for more!
Best hot chocolate! A group of us came here for lunch yesterday in the pouring rain and we’re so happy with everything we got. It was also the busiest restaurant on the street so it must have a good reputation already.
ElChef
4.7
(192)
5.0
(204)
Restaurant
El Rincon del Chef is a hidden gem located in Panajachel, offering a diverse and attractive menu prepared with fresh ingredients. The chef, with over 30 years of experience, creates delicious dishes such as sea bass with tequila sauce and succulent steak with fresh veggies. The restaurant hosts themed nights like Mexican and Italian, providing unique dining experiences. Despite its unassuming appearance, the quality of food and reasonable prices make it a must-visit spot for an exceptional culinary journey in Guatemala.
A hidden gem! The best restaurant in Guatemala by far! The food is fresh and flavorful and you get to watch the chef make it right in front of you. It was so good we went back two nights in a row 😋 Amazing display of food
Kylie T — Google review
5 stars all around! My partner and I stumbled upon this place and it was seriously some of the best food we’ve had. The fresh cucumber juice is incredible! Definitely stop in and enjoy some delicious food.
The dining experience has been amazing! The food is fresh and the Chef was friendly and passionate. We ordered 8 dishes in total and everything were perfectly prepared under 30 mins. The flavor’s very good and the price was legit.
Best meal in Guatemala, been here 5 months so far! The chef is impeccably trained, every ingredient was cooked to perfection and seasoned well, the flavors were rich and married exquisitely (I could have ordered a glass of the sauce that came over my chicken) and the presentation was artful and enhanced the meal in a pleasant way. To top it off, my meal was made with the freshest ingredients I have come across in the entire country. The chef was also our server and he was warm and welcoming, and had good dietary knowledge and was able to assist my husband in making slight alterations to the dish based on his gastrointestinal sensitivities. 10/10 would highly recommend and will 100% return when we are next in Panajachel.
Very cozy restaurant with great atmosphere and service. The menu of the day during our visit was Mexican. The chef was very polite and friendly and made the food fresh. The portions were very generous as well. If you don’t eat meat don’t hesitate to ask the chef for vegetarians options as he might be able to help. Enjoy!
From the start all the way to the end Chef's customer service was spectacular and the food was even better. If you are vegan/vegetarian he may be able to accommodate your needs so don't be afraid to ask! My SO is vegetarian and was able to get a fettuccine alfredo even though it wasn't on the menu. The food was amazing 5/5 👏
Quaint chef driven restaurant. Daily menu. Everything prepared to order. Food was outstanding! Huge portions and beautiful presentation. Highly recommend giving this place a try.
If you blink you might just miss this little gem! Don’t judge a book by its cover on this one. The chef has over 30 yrs profesional experience working in the finest restaurants and is an expert in culinary art.
We ordered the sea bass with tequila sauce and I had my sea bass with white wine roux sauce. I’ve never had a sea bass so rich in flavor, succulent and crispy layer of skin before. I must have it again!
We also ordered the steak with fresh veggies. Although there wasn’t an appetizer menu the chef whipped us up some magnificent garlic buttered mushroom croquettes. The complimentary fresh cucumber juice was absolutely delicious!
We are definitely going back tomorrow to try more items on the menu although I’m tempted to order the same delicious dishes all over again!
The kitchen is open to view and the chef shares his knowledge of the town while he’s cooking your food which is such a special touch. Chef Israel’s attention to detail is unmatched.
EL Amate, Panajachel, Guatemala•
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Day 5
Visit Azul Rosa
For day 5, stop by Azul Rosa in the morning to start off your day. Then, if time permits, visit Santa Cruz la Laguna as well. If you end up going to all 3, that should fill up about 7 hours.
1Sarah P — Google reviewMr K — Google reviewSiempre G — Google reviewAlan A — Google reviewIris C — Google reviewGirina K — Google reviewMary C — Google review
Azul Rosa
4.4
(167)
Bar
Beach club
Club
Disco club
Azul Rosa is a beach bar located in Panajachel, offering a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Situated on the lakeshore, it provides stunning views of the lake and three volcanoes. The bar serves seasonal fruit cocktails and local liquor, making for an ever-changing menu. During the day, visitors can enjoy smoothies while admiring the lake view, while at night, it transforms into a lively party venue with various events and a selection of beers and cocktails.
The perfect spot right as you step off the boat with beautiful views of the lake. Our cocktails were good, and the ceviche, fish and shrimp tacos were delicious. Definitely recommend!
Vince — Google review
It’s a beautiful ambiance and our waiter was great but unfortunately the food was just bad. It looks pretty, but the shrimp in the tacos tasted like they were frozen before and the “tacos de res” that my partner ordered came with a different meat entirely and none of the toppings that were listed on the menu. If you want to go for a drink it’s fine (a little expensive) but I can’t recommend eating here. Also note that they offer a discount if you leave a good review so many of these reviews are not genuine.
Bumped into this place while we waited for our boat. Gotta say it was such a great experience and so happy we stopped in. Right off the bat I’m a sucker for great service and Gabriel immediately noticed a pin I was wearing and saw that it was my birthday. Gave me a little bday shot and asked us where we were from. At that moment I knew he was a real person and actually cared to get to know the customer. There were a few people both times we passed by and each time Gabriel was on point and doing his thing. He even gave us local recommendations and gave us insight on the local music and cocktail vibes. They played great music each time also plus it’s in a great location. Right next to the main boat dock where you travel to other spots on the lake
Our most beautiful neighbor! Amazing community, electronic music & the best view / sunsets overall.
The best electronic music around the lake, the best view, amazing cocktails & staff.
Really nice staff and place. We enjoyed staying there for the lunch with fresh seafood. We shared a very good moment with the waiter (Gabriel), who showed us some local products.
Really appreciated.
During the day, you can drink smoothies while looking at the lake leisurely, and at night, it is the best party place in Panajachel. In the evening, various beers and cocktails are sold, and various events are held every weekend.
We had delicious cocktails, and the bar had a really great atmosphere. Beautiful views looking out at the lake. Andre made the nicest Palomas!
Lake Atitlan, Calle Principal 4-96, Panajachel, Guatemala•
37 min · 11.8 mi
2
Santa Cruz la Laguna
5.0
(1)
Classes & Workshops
Lessons & Workshops
Santa Cruz La Laguna, situated on the northern shore of Lago de Atitlán in Guatemala, is a municipality comprising the villages of Santa Cruz La Laguna and Tzununá along with four smaller villages. This nearly-vertical town offers stunning views of Lake Atitlan and is perfect for those seeking a workout as navigating its steep streets can give your calves quite the exercise.
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Travelers
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12 min · 0.64 mi
3
Santa Cruz
5.0
(1)
Villa
Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Atitlán, Santa Cruz is a charming village that offers a delightful escape for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. With an array of accommodations ranging from cozy hostels to comfortable hotels, visitors can find something to suit their budget. The village boasts several waterfront options where you can soak in breathtaking views while enjoying your stay.
Sweet little village to stay a few days in. Several water front hotels and hostels that are moderately priced. Many beautiful hikes to take through the mountains to neighboring villages and some restaurants. At the top of the hill, there are several yummy restaurants, CECAP is the best and with a great social mission. At the dock, there are tuk tuks that can take you around the village. La iguana perdida is a fun hostel for nightly activities and family dinners. Many docks are at the lakefront to swim from as well. The village is quiet. Not a space to party, but to be with nature and the lake.
Aisie M — Google review
PQRQ+8RV, Santa Cruz la Laguna, Guatemala, USA
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Where to eat
Even the most seasoned adventurers need a break to chow down some food. Close to Santa Cruz la Laguna, these restaurants are about a 3-minute walk away.
Cafe Sabor Cruceño
4.8
(514)
4.9
(249)
Restaurant
Cafe Sabor Cruceño is a unique restaurant located in Santa Cruz, offering breathtaking views of Lake Atitlan. The cafe serves delicious food prepared by graduates of the cecap culinary program and has both Spanish and English menus. It is part of a project that supports the local community in Santa Cruz. Visitors can also explore a store with crafts downstairs before heading to the cafe upstairs.
Wow! This restaurant really hit the spot and is well worth a visit if visiting Lake Atitlán. I would even say it‘s worth a detour to Santa Cruz if staying in the other areas.
The restaurant itself is very spacious and has indoor and outdoor seating (with nice views of the lake). It’s a bit of trek up to get to, but easily accessible with a tuktuk.
The food was fantastic and beautifully plated. We especially loved the quesadillas with chicken, but everything was really good. Desserts were delicious as well.
It‘s also a nonprofit social enterprise and the food is cooked by graduates of a culinary program. They were all women, super friendly, and hardworking.
They also have a shop on the first floor with really quality goods and offer cooking and other courses!
Jessy — Google review
Best part of this place was the view. The food was good, service was okay but I think our guy was having a hard day so wanted to give him some slack. Felt like the price was a little higher than average for the area but wasn’t significant. Nice spot for a drink and a view
The food and views are amazing here. I came a few times while staying in Santa Cruz- it’s worth the uphill trek! Their espresso was the best I’ve had in Guatemala. I don’t even like chocolate cake but tried theirs and it was melt in your mouth.
Cafe Sabor Cruceño
First actual Guatemalan food experience since being in the country and it was delicious!
The view from the balcony is breath taking as you watch hawks fly around and a rooster shouting in the background.
They seem to do a slot of stew dishes which is perfect for me as I’m a huge fan of anything related to stews.
I had the Pipián 8.8/10
Nice blend of spices in a tomato based stew, bit sweet, seasoned very well, savoury, and overall a strong dish!
Ate every last drop and it was reasonably priced for the portion size and amount of protein you get! Come hungry!
Also order the Kak’Ik 9.1/10
which had a bit of heat to it but nothing crazy as I love spice! Definitely my favourite of the two dishes.
Ready to try more Guatemalan cuisine and very excited to!
The roof top view is incredible. Came here for lunch. Everything we ordered was great. We walked from the dock. It is challenging, straight uphill 20 minutes. Hire a ride when in doubt.
Staff were incredibly friendly and inviting. The food was amazing. The quesadillas were the best I’ve had. The chicken fettuccine Alfredo was excellent.
The view of the lake is by far the best you can get at a restaurant in Santa Cruz.
A must stop if you’re in the area!
This café was such a gem—without a doubt the best view of the lake we saw all week! From the terrace, it feels like you’re looking out from a bird’s-eye view, surrounded by sky and water. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, perfect for slowing down and soaking it all in. I had the Mayan hot chocolate with ginger and cardamom, and it was absolutely delicious—comforting, rich, and perfectly spiced. What made it even more special was knowing that the café supports local weavers, giving back to the community in a meaningful way. A beautiful place with heart, flavor, and an unforgettable view. Just outside the entrance you can see the town center where children are playing soccer and there is a very ancient church.
Went for breakfast. Food was 10/10 and really well priced and the view was insane. Best view we’ve had during our entire stay at Lake Atitlan. It’s also right above a lovely local market selling fresh fruit, vegetables and handmade goods
CECAP Building, Amigos de Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz la Laguna, Guatemala•
RanchonGrill Restaurante
3.7
(120)
3.0
(18)
Restaurant
During a spontaneous visit to RanchonGrill Restaurante, we were pleasantly surprised by the warm hospitality of the staff. Our meal began with an unexpected yet delightful cream of asparagus soup that set a positive tone for the evening. The pesto pasta was flavorful, and I particularly enjoyed the guacamole paired with seasoned chips. The chicken breast filet was also quite tasty!
The food was amazing! I got the Filete de Pollo
Jason U — Google review
Our waiter was excellent and I wish we could say the same about our steak. It was really thin and tough like jerky. Our baked potato was wonderful. Our meal came with a side of soup. I love my fresh fruit, especially how they cut the watermelon into a little Christmas trees. Unfortunately, we were the only people there, but it was Sunday evening. The place was clean.
I WOULD RECOMMEND
We ordered three different kinds of beers, but they were all warm, almost room temperature. I'm not sure if they're not rotating the drinks when stocking the fridge, trying to save on electricity by keeping the fridge temperature low, or if the fridge simply isn't working properly. When we brought it to the staff's attention, they handed us a glass of ice almost as if it were a joke. I won't be returning here and wouldn't recommend it to anyone. There are better and more affordable places around Panajachel.
We ate here spontaneously when we were hungry and didn’t have time to look around much or at ratings. First the positives: the servers were kind. There was a cream of asparagus soup that was brought as a starter that came with it that I wasn’t expecting and it was good. The pesto pasta was good, I liked the guacamole, I really liked the seasoned chips that came in the side of guacamole, and the chicken breast filet was really flavorful. We don’t have much cash and they took card which was convenient. For negatives: I ordered the al pastor tacos and they were the worst I’ve ever had. Very dry and not flavorful. There was a red sauce that came with it that was really bland. And some things that were on the negative side but I think is the same everywhere here is that I was approached by vendors twice while sitting with my kids (my husband had to step away) to see if I wanted to buy something. Also, there are a lot of flies (open air seating!).
As a note, the location is slightly off, the front entrance is right on that Main Street.
Pretty standard tourist trap with everything from fish to hamburgers on the menu.
Ordered a whole fish, but got only the fillet. The vegetables were as soft and mushy as potato mash, and we also received tortillas instead of bread. The fish was nicely cooked though and the rice was tasty too. Also the salsa that comes on the side was pretty good.
Instead of eating here, look for something else. We randomly chose this place for dinner, ordered ceviche and tacos and what did we get? Ceviche was a goblet of a terrifyingly sour and salty set of a few small prawns and pieces of fish with a significant amount of surimi sticks in it. Surimi in ceviche? Jesus... On the other hand, meat in tacos was very poorly seasoned and quite tough, which didn't satisfy us either. I do not recommend.
If u are looking for cheap, basic and delicious food highly recommend this place !!
Decent breakfasts but for the price the restaurant just next door is better value for me.
PRVV+96W, Avenida Santander, Panajachel, Guatemala•
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Panajachel throughout the year
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