Sustainable Stays: Eco-Friendly Lake Atitlan Hotels
Lake Atitlan is one of Guatemala’s most visited destinations. It’s home to a majestic lake, the deepest in all of Central America, reaching a depth of 340 meters (1,120 feet). This large body of water spans a vast area and is surrounded by three dramatic volcanoes: San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán.
The weather here is good year-round, with activities to enjoy during both the rainy and dry seasons. It’s the perfect place to unwind, reconnect, and recalibrate.
There is a little something for every type of traveler in Lake Atitlan.
Dotted around the lake are vibrant traditional villages, each with its own signature Indigenous textiles. The local Maya communities are welcoming. You’ll also find pockets of expats scattered throughout, as the area is a popular destination for yoga, meditation, and spiritual retreats.
If you’re headed to the magical shores of Lake Atitlan, there are plenty of accommodations to select from. But why not choose an exceptional stay that is eco-friendly and community-focused?
In this Naturally Smart Travel post, we’re sharing Lake Atitlan hotels that are not only comfortable but also sustainably minded! This roundup boasts some of the best Lake Atitlan Hotels that are owned, operated, and supportive of the surrounding local communities.
Photo Credit: La Iguana Perdida
La Iguana Perdida
La Iguana Perdida, Santa Cruz La Laguna
This family-owned business is celebrating 30 years of hosting visitors from around the world in Lake Atitlan. Tucked along the north shore of the lake, this home away from home offers accommodations for travelers of all budgets and styles, from private to multi-bed rooms.
La Iguana Perdida is super mindful of eco-friendly practices, setting a great example of how sustainable hotels can be done right. The water is solar-heated, and the food is locally sourced. The real magic happens in their community-building efforts and daily dinner, as the entire dining room becomes one big family dinner.
Their work is closely tied to community projects and development. The Amigos de Santa Cruz is an education-focused organization serving the seven immediate communities around Santa Cruz, supporting programs and schools from pre-K all the way through college.
La Iguana Perdida is a rare find with unmatched views. There’s an onsite arcade, pool table, game room, dock, firepit, lounge area, and snack bar. It’s also home to the only dive shop on the lake, Ati Divers, offering fun dives, underwater excursions, and PADI certifications.
For all these reasons, and more, La Iguana Perdida sits at the top of our list for the best eco-friendly Lake Atitlan hotels!
Photo Credit: Maya Moon Lodge
Maya Moon Lodge
Solola, Lake Atitlan, Tzununa la Laguna
If you’re looking for a sanctuary amongst the Lake Atitlan hotels, it’s here! Climb into a hammock and sway with the breeze. Nourish your body with meals that are made and served with heart. Come relax, reconnect, and reflect on the serene lake shores.
Maya Moon Lodge’s open-air restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring home-cooked meals, including chicken, meat, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Many ingredients are sourced from their own organic gardens, ensuring freshness and quality. The restaurant boasts stunning lakefront views, allowing guests to enjoy their meals while overlooking the lake and surrounding volcanoes.
Maya Moon Lodge also offers a variety of activities for you to do as much or as little as you’d like. Choose from stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, hiking, and community yoga classes, all ready to enhance your overall experience.
Even if you don’t want to spend the night, the property welcomes visitors for the day…eat at the restaurant, catch up on some work with the reliable WiFi, nap in a hammock, or paddle out on the lake!
Read more like this: Delightful Guatemalan Cuisine: Exploring the Top Local Foods
Photo Credit Kaalpul Atitlan Eco Hotel and Spa
Kaalpul Atitlan Eco Hotel and Spa
The Shores of Lake Atitlan, San Antonio Palopo
Kaalpul Atitlan Eco Hotel and Spa is a picturesque retreat nestled on the serene shores of San Antonio Palopo, Guatemala. This rural, eco-friendly hotel offers guests a tranquil escape with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The accommodations feature six individually decorated rooms equipped with modern amenities like heated floors, Select Comfort beds, and rainfall showerheads. Guests can indulge in locally sourced vegetarian cuisine, work out at the fitness center, and rejuvenate at the full-service spa with massages or temazcal sessions.
The hotel emphasizes sustainability, utilizing 100% renewable energy and offering activities like kayaking, canoeing, and boat tours to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Photo Credit Hotel Bambu
Hotel Bambu
Carretera San Lucas Toliman, Km 16, Santiago de Atitlán
Hotel Bambu is an eco-friendly retreat nestled on the shores overlooking one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. This is one of the Lake Atitlan hotels that’s known for its commitment to sustainability and its use of natural materials in its construction.
Choose from a variety of accommodations, including bungalows and suites, each designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment. Guests can enjoy stunning views from the hotel's lush gardens. There is a pool, a sauna, a jacuzzi, and kayaks to enjoy while surrounded by nature.
Hotel Bambu also provides opportunities for cultural immersion, with activities such as traditional weaving demonstrations and guided tours of local Mayan villages.
Read more like this: Lake Atitlán: A Cultural and Natural Marvel
Photo Credit Hotel Toliman
Hotel Toliman
Parque de San Lucas Tolimán, 6 avenida 1-26 zona 1, RD-SOL-4, San Lucas Tolimán
Hotel Toliman is a family-run social enterprise located on the waterfront in San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala. As one of the top Lake Atitlan hotels, it offers comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms and a variety of room configurations to suit different needs.
There’s an onsite restaurant, serving both local and international cuisine, prepared with fresh produce from the hotel's organic garden. The property features extensive gardens, a swimming pool, and hammocks for relaxation.
For those seeking adventure, Hotel Toliman boasts a variety of activities. Go hiking, kayaking, and bird watching with opportunities to see the Resplendent Quetzal from February to April.
The hotel is committed to social and environmental initiatives, supporting local communities and operating sustainably.
Photo Credit Eco Hotel Uxlabil Atitlan
Eco Hotel Uxlabil Atitlán
Come and experience harmony in nature while relaxing at this picturesque hotel. Stretching along the lakefront in the safe and friendly town of San Pedro La Laguna is the Eco Hotel Uxlabil Atitlan. This is another one of the Lake Atitlan hotels with great views, while also boasting traditional Mayan architecture and decor.
Eco Hotel Uxlabil Atitlan is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. As a sustainably-minded hotel, they utilize solar energy, promote recycling, and support local communities.
Go hiking and bird watching or explore the nearby Maya villages. The onsite spa services include a Mayan sauna, massages, and a jacuzzi.
Spend the day kayaking on the lake from the private dock, and head to the restaurant to refuel with locally sourced ingredients that deliciously pair with handcrafted cocktails.
The serene environment and focus on sustainability make it a unique destination for eco-conscious travelers.
Photo Credit Eco-Hotel y. Restaurante Mayachik'
Eco-Hotel y Restaurante Mayachik’
Colonia La Esperanza, San Juan La Laguna 07017
Eco-Hotel y Restaurante Mayachik is an eco-friendly getaway nestled in the scenic highlands of Guatemala.
Situated in San Juan La Laguna, Solola, the hotel is committed to sustainable tourism, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience the region's natural beauty while minimizing their environmental impact.
Eco-Hotel y Restaurante Mayachik' features rustic accommodations that have been built with local materials and use solar-powered energy. The hotel is surrounded by organic gardens.
Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking, bird watching, and cultural tours of the local Mayan community. The hotel also offers workshops on traditional crafts and sustainable living practices, providing an immersive cultural experience.
Photo Credit Granja Tz'ikin
Granja Tz’ikin
Tzununa - Lago Atitlan Santa Cruz La Laguna, Sololá
This permaculture farm is doing big things in Lake Atitlan.
Reconnect with nature at the family-owned Granja Tz’ikin. Staying here is a unique experience when it comes to Lake Atitlan Hotels. There’s an onsite sauna, free Wi-Fi, and hiking trails surrounding the property.
The clean and cozy rooms are built out of natural materials. Select from dorm-style accommodations, private, or family rooms. The handmade decorations are used with recycled materials, the water is hot, and the vibes are great.
The farm-to-table restaurant features delicious, healthy meals with organic, fresh, and GMO-free ingredients, grown directly on the property. You can even purchase their vegetables, organic eggs, and goat cheese to bring with you to your next destination.
At Granja Tz’ikin, you can enroll in an intensive week-long permaculture course, volunteer, and participate in a training or workshop. Check their website for the most up-to-date information on events and classes, which range from herbal and mycology courses to yoga classes and kirtan sessions. Close by is Love Probiotics, making this sliver of paradise ideal for health, rejuvenation, and reconnection in beautiful Lake Atitlan.
Enjoy Eco-Friendly Stays at Lake Atitlan Hotels
Thanks for joining us on this eco-friendly journey as we find the best sustainable Lake Atitlan hotels.
We hope you’ve found the perfect one for you!
If you’re ready to start planning a trip to Guatemala, we’re here to help. Reach out, and we can start turning those dreams into reality!
FAQs:
Where Is Guatemala?
Guatemala is located in Central America and has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
In the north, Guatemala shares borders with Mexico and Belize. In the south, Guatemala shares borders with El Salvador and Honduras.
Will My Phone Work in Guatemala?
Yes, most international phones will work in Guatemala; however, roaming charges can be high.
Consider purchasing a local SIM card before traveling or at the airport, but make sure your phone is unlocked to use international SIM cards.
You can also connect to local Wi-F networks available in many hotels and restaurants.
What Biodiversity and Ecosystems Exist in Guatemala?
Guatemala boasts remarkable biodiversity and unique ecosystems. There’s everything from tropical rainforests and cloud forests to active volcanoes and coral reefs.
Guatemala’s diverse landscapes are home to a wide range of plant and animal species, both rare and endemic.
The country’s rich biodiversity offers opportunities for research, conservation, and ecotourism.
Is Guatemala Safe?
Guatemala is generally safe to travel through, especially in the touristy areas like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal. Always remain mindful of your belongings and surroundings, as petty theft, like pickpocketing, may occur.
Hiring a local guide can enhance your overall experience, safety, and confidence.
Take standard precautions, such as exercising caution on public transportation and opting for licensed taxis or ridesharing services like Uber. As well as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping valuables secure, and staying informed about local news.
Are the Power Outlets Compatible with American Plugs, or Do You Need Adaptors?
US travelers do not generally need a power adapter as Guatemala uses 110-volt, 60-cycle electricity, identical to the U.S’s two-pronged flat type.
If your devices have different plug types or require a different voltage, we recommend bringing a universal power adapter to ensure compatibility.
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