Things to do in Panajachel

Activities, attractions and tours

Panajachel showing boating, a bay or harbour and a lake or waterhole
Panajachel which includes boating, a bay or harbour and a lake or waterhole
Panajachel featuring interior views
Panajachel showing signage and street scenes
Panajachel which includes street scenes
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Top places to visit

1. Lake Atitlán

Visit the Lake Atitlán area to explore indigenous villages, trek through volcanic highlands and dive, kayak or swim in Central America’s deepest lake.
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Lake Atitlan showing a lake or waterhole, boating and landscape views

2. Panajachel Municipal Market

Spend an afternoon experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of Panajachel Municipal Market. Chat with friendly stall owners and purchase typical Guatemalan wares and made-for-tourist souvenirs. Mingle with a mix of locals and tourists as you wander between the market stalls.
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Panajachel Municipal Market showing markets

3. San Pedro Volcano

Enjoy a hike though lush scenery to the top of 9,908-feet (3,020-meter) tall San Pedro Volcano. This inactive volcano rises up over San Pedro La Laguna, a town on the western bank of Lake Atitlán. Admire the breathtaking views of the lake’s glistening water, encompassing mountains and waterfront villages.
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San Pedro Volcano which includes general coastal views and a sunset as well as a small group of people

4. Atitlan Volcano

Atitlán Volcano (Volcán de Atitlán) is an 11,598-foot-tall (3,535-meter) volcano that rises above the southern shores of Lake Atitlán. Marvel at the colossal beauty of Atitlán Volcano from lakeside towns and boats crossing the lake. Climb to the volcano’s summit for magnificent views of the Guatemalan highlands. Camp overnight and wake up to a memorable sunrise.
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Atitlan Volcano showing a bay or harbour, general coastal views and mountains

5. Church of Saint Francis

The Church of St. Francis of Assisi is a survivor. The 16th-century Catholic building has made it through the centuries despite several earthquakes that have rocked the area. Although patched up and reconstructed on numerous occasions, parts of the original structure remain to this day. Devote at least an hour to surveying the thick stone façade and the works of art that decorate the interior.
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Church of Saint Francis which includes a church or cathedral and heritage elements

6. Azul Maya Archaeological Museum

The Azul Maya Archaeological Museum (Museo Arqueológico Azul Maya) is a small gallery that showcases original objects discovered across all of Guatemala’s Mayan regions. The museum’s founder established the exhibition after gathering artifacts while traveling extensively through the country. Azul Maya Archaeological Museum forms part of a family-run hotel. Relax in the courtyard and garden before or after touring the collections.
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Lake Atitlan showing a garden

What to do in Panajachel

Popular places to visit

Panajachel Municipal Market featuring markets as well as a small group of people

Panajachel Municipal Market

Experience some of Guatemala’s indigenous traditions as you browse the stalls of this colorful market and shop for handcrafted souvenirs and fresh produce.

Panajachel Municipal Market
Church of Saint Francis which includes a church or cathedral and heritage elements

Church of Saint Francis

Admire the art and architecture of the old Catholic church in Panajachel that is dedicated to the town’s patron saint.

Church of Saint Francis
Lake Atitlan showing a garden

Azul Maya Archaeological Museum

Browse a private collection of Maya artifacts, such as jewelry and pottery, amassed by a local man during his travels throughout Guatemala.

Azul Maya Archaeological Museum

Casa Cakchiquel Arts Center

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Casa Cakchiquel Arts Center in Panajachel. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Casa Cakchiquel Arts Center

La Galeria

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in La Galeria during your trip to Panajachel. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

La Galeria

Museo Raúl Vasquéz

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Museo Raúl Vasquéz in Panajachel. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Museo Raúl Vasquéz
Photo by Krystina Sweet

Santa Catarina Palopo

Frequently asked questions

Is Panajachel worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor pursuits and history, there are many great things to do in Panajachel. Make sure to discover the area's blend of unmissable sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Panajachel?
San Jorge Lookout and Casa Cakchiquel Arts Centre are two excellent places to kick-start your holiday adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Panajachel while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Panajachel?
The top tourist attraction in Panajachel is San Jorge Lookout, so make sure to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Panajachel?
Three days in Panajachel is enough to enjoy the city's leading attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. San Jorge Lookout, Church of Saint Francis and Santa Catarina Palopo Church are top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Antigua Guatemala.
What are some activities to do in Panajachel with kids?
Planning what to do in Panajachel with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there are loads of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them happy here.

What to do in Panajachel for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Panajachel, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Los Elementos Day Spa or Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó.
Are there free things to do in Panajachel?
In Panajachel, San Jorge Lookout is a popular spot for anyone planning to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a great way to explore the best free things to do in Panajachel.