Things to do in Sololá Department
Discover the best attractions and experiences Sololá Department has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the colonial-era churches, plazas, and traditional streets around Lake Atitlán that reveal Sololá’s history.
Iglesia Parroquial de Sololá
A centuries-old parish church that serves as a local landmark in Sololá town.
Centro Histórico de Panajachel
Historic streets and plazas in Panajachel reflecting colonial-era town planning.
Iglesia de San Pedro La Laguna
A traditional church visible from the lakefront in San Pedro La Laguna.
Museums
Learn about Atitlán’s culture, textiles, and lake history at small local museums.
Museo Textil de San Juan La Laguna
Showcases traditional weaving and textile techniques from the Guatemalan Highlands.
Museo Lacustre de Atitlán
Exhibits focused on the Lake Atitlán region and its communities.
Casa Museo Panajachel
A small cultural house highlighting local history and daily life.
Religious Monuments
Visit active churches and religious landmarks that anchor community life around the lake.
Iglesia de Santa Catarina Palopó
Colorful church with lake views in Santa Catarina Palopó.
Iglesia de San Juan La Laguna
Historic church in the art-focused village of San Juan La Laguna.
Iglesia de San Pedro La Laguna
Village church set against the backdrop of Lake Atitlán.
National & Theme Parks
Natural attractions around Lake Atitlán offer landscapes, viewpoints, and wildlife.
Lago de Atitlán
The lake itself is the region’s centerpiece, surrounded by terraces and villages.
Isla Santa Cruz
One of the Atitlán islands with walking paths and lake views.
Reserva Natural Atitlán (Laguna Atitlán area)
Protected natural area around the lake with hiking routes.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant lake towns are each worth a stroll for crafts, cafes, and lakeside vibes.
Panajachel
Main gateway to Atitlán with markets, cafés, and lakeside walks.
San Pedro La Laguna
Lively village known for backpacker culture and cafés.
San Juan La Laguna
Quaint village famous for textile art and cooperative studios.
Free Things to Do
Capture the beauty of the lake and villages on foot or by enjoying public views.
Walk along the Panajachel promenade
Take in views of the lake and volcanoes without an admission fee.
Sunrise hike to local viewpoints
Short treks around the lake offer spectacular early-morning vistas.
Stroll Panajachel Market
Observe local life and crafts as you wander the stalls (free to browse).
Gastronomy
Taste Guatemalan flavors in lakeside eateries and traditional kitchens.
Pepian
A rich Guatemalan stew with roasted spices and meat.
Rellenitos de plátano
Sweet plantain dough stuffed with beans or guava.
Tamales guatemaltecos
Traditional tamales with masa, meat, and sauce.
Nightlife
Casual bars, cafés, and live music spots light up after sunset in Atitlán towns.
Cafés and bars in Panajachel
Casual evening spots with local coffee and drinks.
Live music evenings in San Pedro La Laguna
Relaxed venues featuring local performers.
Entertainment
Local performances and cultural experiences reflect Maya heritage and lake life.
Traditional dances at town events
Seasonal performances celebrating local culture.
Artisan markets in San Juan La Laguna
Colorful stalls with crafts and textiles.
Cultural workshops in Atitlán villages
Hands-on experiences with weaving or pottery.
Sports
Active travelers can hike, kayak, and explore the surrounding terrain.
Kayaking on Lake Atitlán
Paddle among villages with views of volcanoes.
Hiking Volcán San Pedro
Accessible trek with rewarding crater views.
Treks to lake viewpoints around Panajachel
Short but scenic hikes for sunset perspectives.
Off the Track
Discover lesser-known corners, coffee farms, and homestays that reveal daily life.
Homestay experiences in San Juan La Laguna
Stay with a local family and learn weaving or cooking.
Coffee farm visits near Sololá
Tour smallholdings and taste fresh Guatemalan coffee.
Hidden village trails around Santa Cruz La Laguna
Quiet paths with lake panoramas and local gardens.