Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort - Rustic Luxury on Lake Atitlán

About Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort

Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort is one of those rare places where the journey to arrive is part of the magic. Perched on the lush north shore of Lake Atitlán in the tiny village of Santa Cruz La Laguna, this eco-luxury retreat is accessible only by boat — a deliberate choice that ensures total immersion in one of the world's most breathtaking natural settings. As your lancha cuts across the lake's impossibly blue waters, the lodge emerges from the verdant hillside like something from a dream: stone pathways winding through tropical gardens, thatched-roof structures blending with the forest canopy, and panoramic views of three towering volcanoes — San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán — reflected in the lake below.

Founded with a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and community development, Laguna Lodge was built using local materials and traditional construction techniques. The walls are made of stone, adobe, and reclaimed wood; the roofs are thatched with dried palm fronds; and the décor incorporates handcrafted textiles and art from nearby Maya Kaqchikel communities. The lodge operates on solar energy, uses composting systems, and sources as much food as possible from its own organic gardens and local farmers. This isn't greenwashing — it's a genuine ethos that permeates every aspect of the experience, from the chemical-free pool to the locally sourced cuisine.

What makes Laguna Lodge truly special, however, is the feeling it evokes. There's no road noise, no urban glow, no rush. The soundtrack is birdsong, lapping water, and the occasional distant sound of a marimba from the village below. Guests come here to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature, themselves, and the ancient Maya culture that has called this lake home for millennia. Whether you spend your days practicing yoga on a platform overlooking the lake, soaking in a traditional temazcal (Mayan steam bath), or kayaking to neighboring villages, Laguna Lodge delivers a transformative experience that lingers long after you leave.

Location

Lake Atitlán, often described as the most beautiful lake in the world, sits at 1,562 meters above sea level in the Guatemalan Highlands, cradled by steep green mountains and framed by a trio of volcanic peaks. Laguna Lodge occupies a privileged position on the north shore, in the village of Santa Cruz La Laguna — one of the lake's quietest and most traditional communities. The village is home to the Maya Kaqchikel people, whose cultural traditions, woven textiles, and agricultural practices have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Staying here means being enveloped by living indigenous culture rather than observing it from a tourist bus.

Getting to Laguna Lodge is an adventure in itself. Most guests fly into La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, then travel to Panajachel (known locally as "Pana") — the main tourist hub on the lake's north-eastern shore — via a 2.5-3 hour drive through the highlands. From Panajachel, a private boat arranged by the lodge whisks guests across the lake in about 20 minutes. The boat ride is spectacular, with the volcanoes growing larger with every minute. The lodge can also arrange transfers from Antigua Guatemala, approximately 3 hours away. Once at the lodge, neighboring villages like San Marcos La Laguna (known for its holistic retreats), San Juan La Laguna (famous for its art cooperatives), and Santiago Atitlán (the cultural capital of the Tz'utujil Maya) are all reachable by short boat rides.

Rooms and Accommodations

Lakeview Casita

The Lakeview Casitas are the heart of the Laguna Lodge experience. These freestanding stone-and-wood cottages sit on the hillside with unobstructed views of Lake Atitlán and the volcanoes beyond. Each casita features a king or two double beds, private terrace with hammock, open-air bathroom with volcanic stone shower, handwoven textiles, and locally crafted wooden furniture. The design is intentionally rustic-luxe: no television, no air conditioning (the highland climate keeps things naturally cool), but supremely comfortable beds, quality linens, and thoughtful touches like candles and fresh flowers. Approximately 35 square meters of indoor space, plus the terrace.

Garden Suite

Set deeper within the lodge's tropical gardens, the Garden Suites offer additional space (approximately 45 square meters) and enhanced privacy. These suites feature a separate sitting area, a larger bathroom with soaking tub and outdoor shower surrounded by tropical plants, a private garden patio, and the same rustic-luxe aesthetic as the casitas. Ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone wanting extra room to spread out, the Garden Suites include welcome amenities, premium organic bath products, and complimentary yoga mat for in-room practice.

Honeymoon Suite

The most secluded accommodation at the lodge, the Honeymoon Suite is positioned at the highest point of the property for maximum privacy and the most dramatic panoramic views. This expansive suite (approximately 60 square meters) includes a canopy king bed draped in Guatemalan textiles, a spacious living area with day bed, a private outdoor jacuzzi with volcano views, an open-air bathroom, and a wraparound terrace with hammock and dining area. Couples receive a welcome bottle of wine, fresh fruit, chocolate truffles, and can arrange private dinners on their terrace under the stars.

Family Casita

Designed for families or small groups, the Family Casita offers two connected sleeping areas — one with a king bed and one with two twin beds — sharing a large bathroom and a generous private terrace. At approximately 50 square meters, it provides the space families need while maintaining the lodge's aesthetic of natural materials and lake views. Cribs can be added upon request.

Things to Do

Traditional Temazcal Ceremony

The temazcal (Mayan steam bath) is one of Laguna Lodge's signature experiences. Led by a local Maya guide, this ancient purification ritual takes place in a stone dome heated by volcanic rocks. Medicinal herbs are added to the steam, and the guide leads participants through a ceremony of intention-setting, chanting, and meditation. The experience is physically intense and spiritually profound — guests often describe it as one of the highlights of their trip. Sessions are available daily and can be private or shared.

Yoga and Meditation

The lodge's open-air yoga platform, perched above the lake with 180-degree volcano views, is arguably one of the most spectacular yoga settings in Central America. Daily group classes are offered in various styles — vinyasa, hatha, restorative — and private sessions can be arranged. Guided meditation sessions at sunrise, when the lake is glass-still and the light is golden, are particularly magical. The lodge also hosts periodic week-long yoga retreats with visiting international instructors.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

The lodge maintains a fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards available to guests at no extra charge. Paddle along the north shore to discover hidden coves, observe waterbirds, and visit neighboring villages accessible only by water. The morning hours, when the lake is calmest, are ideal for paddling. Guided kayak excursions to San Marcos La Laguna or the nature reserve at Cerro Tzankujil can also be arranged.

Hiking to Mayan Villages

Several excellent hiking trails depart directly from the lodge. A moderate 45-minute trail leads to the village of Jaibalito, passing through coffee groves and forest with excellent birdwatching opportunities. A longer hike ascends to the mountain village of Soledad, offering breathtaking aerial views of the entire lake. The lodge can arrange local guides who share knowledge of medicinal plants, Maya history, and the ecology of the lake basin.

Birdwatching

The forests around Laguna Lodge are home to over 200 bird species, making it a haven for birders. Keep an eye out for the resplendent quetzal (Guatemala's national bird and symbol), toucans, motmots, hummingbirds, and various species of tanagers and warblers. The lodge can arrange guided birdwatching walks with experienced local naturalists who know the best spots and calls.

Visit San Juan La Laguna

A short boat ride from the lodge, San Juan La Laguna is one of Atitlán's most culturally rich villages. Known for its women's weaving cooperatives, natural dye workshops, and vibrant street murals, San Juan offers an intimate look at contemporary Maya artistic traditions. Visit the Tz'utujil art galleries, learn about the back-strap loom weaving process, and purchase textiles directly from the artisans who made them.

Dining

The Lake House Restaurant

Laguna Lodge's main restaurant occupies a stunning open-air space overlooking the lake, with a thatched roof supported by massive wooden beams. The menu is farm-to-table, drawing heavily on ingredients from the lodge's organic garden, local farms, and the lake itself. Breakfast features fresh tropical fruit, eggs from nearby farms, homemade granola, and Atitlán-grown coffee. Lunch and dinner menus change regularly but might include grilled fish with pepián sauce, roasted vegetable tostadas, or slow-cooked chicken in recado negro. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available and genuinely creative — not afterthoughts.

The Sunset Bar

Positioned at the edge of the property with the best sunset vantage point, the bar serves craft cocktails using local ingredients — think hibiscus-infused mezcal, tamarind margaritas, and fresh mint mojitos made with herbs from the garden. Guatemalan rum, artisanal beers from the growing Guatemalan craft scene, and a selection of wines are also available. The bar operates on an honor system during certain hours, adding to the lodge's communal, trust-based atmosphere. On clear evenings, watching the sun sink behind the volcanoes from this perch is an almost religious experience.

Private Dining

For special occasions, the lodge arranges private dining experiences in several locations — your room terrace, the garden gazebo, or even the yoga platform. A multi-course meal is prepared by the kitchen team and served by candlelight, accompanied by wine pairing. This is an especially popular option for honeymooners and anniversary celebrations, with menus customized to dietary preferences and culinary desires.

Why Stay at Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort

• Only accessible by boat, guaranteeing an escape from roads, traffic, and noise — true disconnection in a hyperconnected world
• Stunning volcano and lake views from every room, the restaurant, the yoga platform, and the bar — arguably the best views on Atitlán
• Authentic Mayan cultural experiences including temazcal ceremonies, village visits, and textiles made by local artisans
• Genuine sustainability with solar power, organic gardens, composting, local sourcing, and community employment — eco-tourism done right
• Holistic wellness offerings including daily yoga classes, meditation sessions, kayaking, hiking, and spa treatments in a setting that heals simply by existing

Explore more incredible lakeside stays in our guide to the Top 10 Hotels at Lake Atitlán.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Laguna Lodge from Guatemala City?

The most common route is to fly into La Aurora International Airport (GUA), then travel by private transfer or shuttle to Panajachel (2.5–3 hours by road). From Panajachel's public dock, the lodge arranges a private boat transfer of about 20 minutes. The lodge can coordinate all transfers door-to-dock. Alternatively, you can travel from Antigua Guatemala (about 3 hours by road to Panajachel).

Is there Wi-Fi and phone signal at the lodge?

Yes, the lodge offers Wi-Fi in common areas and rooms, though speeds are modest given the remote location. Cell signal is available but can be spotty. The lodge encourages guests to embrace the disconnection — many visitors find that limited connectivity is actually one of the best parts of the experience.

What should I pack for a stay at Laguna Lodge?

Pack layers, as highland temperatures can range from cool mornings (12°C/54°F) to warm afternoons (25°C/77°F). Comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain jacket (especially May–October) are essentials. Bring yoga attire if you plan to attend classes. The lodge provides towels, toiletries, and yoga mats.

Is Laguna Lodge suitable for non-adventurous travelers?

Absolutely. While the lodge offers plenty of active pursuits, it's equally suited for relaxation. Many guests spend their days reading in hammocks, enjoying the pool, receiving spa treatments, and simply gazing at the lake. The boat transfer is short and comfortable, and the lodge grounds are well-maintained with gentle pathways. You don't need to be athletic to enjoy Laguna Lodge.

Can the lodge accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, the kitchen is very accommodating with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs. Because the menu is prepared fresh daily using seasonal ingredients, the chefs can easily adapt dishes. Simply inform the lodge of any dietary requirements at the time of booking or upon arrival.