15 Best Photo Spots in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

15 most Instagrammable places in Lake Atitlan

1. Panajachel viewpoint

The coast of Panajachel offers a classic view of the lake, with the volcanoes standing tall in the background. If you are looking for Lake Atitlan postcard views, this is a great place to start. 

Sunrise or sunset is the best time to take photos, but during the day you will see kids playing by the shore, fishermen preparing their boats, and tourists wandering by. 

📍Location: Public beach

2. Corazón Pana Tu Destino in Panajachel

For a fun and somewhat quirky shot, Corazón Pana Tu Destino is the perfect photo spot in Lake Atitlan. The heart-shaped frame at the viewpoint has quickly become a popular Instagram spot to capture the views of Lake Atitlan with a unique touch.

You can easily combine it with Panajachel’s viewpoint, but if you come during the day, you might see a small queue of other photographers on a mission to get that beautiful Lake Atitlan photo.

3. Pier on Calle del Embarcadero in Panajachel

This pier stretches out into the lake and offers a fantastic landscape view of Lake Atitlan. The symmetry of the pier, the stillness of the lake, and the natural beauty around it make it one of the best Lake Atitlan photography spots.

I have to say that during the day, this location is very busy, so early morning is the way to go! If you have to visit it later in the day, you will be constantly photobombed by people and public boats.

📍Location: Calle del Embarcadero

4. Calle Santander in Panajachel

Calle Santander is the heart of Panajachel and another great photo spot in Lake Atitlan. This colorful street is lined with artisan shops, cafes, and market stalls selling everything from textiles to handmade crafts.

Unlike other locations, it is better to visit this street during peak hours! Liveliness brings a different face to this street and market.

5. Café y Restaurante Blue Lake in Panajachel

If you’re looking for the best places to take photos in Lake Atitlan while enjoying a meal, head to Café y Restaurante Blue Lake. This charming spot has a rooftop terrace that overlooks the lake away from tourist crowds and busy piers.

I have to admit that I chose this cafe mostly for the beautiful views and there were not many reviews at the time, so I didn’t have high expectations when it came to food. But this ended up as our best meal in Panajachel!

It is located a short walk away from the main street, but I am sure you will enjoy the walk on the lakeside. Alternatively, you can grab a Tuk Tuk.

6. Umbrella Street in San Juan La Laguna

In the artistic village of San Juan La Laguna, you’ll find Umbrella Street, also known as Calle Chi Nima Ya’. Between the vibrant umbrellas covering the street and colorful paintings on the pavement, this is one of the Insta-worthy places in Lake Atitlan.

If you have a zoom lens, climb to the top of the street and play with an angle with your camera. Earlier in the day you can avoid the crowds, but with a bit of patience, you can get a great shot any time of the day.

📍Location: C. Chi Nima Ya’

7. Street art in San Juan La Laguna

San Juan La Laguna is also famous for its street art, particularly on 5th Avenue. The colorful murals depict scenes of Indigenous life, local history, and nature. These vibrant walls are some of the best-hidden photography spots in Lake Atitlan.

Bring your wide-angle lens and capture these unique paintings. Or play with a perspective and capture the explosion of colors that San Juan La Laguna has to offer.

📍Location: 5th Avenue

8. More colors of San Juan La Laguna

Another colorful street in San Juan La Laguna is Calle al Estadio Municipal. It is lined with vibrant houses and decorated walls that showcase the village’s artistic spirit, which makes it one of the prettiest places in Lake Atitlan.

📍Location: Calle al Estadio Municipal

9. Kayibal – Mirador

For panoramic views of Lake Atitlan, the Kayibal Mirador in San Juan La Laguna is a must-visit. The viewpoint provides an amazing panorama, making it one of the best Lake Atitlan photography spots. 

If you are visiting San Juan La Laguna, take a Tuk Tuk to San Pedro La Laguna and ask a driver for a quick stop at the viewpoint. For a small tip, they will be happy to wait as you snap your Lake Atitlan postcards.

10. Iglesia católica de San Pedro La Laguna and Parque La Puerta Hermosa in San Pedro La Laguna

When you reach San Pedro La Laguna, you can’t miss Parque La Puerta Hermosa. This relaxing park, together with Iglesia católica de San Pedro La Laguna is one of the famous Lake Atitlan Instagram spots.

Inside the park, you will also find a beautiful fountain, some arched pathways, and the Yo Amo San Pedro La Laguna sign. You will want to wander around and photograph different corners of the park.

11. Sababa Restaurant in San Pedro La Laguna

Located on the lakeshore, Sababa Restaurant is known for its delicious food and its fantastic views of Lake Atitlan. The restaurant’s terrace offers prime spots to snap photos of the lake while enjoying a meal or coffee.

I have to say that prices are on the higher end compared to other options. However, I still dream about their iced coffee and the views from the Sababa Restaurant.

12. Vista de Pájaro in San Pedro La Laguna

If you cannot make it to Kayibal – Mirador, Vista de Pájaro in San Pedro La Laguna is another great alternative. I am sure you will love the colorful stairs leading up the viewpoint and the many photo props available at the top.

13. Reserva Natural Cerro Tzankujil

Reserva Natural Cerro Tzankujil in San Marcos La Laguna is an absolute paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Known for its scenic trails, cliff-jumping spots, and peaceful environment, this place offers a lot of photo opportunities.

If you are looking for places to swim around Lake Atitlan, this is one of the best options. You will also find a 12-meter-tall diving platform, which I personally didn’t test, but I am sure some of you would!

👆🏻The entrance fee is Q20 and it is open from 8 am to 4 pm every day.

14. Santa Catarina Palopó Church in Santa Catarina Palopó

The Santa Catarina Palopó Church is one of the most photogenic spots in the village of Santa Catarina Palopó. There are not many other attractions in Santa Catarina Palopó, however, it is an easy trip away from Panajachel and it should be added to your Lake Atitlan itinerary.

The church’s exterior is bright and features traditional Mayan designs. The colorful street art surrounding the church makes it one of the most Instagrammable places in Lake Atitlan.

15. Indian Nose

Indian Nose is arguably one of the best viewpoints around Lake Atitlan. The trail is known for being relatively short but steep, making it a bit of a challenge for beginners and a piece of cake for hiking lovers.

Indian Nose gets its name from the shape of the ridge, which resembles the profile of a face, with the “nose” being the highest point. I wish I would have a photo to share for a better understanding but unfortunately, I was welcomed by a fog and couldn’t see much.

Regardless of the weather, it is still a fantastic hike around Lake Atitlan, and the panoramic views are just the cherry on the cake. I hope you have better luck than I did so you can capture all the beauty of this famous Instagram spot in Lake Atitlan.

In conclusion…

This is the end of the best photo spots in Lake Atitlan and I’m sure that after reading this article you are impatient to get to Guatemala and create some unforgettable postcards.

I believe that these photography tips will help you take epic photos and find the exact locations of the best Lake Atitlan Instagram spots.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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