#16 Atitlan, Guatemala
Population: Just over 15,000
Average Annual Temp: 64°F
Photo by Damian James
Lake Atitlan has often been called the most beautiful lake on earth. Nestled in the Guatemalan Highlands, of the Sierra Madre de Chiapas mountain range, this scenic location combines the richness of the Mayan culture, the beauty of nature, a relaxed and rustic setting, and near perfect weather.
Photo by Damian James
Photo by Damian James
The lake is surrounded by nine small villages, each with its own distinct cultural flare, that are accessible by small boats called lanchas. The bohemian, tourist-driven town of Panajachel is viewed as the jumping off point for the region. Santiago Atitlán,the largest of the lakeside communities, is home of the shrine of Maximón, a local deity combining Mayan beliefs, Catholic saints and conquistador legends. For a quieter setting, San Marcos Las Laguna is widely known for “less party, more meditation”.
Photo by Damian James
Photo by Damian James
Immersion in the small town lifestyle of these lake communities is the perfect way to experience Mayan culture and get away from the frantic pace of 21st century living. Although it’s farther from the more highly travelled tourist areas, Lake Atitlan is still only a two and a half hour drive from Guatemala City and the international airport where there are a growing number of regularly scheduled flights.
Photo by Damian James
Photo by Damian James
Photo by Damian James
Who Else Will Love Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
The Lake Atitlan area is perfect for expats and retirees who are looking to immerse themselves in a local culture, free from modern distractions. Investors will also find the area a fertile location to develop projects as more visitors discover the wonders of this special place.
Photo by Damian James
Lake Atitlan, Guatemala Investment Outlook
As Guatemala’s political situation has stabilized, tourism and foreign investment is once again on the upswing. In areas like Lake Atitlan, where there has only been limited development, prices are still quite affordable. Property taxes are also pleasantly low.. As the growth of tourism in the region continues, further improvements to roads and other parts of the infrastructure will add to the desirability of Lake Atitlan as an investment destination.
Photo by Damian James
Photo by Damian James
Learn About Real Estate in Lake Atitlan.
Listen to a conversation about the Atitlan Real Estate Market. You will learn abut building costs, where to invest, and why Atitlan is amazing. Starts at at minute 42:00
Photo by Damian James
More Atitlan Resources
Here are a few other great sites to help you dig deeper.
- Viva Tropical Top Pick: Lake Atitlan Community
- Atitlan Solutions Real Estate
- Lake Atitlan Guatemala