San Pedro La Laguna: Your Guide to the Top 5 Outdoor Adventures
So, San Pedro La Laguna, that little town on Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, right? It’s pretty much known for, like, stunning views, that sort of laid-back vibe, plus a whole bunch of things you can do in the open air. I mean, there’s quite a range! You’ve got your intense volcano hikes, but then, too, there’s relaxed kayaking on that clear lake. Seriously, whatever you’re into, it’s probably there. Let’s get into the, very, best outdoor activities that, actually, San Pedro has to offer for, like, everyone. Read our full review: San Pedro La Laguna Full Review and Details.
1. Hiking the Nariz del Indio (Indian Nose)
Alright, if you’re up for an early morning trek, hiking Nariz del Indio—or, like, Indian Nose—is, very, much a must. It gets its interesting name, that bit, from its shape that sort of resembles a profile of an, apparently, indigenous person’s face. Many people usually go before dawn so, too it’s almost as if you reach the summit for the sunrise, which I guess provides views of the whole lake, but too with those surrounding volcanoes just drenched in soft morning light. Really, you just have to see it. Seriously, it’s like you’re on top of everything; that perspective. Typically, tours will set you back roughly Q100-Q150. It typically includes transport from San Pedro. Get to the spot a bit early, like maybe 4:00 AM for transport if you are going to do the tour. This is pretty necessary for, like, catching that crazy view. This one will likely provide you a very rewarding start to your day. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book Your Sunrise Hike)
2. Climbing Volcán San Pedro
Now, for a challenge, but still totally worth it, make sure to hike Volcán San Pedro, is that right? So, you’re talking about a solid four- or five-hour trek up, alright, but the views from the top are truly pretty mind-blowing. Seriously, you get this panoramic perspective of Lake Atitlán, alright, all those smaller towns dotting the shoreline, very including San Pedro, alright, where you set off. Usually the tour guides typically charge around Q150-Q200 per person for a tour up this volcano. A few people really like going with the group because the route isn’t very clear on your own; plus the local guides are often just very, very, extremely informative regarding the volcano’s history, as a matter of fact its flora, plus even fauna. Usually they start the ascent at 7:00 AM so too it’s almost as if you beat most of the midday heat. Take with you enough water, so it is almost four liters for that hike. Also, it can become cooler at higher elevations so take a wind-breaker. Once you ascend to that apex, you won’t regret any huffing and puffing once the view has a hold of you. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Volcano Hiking Tour)
3. Kayaking on Lake Atitlán
Are you looking for something quite a bit less strenuous? That would be the lake. Give kayaking a go! That glistening, pretty Atitlán is perfectly serene for a paddle, you know? So, it is almost a bit crazy to think, but for around Q25-Q35 an hour, or at the end of the day about Q100 for half of a day you could basically, or nearly, explore a chunk of, very, the lake. As a matter of fact, a lot of folks, very, much enjoy paddling to nearby San Juan, is that correct, to investigate some, more or less, Mayan textile cooperatives or, arguably, some of the coffee plantations. Alternatively, arguably, you can circle back along, very, the coastline for some nice, secluded viewpoints, or in that case maybe just kick it relaxing right on the water. Honestly, at that pace it seems, still, hard to not enjoy a calming cruise on a kayak. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Kayak Rental)
4. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
And so, there is this really up-and-coming way of being out on Atitlán that has a few of the kayakers moving over, basically. That’s Stand-Up Paddleboarding, you know the acronym SUP! Basically, renting one goes for Q50-Q60 an hour. However you also get that full, awesome view around on account of, actually, standing the full time and just lightly trekking through that surface film of the water. Even if you happen to be new, okay? No problem, alright! The waters tend to be fairly smooth; plus a few places in town offer classes that make for, you know, getting a crash course that’s quick. The other pretty rad element, as I was saying, is getting your zen on just off, still, one of the less-visited shores with only that noise you and your, you know, board make in an utterly stunning environment, that right? See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Paddle Board Rental)
5. Exploring the Cerro Tzankujil Natural Reserve
For only Q50 it can be a day of exploring! Hike through it for those picturesque lake outlooks, or even to find that place where a sacred Mayan alter stands right at its heights, really! Those bolder hearts will also be really hyped after seeing where many visitors cliff dive down into Atitlán. Basically, people say a plunge from those boards there provide one very memorable way to plunge into its cool, very, waters. The park just outside San Pedro town can just, well, fill your Instagram with those landscapes that make you really rethink your city routine, as a matter of fact, right? See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Visit the Park)
