You need at least 3 days to explore the best places around Lake Atitlan, take in the views from some of the best photo spots, see a couple villages and experience local life. Although a week would be even better to give you the chance to stay in more than one village and try more of the activities on offer. We have had many people visit us over the years and we usually manage to show them all the main highlights during a very busy week trip. Or you could follow our example and stay for 1-3 months to truly soak it all in. If you don’t have a lot of time to spend at the lake but still want to hit all the best spots, the most efficient way is to sign up for a full-day Lake Atitlan boat tour out of Panajachel. Along with enjoying the fabulous scenery all the way around the lake, this 6-hour tour includes stops in traditional Santiago Atitlán, gorgeous San Juan la Laguna and local coffee plantations and textile shops.