Santa Cruz La Laguna - Discovering Guatemala

Travelling to Santa Cruz La Laguna

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santa Cruz La Laguna, a pretty good destination in Guatemala (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santa Cruz La Laguna and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santa Cruz La Laguna, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Guatemala, here's everything to know about Santa Cruz La Laguna for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santa Cruz La Laguna

Santa Cruz La Laguna is a small indigenous community located on the shores of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The town has a population of approximately 3,000 people, most of whom are indigenous Mayans, and it has a unique culture, language, and traditions. Santa Cruz La Laguna is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and swimming, as well as to experience the local culture and cuisine.

What to visit in Santa Cruz La Laguna

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Santa Cruz La Laguna, Guatemala: 1. Centro Cultural Tz'unun Ya': This cultural center offers classes and workshops on traditional Mayan weaving, as well as a museum showcasing Mayan textiles and artifacts.
2. Mirador El Pico de Cielo: This viewpoint offers spectacular views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes, including Volcán San Pedro and Volcán Tolimán.
3. Reserva Natural Atitlán: This nature reserve offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can also go kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake.
4. Casa Cakchiquel: This historic hotel and cultural center was once a gathering place for artists and writers in the mid-20th century, including the likes of Aldous Huxley and Ingrid Bergman. Today, it offers a restaurant, bar, and art gallery.
5. Iglesia Santa Cruz: This 16th-century church is one of the oldest in the region and features a beautiful façade and antique furnishings.
6. Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Asunción: This 17th-century church is located in the neighboring town of Santa María Visitación and features a striking baroque façade and colonial-era paintings.
7. Museo Tz'unun Ya': This small museum showcases traditional Mayan clothing, tools, and handicrafts, as well as information about the Tz'utujil Maya people who live in the area.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Guatemala, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Santa Cruz La Laguna

The best time to visit Santa Cruz La Laguna in Guatemala is during the dry season, which is between December and April. During these months, the weather is sunny and there is less chance of rain, making it an ideal time to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and swimming in Lake Atitlán. Keep in mind that the weather can be cooler at night, so be sure to bring some warm clothing if you plan to go out in the evening.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santa Cruz La Laguna

To get to Santa Cruz La Laguna, Guatemala, you can follow these steps: 1. Fly to La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City.
2. Take a shuttle van or taxi from the airport to Panajachel, which takes approximately 3 hours. This is the closest town to Santa Cruz La Laguna that can be reached by road.
3. Once you reach Panajachel, take a water taxi or a private boat to Santa Cruz La Laguna. The boat ride takes about 20 minutes and costs around Q25 to Q30 per person.
Please note that boat schedules usually run until late afternoon. If you arrive in Panajachel late at night, it's a good idea to stay overnight in Panajachel and take the boat to Santa Cruz La Laguna the next day.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santa Cruz La Laguna, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santa Cruz La Laguna

Santa Cruz La Laguna is located in the western highlands of Guatemala and is known for its traditional cuisine that reflects the Mayan culture and agricultural practices of the region. Here are some typical foods of Santa Cruz La Laguna: 1. Pepian - This is a traditional Guatemalan stew made with meat (often chicken), vegetables, and a sauce made from roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, tomatoes, and chili peppers.
2. Chiles Rellenos - This dish consists of poblano peppers stuffed with meat, cheese, and vegetables, and then fried or baked.
3. Tamales - Tamales are a popular dish throughout Latin America. In Santa Cruz La Laguna, tamales are made with corn dough mixed with seasoned meat, wrapped in a banana leaf, and steamed.
4. Kak'ik - This is a spicy turkey soup made with spices, vegetables, and herbs, and is usually served with a side of rice.
5. Atol de Elote - This is a sweet corn drink made with corn kernels, water, sugar, and cinnamon, and is often served hot.
6. Tortillas - Tortillas are a staple food in Guatemala, and are served with almost every meal. They are made from corn dough and are cooked on a griddle.
7. Rellenitos - Rellenitos are a dessert made from mashed plantains stuffed with sweetened black beans and then fried.
8. Chirmol - Chirmol is a sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers, and is often served with grilled meats or vegetables.
9. Arroz con leche - This is a rice pudding made with rice, milk, and sugar, and is often flavored with cinnamon or vanilla.
10. Pinol - Pinol is a traditional Mayan drink made from toasted maize and water, and is often served hot. It is often used as a substitute for coffee in the region.
You can find general info about typical foods in Guatemala here.

Is Santa Cruz La Laguna an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other tourist destinations in Guatemala, Santa Cruz La Laguna may be considered a bit more expensive. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can be higher in this area due to its popularity among tourists. However, the cost of living in Guatemala is generally lower than in many other countries, so it may still be affordable for many travelers. It's recommended to plan and budget accordingly, and to compare prices of different accommodations and activities before making a decision.

Where to find accomodation in Santa Cruz La Laguna

For a visit to Santa Cruz La Laguna in Guatemala, it is best to look for accommodation near Lake Atitlan. Specifically, Santa Cruz La Laguna is one of the villages or towns that surround the lake, so you can find accommodation in any of those towns such as San Pedro La Laguna, San Marcos La Laguna, Panajachel, or Santiago Atitlan. However, if you want to stay close to Santa Cruz La Laguna, then you should look for accommodation in Santa Cruz itself or neighboring towns like Tzununa or Jaibalito.
You can check hotel prices at Santa Cruz La Laguna here:
Booking.com

Is Santa Cruz La Laguna a safe destination for tourists?

Generally, Santa Cruz La Laguna is considered a safe place for tourists in Guatemala. However, like any other place, there are safety concerns that travelers must be aware of and take precautions to ensure their safety. It is essential to exercise caution when exploring unfamiliar areas, especially if traveling alone or at night. It is also recommended that you avoid wearing flashy jewelry and carrying large amounts of cash. Additionally, it would be best if you kept an eye on your belongings and be careful with them. By taking basic precautions, you can minimize your risk and ensure that your trip to Santa Cruz La Laguna is a safe and enjoyable one.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Guatemala here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santa Cruz La Laguna.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santa Cruz La Laguna the most?

Santa Cruz La Laguna in Guatemala is a beautiful lake town that offers something for every type of traveler. Couples will definitely enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the town and the stunning views of Lake Atitlán. There are charming restaurants and cafes to enjoy a romantic dinner or drink with stunning views of the lake and mountains.
Young people looking for fun can also have a great time in Santa Cruz La Laguna. There are many adventure activities that can be enjoyed such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking. At night, there are some lively bars and clubs to enjoy.
Families can also enjoy Santa Cruz La Laguna. There are child-friendly activities such as swimming and sailing on the lake, and there are some great family-friendly restaurants to choose from.
Overall, Santa Cruz La Laguna can be enjoyed by anyone looking for beautiful scenery, delicious food, and outdoor activities.

How to get around Santa Cruz La Laguna

In Santa Cruz La Laguna, the main form of transportation is by boat across the lake, as the village is located on the shores of Lake Atitlán. There are public boats which run regularly between the different villages around the lake, and private boats can also be arranged. There are no cars or roads in the village, so walking is the most common way to get around once you're in town.

What to see around Santa Cruz La Laguna

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Santa Cruz La Laguna: 1. Panajachel: A colorful town on the shores of Lake Atitlán known for its markets and artisanal crafts.
2. Santiago Atitlán: A traditional Mayan town famous for its markets, textiles, and beautiful church.
3. San Juan La Laguna: A charming town known for its art galleries, murals, and local cooperatives producing handmade textiles and pottery.
4. Tzununa: A tranquil and off-the-beaten-path village, perfect for hiking, bird watching, and relaxing.
5. Chichicastenango: A popular destination for its famous market, ancestral traditions, and stunning views of the mountains.
6. Sololá: A historic city with indigenous roots, known for its colonial architecture and local festivals.
7. Quetzaltenango: A vibrant city with a thriving cultural scene, natural hot springs, and beautiful landscapes.
All of these destinations can be easily reached by boat or car, offering a different and unique experience that will make your trip unforgettable.
For every travel information about Guatemala you can click here.

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