San Marcos la Laguna, Lake Atitlan

Magical and mystical, the town of San Marcos is one of the lake’s most intriguing places to stay or visit on a day trip.
A mere 10-minute boat ride from San Pedro, it also makes a good day trip from other villages, though an early start (or perhaps an overnighter) is suggested if leaving from Panajachel or Santiago.

Walking through the fragrant stands of pine and cedar and beneath a canopy of vines, flowers and tree limbs is like entering an enchanted forest. At times you almost expect to see flying monkeys overhead.

Banana trees, flowers, lush vegetation, lizards and butterflies—this part of the lake feels more tropical than the rest of the towns and villages except for Santa Cruz. A pleasant breeze and the sound of the surf lapping at the rocks add to the magical experience.
Several trails connect the main "streets" of the lower part of San Marcos, where most hotels and tourism businesses are centered.

A stroll along here is far more quiet and peaceful—so tranquil that just wandering through San Marcos qualifies as meditating.
San Marcos is a village where you can really interact with the local people, get involved in the community and experience the daily routine and ancient traditions of the indigenous Mayan people.

Things to Do

The town boasts many attractions, from nature hikes, to the "rocks" area and beach, to therapy sessions and workshops. For the most up-to-date information and booking services, drop by The Hub on the main path up from the dock, where you can get a detailed map of San Marcos. They also offer tips and advice on hotels, dining, transportation, house rentals and community events.

Boat, Weaving and Camping Tours

Tours range from a luxury speed-boat trip to sacred sites such as Cerro de Oro and other destinations, a sunrise cruise, hiking to the waterfalls, Santa Cruz (or as far as Xela’s Hot Springs) and the volcanoes and Indian Nose, to women's textile co-ops. The Cloudy Forest camping adventure offers a tree house in a secluded and primeval setting with a yoga and meditation platform if you really want to experience nature.
You can wonder through the narrow trails and up into el centro and further up to the elephant rock in the valley.

Therapy and Healing

Many facilities offer massages and workshops, Chakra reading, yoga, therapy, meditation Tarot cards, and related disciplines. Flower House Therapy Center is on the main trial as you head up from the dock.

There are Spanish schools for those staying a week or longer. Tours and other activities can be booked at the Information HUB .
Shops are scarce, but you can stock up on hard to find items like massage oils, incense, natural shampoos and soaps, and therapeutic teas such as purple basil. Tienda 2012 has a wide assortment of jewelry, incense and pipes. Also a Q1 paca with used clothes, new clothing and lingerie.

Hiking and Picnicking

If you like hiking, trek up the hillside path to the “sacred area,” which offers a secluded and lofty view of the lake. Like the beach, it is a good place for a picnic or box lunch. Near the peak is a big medicine wheel made of stones.

A five-minute walk to the “rocks” area leads to a big mirador facing San Pedro, where you can jump 30 feet from a platform into the lake or simply bathe in the sun and read a book. Musicians sometimes play there in the afternoon.

Dining, Nightlife, Lodging

San Marcos covers everything from vegetarian sushi to surf and turf. See page 15 for recommended places.
Ganesh, Fe’s tropical garden bar and Blind Lemon's have live music throughout the week, and Blind Lemon’s shows first-run movies on a big screen.

Leaving San Marcos: (What? You just got here!) The last boat to Pana leaves at 7:15 PM, to San Pedro at 7:30 PM. Tuk tuks run between San Marcos and San Pedro.

For more information, send email to The HUB. Or call 502-3030-1658 or 502-3031-6508.