I finally went kayaking in Guatemala recently. Having already had a few cool water experiences down my backpacking years such as zodiacing in Antarctica, bamboo rafting in China, tubing in Laos and white water rafting in Juquitiba and Bled in Slovenia it was time for the more peaceful relaxing one – kayaking. Gotta love it and the slow paced nature of Guatemala certainly has you on lazy mode – perfect for a Saturday afternoon of kayaking!
Booking the Kayaking in San Pedro La Laguna, Lago Atitlan
We were based in San Pedro La Laguna at the best hotel in town, Hotel Mikaso (truly magnificent – a paradise). You can book the kayaking from your hotel or hostel but really there is absolutely no need to do that. Simply wander down Calle 7a in San Pedro towards the lake and you’ll see dozens of tour companies.
Most of them offer kayaking. Standard average price is 15 Quetzals per kayak per hour. Pay no more, and if you can get it for less – even better! Panny and I decided to hire a kayak each.
What is kayaking on Lago Atitlan like?
Completely relaxing, charming and well worth it. We got a hot clear sunny day for it which meant gorgeous blue sky and beautiful background and calm lake.
The rowing is easy and not strenuous at all. In fact the only real hazard is the fact that ex pats and rich locals speed past you in their speedboats and cause the odd splash and waves.
The only real tips I have are:
– wear sun cream
– take your camera but look after it (keep it in a waterproof or plastic bag)
– take it easy and relax
– wear your lifejacket
– keep an eye on the time so you don’t go into the second hour. We got our timing almost perfect on 60minutes.
All in all it’s a totally relaxing and pleasurable way to spend an hour or two while touring the Lago Atitlan region.
Here are my videos from Kayaking on Lago Atitlan:
[…] on day trips as well as staying in San Pedro La Laguna (where we did the Indians Nose hike and kayaking on the lake) at the truly relaxing Hotel Mikaso. And then if all that wasn’t enough we decided to cross […]
I’m heading there next month! Can’t wait to hit the waters – I love a spot of kayaking.
David @ That Gay Backpacker recently posted…That Gay Guy: Lucho talks gay life in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Hi David – thanks for your comment and enjoy Lago Atitlan – it’s a great spot!! Safe travels. Jonny
[…] as well, so you can get more than your money’s worth for the room. If you remember we paid for kayaking in Lago Atitlan, it was nice to get a freebie […]
Hi Jonny, nice share. I really like how you’ve enjoyed kayaking on Atitlan Guatemala. It’s indeed a nice place for kayaking and I’m looking forward to visiting there next month for a 1 month trip.
Timothy recently posted…Review on Top 10 sea and touring kayaks
Hi Timothy, thanks for the comment, yes I had a good time there kayaking. Safe travels. Jonny
I have read your article very attentively really this is a very informative article. Thank you for these tips!
Sounds like you really enjoyed the clear day. And I just love your real tips. I always forgot to take it easy and relax 🙂
Hi Larry, thanks for the comment. Stay safe. Jonny
Hi Jared, Thanks for the comment and sorry for the delayed response – I have been struggling with deep depression the last few years and wasn’t checking comments. Good luck backpacking and kayaking – safe travels. Jonny