The 15 Best Wedding Venues on Lake Atitlan in 2024

Wedding Venues on Lake Atitlan Guatemala // Over the years, while photographing weddings on Lake Atitlan, we’ve talked to many of our clients about why they choose to get married here. Usually the phrases “favorite place in the world” or “world’s most beautiful lake” eventually come up during these conversations. There are so many reasons to get married in Guatemala, and this lake stands alone as a reason itself. It’s gorgeous scenery and stunning backdrops create some incredible wedding photos and amazing experiences for couples and their guests. So we wanted to create a list of venues to make the process easier for our clients planning a destination wedding on Lake Atitlan. W

Wedding Venues on Lake Atitlan Guatemala

Below is a list of recommended venues on Lake Atitlan. If you want more information on how to plan a wedding in Guatemala, make sure you check the rest of our articles we have written with advice for weddings in Guatemala. A quick disclaimer, we have not photographed weddings at every location on this list. Those venues where we have NOT photographed a wedding will be marked with an asterisk.*  If you want examples of weddings from a particular venue, it’s best to get in touch with them directly. This is just a guide for folks looking for more information on where to get married on Lake Atitlan. We are not responsible for anyone’s experience or interaction with any of these locations or their employees.

If you are looking for information for getting married in Antigua, Guatemala, you can find a list of the best wedding venues in Antigua here.

***Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find a list of wedding vendors on Lake Atitlan***

The 15 Best Wedding Venues on Lake Atitlan Guatemala ~ HOTELS

Hotel Atitlan (Panajachel)

Event Capacity : 500  Sleep Capacity : 120
(Click here to see a wedding we photographed at Hotel Atitlan)

Hotel Atitlan is one of the most sought-after locations on the lake, because of it’s size and comfortable accommodation for hosting weddings. At certain points of the year, there can be 2 or 3 weddings happening on the same day at Hotel Atitlan, so needless to say, they know what they’re doing. Weddings usually take place in a lake-front grassy area, with terraced seating. . For photos, the sprawling botanical gardens offer a wide-range of backdrops for some amazing snapshots, making this hotel one of the best wedding venues on Lake Atitlan Guatemala.

With onsite catering and decorators, a wedding at Hotel Atitlan can be organized by their in-house wedding staff. They are also located in their own bay (known as the Riviera Atitlan.) That means that your wedding can last until the wee hours of the night if you want it to . Hotel Atitlan also boasts one of the best views on the lake, since the hotel faces the direction of Atitlan’s incredible sunsets. Be warned that the wedding staff at Hotel Atitlan are known for taking their time answering emails, but if you decide to get married there they do an amazing job.

Casa Palopo (Santa Catarina)*

Event Capacity : 200  Sleep Capacity : 18

Casa Palopo has been famed as an incredible boutique hotel in Santa Catarina Palopo. This hotel is famous for its infinity pool overlooking the lake’s three volcanoes. Hundreds of couples have gotten engaged in this cozy hotel, because of its amazing views and private location. Located just a few minutes drive from Panajachel, Casa Palopó grants easy access to guests coming from outside the lake basin.

With an incredible open deck, Casa Palopó can host up to 200 wedding guests. Overflow guests can stay in nearby hotels in Panajachel or rentals in Santa Catarina. There is also an incredible, naturally-lit restaurant that is able to serve a buffet-style menú to a big group. Sit-down dinners are available for weddings with 30 or fewer guests. For an intimate ceremony or a larger celebration, Casa Palopó is a gorgeous option for a wedding on Lake Atitlan.

Casa del Mundo (Jaibalito)

Event Capacity : 50   Sleep Capacity : 50
(Click here to see a wedding we photographed at Casa del Mundo)

Built into the sturdy edge of a cliff-side, Casa del Mundo has become a favorite for brides and grooms from abroad. The incredible stonework and patios offer a wide-variety of options for ceremony locations, including a deck at lake level. The hotel is constructed into the rock on a cliffside so nearly all vantage points have lakeviews. That includes the view from the jacuzzi 😉 This also means, however, that there is definitely some stair-climbing involved while staying at Casa del Mundo, so keep that in mind for any older guests or guests in wheelchairs.

Casa del Mundo also offers their own on-site catering, which makes the planning process that much easier for brides and grooms.  They also have kayaks and nearby hikes so for a multi-day wedding, this would be a great option. Their local staff can also help with decoration and logistics to make sure that your big day unfolds perfectly.

Jardines del Lago (Panajachel)

Event Capacity : 400    Sleep Capacity : 102
(Click here to see a wedding we photographed at Jardines del Lago)

Located on the lakefront just in front of Panajachel, Jardines del Lago is one of the easiest-accessed venues on Lake Atitlan. They offer planners to help you organize and bring all of your wedding vendors right to the shore of Lake Atitlan. They provide enclosed tents or open-air reception locations in one of their gorgeous gardens, but one of their signature locales for ceremonies is the dock that literally floats on the water, ensuring incredible views for more intimate ceremonies. The dock can also serve as a pick-up spot for couples who wish to host their cocktail hours on one of two-leveled boats that carry you and your guests on an tour of Lake Atitlan at sunset. Wedding Venues on Lake Atitlan Guatemala.

Jardines del Lago also has its own kitchen and on-site catering, so bringing outside food isn’t necessary. The rooms are also right next to where the receptions take place, so guests won’t need to drive or take extra transport to arrive to bed after a long night of dancing.

Laguna Lodge (Santa Cruz)

Event Capacity : 50    Sleep Capacity : 18
(Click here to see a wedding we photographed at Laguna Lodge)

Famed for being on of the most ecological hotels in the world, Laguna Lodge offers a truly “off-the-grid” experience. This doesn’t mean, however, that luxury and comfort have been thrown out the window. This boutique hotel sits at the edge of the water, sturdily built with all the comforts of a five-star hotel.

They have a beautiful, wooden dock right on the water, perfect for intimate ceremonies with incredible views of the volcanoes. Their solar-heated hot tub and all-vegetarian restaurant means that you’ll be minimizing your carbon footprint during your stay.  The property also includes a nature reserve behind the hotel, with incredible look-outs and hikes within minutes.

With a restaurant and fully-stocked bar as part of the hotel, there is no need for outside catering. All the while your guests will enjoy beautiful stone-built rooms with king size beds, all with lake views and gorgeous décor. Laguna Lodge is the perfect place for nature lovers and weddings at this eco-haven are truly one-of-a-kind.

Hotel Eco Bambu(Santiago)*

Event Capacity : 250    Sleep Capacity : 30

@Photo by Hotel Bambú

Sitting underneath the watchful eyes of both Volcan Toliman and San Pedro, right on the water is Hotel Eco Bambu. Bambu is an ecological oasis near Santiago, Atitlan, one of the most culturally rich villages around Lake Atitlan. Bambu’s owner has given his personal touch to the hotel’s beautiful, expansive gardens, which can surround your wedding near the water’s edge.

The buildings at Hotel Bambu also have a rustic, local feel. The architecture and design elements we have used a traditional Tz’utujil village design. The restaurant can serve a wide-range of homemade dishes in a comfortable enclosed restaurant, equipped to cook for all of your guests. The staff at Bambu can help you personalize an event to create an unforgettable wedding celebration.

La Fortuna (Santa Cruz)

Event Capacity : 24    Sleep Capacity : 10-14

Tucked away in its own private valley, La Fortuna is the perfect quiet getaway for small weddings. The hotel is right on the water and has it’s rooms are hidden in the greenery behind the main reception area. There are three bungalow suites and two petite bungalows, all made of natural materials. All of these bungalows offer the luxury of hot showers and incredibly comfortable beds. The restaurant serves all sorts of international cuisine, which is prepared in their industrial-sized kitchen. The kitchen can also be rented by outside caterers.

Everything is powered by the sun and the seclusion of the location ensures a vacation experience. La Fortuna has also been named one the best honeymoon hotels in the world, so you can start enjoying your honeymoon immediately after your big day.

La Casa Zapote (San Marcos)

Event Capacity : 75  Sleep Capacity : 10 (5 couples)
(Click here to see a wedding we photographed at Casa Zapote)

La Casa Zapote is one of the newer additions to the wedding options on the lake. It’s a 15-minute hike up from central San Marcos. After the walk through forests and coffee fields, your guests will find themselves in the middle of nature. The structures feature a variety of local building techniques, including adobe, super adobe and natural wood and stone construction. With 5 different rooms, you will have options for your guests that wish to stay the night. Other guests can find more options back in the town of San Marcos.

As for food, you know you will be well-taken care of. La Casa Zapote restaurant includes three kitchens, two grills and a full bar, as well as a stage for live music and various lounging areas throughout the property. The venue has an on-site farm to table restaurant and many of the ingredients come from their own gardens. The owners also collaborate with talented international chefs to create unique, foodie experiences for brides and grooms that prioritize the culinary aspect of their event.

Isla Verde (Santa Cruz) ~This venue has limited availability for certain times of the year~

Event Capacity : 50  Sleep Capacity : 32 
(Click here to see a wedding we photographed at Isla Verde)

This chic little hotel is located in sleepy Santa Cruz, which is inaccessible by road. It’s rustic décor and design make a perfect location for couples searching for something simple but beautiful. There are a few different spaces at Isla Verde where wedding ceremonies can take place. One is an enclosed yoga studio and another is a green-roofed bamboo space, pictured above. However, the favorite is the open-air deck, that floats 3 meters above the water’s edge.

Your guests can sleep in one of the cozy cabins built up the mountainside, all with incredible sunrise views. There are also lower suites for guests not willing or able to make the climb. Although Isla Verde allows outside catering, the hotel is equipped with a full kitchen and staff that serve homemade, delicious “slow food,” which has earned them fame amongst locals living on the lake. Our particular favorites are their nachos and open-faced, tomato onion grilled cheese sandwich 🙂

Hotel Toliman(San Lucas)*

Event Capacity : 150    Sleep Capacity : 50-60

On the grounds of a former coffee finca, in less-visited San Lucas, sits Hotel Tolimán. The magnificent views and extensive lawns and gardens are perfect for an outdoor ceremony.  There is also a breezy, elegant and spacious restaurant and deck which are perfect for banquets and dancing. If you let this family run hotel know what your dream wedding looks like, they can adapt their spaces to your ideals, convenience and budget. 

Hotel Toliman prepares food with the highest standards of quality and freshness, and much of the produce comes from their sustainable organic garden right on site.  You will be dazzled by the flavors and presentation. The owners and staff love sharing their secluded paradise with wedding parties and volcanic views are in abundance, since San Lucas sits right in the foothills of Volcan Toliman and Atitlan. 

The Best Wedding Venues on Lake Atitlan Guatemala ~ RENTALS~

Casa Valdres (Santa Cruz)

Event Capacity : 50   Sleep Capacity : 10
(click here to see a wedding that took place at Casa Valdres and Villa Eggedal)

This rental is a three-story, Norwegian built home with stunning terraces and views from every room. Surrounded by lush gardens, this venue is located in quiet Santa Cruz, about 10 minutes from the public dock.  Equipped with a large kitchen and swimming pool, this rental is perfect for smaller weddings. It’s also a very comfortable rental for kids and multiple families.

This locale, combined with Villa Eggedal below, is a great option for a full day event. The two houses can be rented through the same staff, so you can have multiple options on ceremony locations, getting ready locations, etc.

Villa Eggedal (Santa Cruz)

Event Capacity : 50   Sleep Capacity : 26
(click here to see a wedding that took place at Casa Valdres and Villa Eggedal)

Located just above Casa Valdres is Villa Eggedal, with huge sprawling gardens and loads of quiet, green areas perfect for hosting an intimate ceremony. The villa contains various rooms and houses. Up to 26 of your guests can sleep on the grounds, which includes a pool and hangout area. Guests that overflow the rental have 3 other large houses within a few minutes’ walk.

Villa Eggedal would be great for a week-long celebration, with many activities on the lake within walking distance. You can treat yourself and your guests to a mini-vacation!

Casa Pamakanya (Jaibalito)

Event Capacity : 25      Sleep Capacity : 13
(Click here to see an elopement we shot at Casa Pamakanya)

This unique house is found hidden away in the hills next to Jaibalito, which is only accessible by boat. The houses contain various different structures and gardens that are great for hosting intimate weddings. We recommend this location for elopements in Guatemala, for instance. This terraced home has garden and volcanic views from plenty of patios and deck areas. At Pamakanya you can also enjoy your own private dock for swimming and plenty of hammocks to relax in after you say “I do.”

While renting this gorgeous house, you can also hire a private, local cook from Jaibalito. The cook can make breakfast, lunch and dinner for up to 25 people. The owners also have connections for serving staff from the local village. But if you’re looking for something specific, the venue allows for outside caterers.

Casa de Larry (Santa Cruz)

Event Capacity : 70      Sleep Capacity : 12

La Casa de Larry is a colorful rental home right on the water in Santa Cruz. This place is perfect for brides and grooms looking for a fun and simple option for their venue. What used to be a restaurant on the water has since been converted into a lakeside bar, complete with on-tap beer and a jacuzzi right next to the water.

The palapa deck is a great location right on the water for a small ceremony. A bar just below the palapa deck is essentially an open-air bar that would function perfectly for a reception. Outside caterers here are a must, although depending on the time of year the house-staff can provide beverages.

La Kzona Atitlan (Santa Cruz)

Event Capacity : 100      Sleep Capacity : 14

Photos courtesy of Scarlett B Photography

La Kzona (pronounced ca-SOHN-ah) is an eco-lodge outside of Santiago Atitlan with waterfront access. There are two houses on the property, a larger A-frame house and a small stone cabin right on the water’s shore. The small cabin would be a perfect locale for getting ready pictures. The property also has a large green garden space perfect for events of 100 or less.

The rental also includes a small pool and a lakeside fire pit, which works great for events that go later into the night. Delicious food can be provided by Kzona or brought from outside of the venue.

Leave us a comment!

Feel free to write a comment below or contact us if you have any specific questions or need answers regarding any of these wedding venues on Lake Atitlan!

Wedding Vendors on Lake Atitlan

Check out our following list of trusted wedding vendors on Lake Atitlan :