Hiking the Lower Mayan Trail from Santa Cruz to San Marcos

Hiking the Lower Mayan Trail from Santa Cruz to San Marcos

The Lower Mayan Trail Hike is probably my favourite walk around Lake Atitlan. Stretching from Santa Cruz La Laguna to San Marcos La Laguna, it provides a genuine taste of the region’s natural beauty. This winding footpath traverses local villages and arid forests whilst delivering some of the best views available from the northern shore of Lake Atitlan. What’s even better is that despite its scenic views, the route remains less frequented by mainstream tourism, meaning that you can expect a more peaceful, undisturbed and authentic journey through the Guatemalan countryside!

This guide will cover everything you need to know about hiking the Lower Mayan Trail. Including how to get there; the hiking route; and tips for the hike. As always, I’ll give my opinions on whether you need a guide for the Lower Mayan Trail, along with other FAQs to help maximise your experience and minimise your costs!

About Lake Atitlan

Before diving headfirst into the details of the Lower Mayan Trail, a bit about its home – Lake Atitlan.

Nestled within the Guatemalan highlands, Lake Atitlan stands as both a geological marvel and a cultural focal point, making it one of the most popular stops for anyone visiting Guatemala! Formed in the caldera of a huge volcanic crater, the lake’s deep blue waters are surrounded by towering volcanic peaks and lush hillsides (perfect for hiking 😉). Beyond its striking natural beauty, Lake Atitlan is central to indigenous Mayan cultures, with numerous villages dotting its shores, each boasting unique traditions and customs. The lake itself is a hub of daily life, where traditional wooden boats (known as “lanchas”) ferry locals and tourists between lakeside communities.

I found that the Lower Mayan Trail encapsulated many of the different aspects of Lake Atitlan, as you wander through indigenous towns and take in its postcard-worthy views.

About The Lower Mayan Trail

Walk type: One-way
Distance: 9km
Maximum Elevation: 1656m (5433 feet)
Minimum Elevation: 1542m (5059 feet)
Walk time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Views across Lake Atitlan
Park Entrance Fee: N/A

FAQs

Can you hike the Lower Mayan Trail independently or do you need a guide?

You can easily hike the Lower Mayan Trail without a guide. The route is simple to navigate and has reference points throughout.

In terms of safety, there are stories of robberies and wild dogs on the Lower Mayan Trail, much like the rest of Lake Atitlan. Whilst I personally didn’t feel unsafe or experience any sign of these, hiring a guide will ensure safety and peace of mind. If you are uncertain, I recommend getting a guide or hiking with others.

I’ve heard positive reviews about LuiTuy Tours for the Lower Mayan Trail and Indian Nose Hike. Alternatively, I recommend checking with your accommodation once you arrive in Lake Atitlan.

Which direction to hike the Lower Mayan Trail?

Whilst you can hike the Lower Mayan Trail in both directions, I recommend starting in Santa Cruz La Laguna and hiking towards San Marcos.

Having the trailhead here provides better views as you walk facing San Pedro Volcano. Plus it means you will finish in San Marcos La Laguna which is a great place to eat. I recommend La Sala del Lago for food – they do some mean tacos! 🌮

What to pack for the Lower Mayan Trail

For the Lower Mayan Trail, you should wear your usual, comfortable hiking clothes. This includes shorts (or hiking trousers if preferred), a sweat-wicking top, walking socks, and hiking shoes. Trainers are fine if you don’t have hiking boots.

Look at the weather forecast in advance and dress accordingly. If it’s sunny, sunglasses and a hat are highly recommended. If it’s cooler, overcast, or even rainy, then wear something to protect you from the elements.

In addition to the clothes you are wearing, you should also bring:

• Water: Always stay hydrated during your hike.
• Snacks: Gotta keep your energy levels up! Plus, who doesn’t like a scenic snack?
• Swimming trunks (optional): Great for swimming in San Marcos or Santa Cruz.
• Sun cream: The hike is exposed with minimal protection from the sun.
• Wallet: If you want to buy anything along the trail, in San Marcos, or get a boat ride back, you will need cash. Don’t carry all your money on you if you’re concerned about bandits.
• Camera (optional): Let’s be honest, with all these incredible views, you will probably want to take a few snaps along the way.

When to hike the Lower Mayan Trail

The best time of year to hike the Lower Mayan Trail is during the dry season (November-May).

The best time of day to hike the trail is early in the morning before it gets too hot. This should mean you finish the hike in time for lunch in San Marcos!

Getting to the Lower Mayan Trail

Since you can hike the Lower Mayan Trail in either direction, your starting point will either be in Santa Cruz La Laguna or in San Marcos La Laguna.

Ideally, you will be staying in either of these small towns, making it a short walk to the starting point. I stayed at La Iguana Perdida Hostel which is next door to Santa Cruz’s dock.

If not, you will need to take a local boat to either of these towns and you can begin the walk from either dock. Most boat journeys take less than 30 minutes.

What to Expect Hiking the Lower Mayan Trail

As I’ve already mentioned, the Lower Mayan Trail is one of the best hikes around Lake Atitlan. And that’s not just because it has less elevation than most of the others!

The route of this coastal walk follows the natural undulations of the land. Starting at the same level as the lake, you make your way up into the foothills surrounding Lake Atitlan to enjoy the phenomenal views. The terrain is easy underfoot, switching between dusty trails and paved roads.

Whilst the majority of the hike is spent with amazing views over Lake Atitlan, there’s a mix of exposed (but not scary) sections and more sheltered parts making the walk diverse and exciting. You could be walking through local villages one moment and then reach a clearing with spectacular views of volcanoes the next!

Santa Cruz to Jaibalito

For the purpose of this route, I will start from the dock in Santa Cruz La Laguna.

The easiest way to get to the beginning of the trail is to follow the footpath along the edge of the lake. Keep the lake on your left as you head west in the direction of San Marcos. You will pass Standup Paddle Lake Atitlan, Free Cerveza Hostel and Los Elementos Kayak Center.

Shortly after the kayak center, and before the wooden bridge, make a right turn directly inland. You will follow a path uphill with a large wall to your left. Cross over the small concrete bridge which marks the official start of the trail.

Follow the steps up and down as the path meanders between various complexes. At this point you may be questioning where the views are, but don’t worry, it gets better! The path for this short section of the walk towards Jaibalito is mostly covered on both sides by either fences, walls or plantation. There’s a lot of greenery and the occasional glimpse over Lake Atitlan as you reach the outskirts of Jaibalito.

Jaibalito is a small, sleepy town which you can explore. Otherwise, if you don’t take any turns, you will come out the other side and onto the same hiking path.

Jaibalito to Tzununa

After passing through Jaibalito you will realise how much altitude you have climbed.

Cross over the Jaibailito to Tzununa Footbridge as the route continues towards Tzununa via a dirt path.

The next couple of kilometers follow the shape of the hillside as you climb over various ridges overlooking the lake and volcanoes on the opposing shore.

As you reach the Lomas de Tzununa Retreat Centre, the path changes to a cobblestone road leading down to Tzununa which you will be able to see in the distance.

Tzununa is another quiet lakeside town, though certainly larger than Jaibalito. On your way in, you will pass through farmland and gardens giving you an insight into local life.

Once again, you can either stay on the same path leading straight through Tzununa, or you can detour to explore! The main town is set back slightly away from the lake and the Lower Mayan Trail walking route. If you need a drink or snack, there are a couple of small stores here.

As you exit Tzununa, turn left back towards the lake. You should pass the Centro de Salud Y Nutricion Tzununa and what looks like a football field. Follow the dirt track which eventually transitions back into a road (RD SOL6) for the final stretch.

Tzununa to San Marcos La Laguna

The last section of the hike is predominantly road-based. Though, when I say road, it doesn’t feel like one…

Firstly there aren’t many vehicles! They’re also in the process of re-doing it, so some sections are smooth tarmac, while other sections are a bit dusty!

The road exiting Tzununa is a steep one and offers the last panoramic views before the lakeside trail disappears and moves further inland. From then, the views are intermittent as you reach clearings between plants and the wall.

The main road towards San Marcos takes less than 30 minutes to walk.

Once you reach San Marcos you can explore the town and grab some food. We stopped at La Sala Del Lago which is relatively new and a great pit stop before exploring San Marcos La Laguna in the afternoon. Though there are also other spots nearer the centre of the town.

NOTE: You can walk the Lower Mayan Trail back to Santa Cruz, however, the more popular option is to take a boat back.

Navigation

The route for the Lower Mayan Trail follows the coast of Lake Atitlan from Santa Cruz La Laguna to San Marcos La Laguna. It’s a relatively easy path to follow once you’re on the trail.

Use the route map of the Lower Mayan Trail below to ensure you don’t get lost.

Tips for Hiking the Lower Mayan Trail

• Go for a swim to cool off: The waters around San Marcos and Santa Cruz are some of the cleanest in Lake Atitlan, so it’s safe to swim Check out the diving platform in San Marcos.
• Carry a stick if you are hiking alone: There are dogs on the trail, and while most are friendly and accompany you along the trail, it’s good to be prepared with something to keep them at bay.
• Pack light: You don’t need much for this hike, make the most of it by packing only the essentials.
• Be respectful: This should go without saying, but be considerate of the local culture and respect the environment that you’re walking through! That means, don’t be noisy, don’t litter and don’t cause any other disturbances on the trail.
• Boat prices: At the time of writing, a boat from Santa Cruz to San Marcos (or vice versa) costs Q20.

What to do in the area

Lake Atitlan isn’t short of activities. Here are a few of the best:

• Paragliding in Panajachel
• Paddleboarding in Santa Cruz or San Marcos
• Explore the markets in Panajachel
• Practice yoga in the hippie town of San Marcos
• Learn Mayan weaving in San Juan
• Rent a kayak in San Pedro
• Join a sunset cruise over the lake (bring booze if you want!)

If you are looking for more hikes in the area, some of the most popular are:

• Indian Nose Hike (sunrise)
• Toliman Volcano
• Atitlan Volcano
• San Pedro Volcano

Where to stay in Lake Atitlan

Around Lake Atitlan, you are spoilt for choice with hostels, hotels, Airbnbs, resorts, and private accommodation to stay at.

For this hike, your best bet would be to stay in Santa Cruz La Laguna. If you are happy to do the hike in the other direction, you could also stay in San Marcos La Laguna.

NOTE: The are lots of hostels around Lake Atitlan that aren’t listed on Hostelworld, so make sure to check out other sites like Booking.com.

Santa Cruz or San Marcos:

• La Iguana Perdida in Santa Cruz (best hostel)
• Free Cerveza in Santa Cruz (best for partying)
• Atitlan Sunset Lodge in Santa Cruz (best private accommodation)

Elsewhere in Lake Atitlan:

• Selina in Panajachel (best hostel for digital nomads)
• Eagle’s Nest Atitlan (best for yoga)
• Laguna Lodge or La Fortuna (best luxury resorts)

Before you go

Thank you for reading my travel guide on hiking the Lower Mayan Trail in Lake Atitlan. If guides, itineraries, and travel content like this interest you, head over to my blog page to find out more.

If you are new to Matt’s Next Steps, check out the About Me page to find out a bit more about who I am, my travel adventures, and why I wanted to become a travel writer.

Please comment below and let me know your thoughts and experiences, or if there is anything else you want information on.

Happy hiking!