Forest trails and swaying bridges over a ravine, a waterfall and a butterfly dome, with coatis on the path and a beach at the end.
The Reserva Natural Atitlán is a private reserve on an old coffee estate about 15 minutes west of Panajachel, where the hills meet the lakeshore.
A loop trail climbs through forest and crosses a ravine on a series of hanging bridges, passing a waterfall on the way. Near the entrance, a netted butterfly dome is full of native species.
White-nosed coatis wander the paths, and spider monkeys live in the trees. Early morning is good for easy birding, with hummingbirds and motmots around the gardens.
The trail ends at a lakeside beach for a rest. Zip-lines over the forest are available at extra cost.
A morning loop.
Start in the butterfly dome while the insects are warming up.
Climb through the forest, watching for coatis and listening for monkeys.
Cross the hanging bridges, with the waterfall below.
Pause at the viewpoints over the lake and volcanoes.
Finish at the lakeside beach before heading back to town.
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A short tuk-tuk ride from Panajachel, or a pleasant walk along the road west of town.
Entry is about Q80; zip-lines are booked and paid separately at the reserve.
The bridges sway; they're safe, but not for anyone with a strong fear of heights.
Lake Atitlán practical notes →Photographs from Wikimedia Commons and Pexels under their licences.
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