Solola Vacation Packages

Sololá (department)

Set around a picturesque lake and in the shadow of tall volcanoes are a series of towns and villages where the ancient customs of Maya descendants flourish.   Experience the traditions and folklore of Guatemala’s indigenous groups in the eye-catching Sololá Department. Pretty villages sit on the shores of the vast Lake Atitlán and against the backdrop of a spectacular volcanic landscape in Sololá. Visit colorful markets, trek to a volcano summit and enjoy tranquil boat rides. Immerse yourself in the cultures of the Kackchiquel, Quiché and Tzutuhil people.

Perched on a hillside overlooking the lake’s northern shores is Sololá, the departmental capital and its largest town. The town bursts to life on Tuesday and Friday when local traders hawk their goods at the Mercado de Sololá. Landmarks, such as the Catedral de Sololá and Torre Centroamericana, are reminders of the colonial era. Enjoy lake views from the Mirador de Lago Atitlán and Mirador San Jorge lookouts.

Volcano scenery, boat trips, Maya craft stores and a vibrant nightlife scene create an inviting ambiance in Panajachel. Spot butterflies, monkeys and raccoons at Atitlán Nature Reserve. In nearby Santa Catarina Palopo and San Antonio Palopo local residents dress in colorful attire that dates back to pre-Hispanic times. Catch a boat to Santiago Atitlán, on Santiago Bay, home to a 16th-century church where services blend Catholic and Maya rituals.

On the western lake shores, San Pedro la Laguna sits between glistening waters and cornfields. Shop for embroidery and woven baskets, relax at a beach or hike with a guide to 9,908-feet (3,020-meter) tall Volcán San Pedro. San Juan de la Laguna is famous for Maya art and Santa Clara la Laguna is a starting point for scuba-diving trips. Browse the busy markets of San Lucas Tolimán, the department’s gateway to the Pacific Coast.

Buses depart regularly for towns in the Sololá department from Antigua and Guatemala City. Boats provide an affordable way to travel around the towns and village on Lake Atitlán. November to February are the busiest months, when there’s little rainfall and clear blue skies. Arrive in mid-August when the Nim-Akij Sololá fair takes over Sololá with dance shows, music and street food.