Panajachel City Guide

Local Mayan dishes and international options like pizza and Indian food. Vegetarian and vegan choices exist, mainly in tourist spots. Some late-night options.

Nightlife is active on weekends, with bars and clubs offering live music and lake views.

A strong coffee scene with specialty cafes like Crossroads Café and Café Loco that roasts its own beans.

Tipping around 10% is common in tourist places. Taxi or tuk-tuk tips are small and optional.

Buy SIM cards at Tigo or Claro stores in town. Tigo has good coverage. You’ll need ID to register. eSIMs are also available from various providers.

Generally clean for a tourist town, but not spotless everywhere.

Limited 24/7 services. Nightlife picks up on weekends; some late-night food and shops available.

Fresh produce is available at the local market; supermarkets offer basic goods. Markets open early and close by late afternoon; some close on Sundays.

Cards are accepted in bigger hotels and restaurants, but markets and small shops usually want cash. Bring quetzales for daily expenses.

ATMs are easy to find at banks like Banco Industrial and Banrural. Expect fees for international cards.

Panajachel has local schools, including an international one. Details on admissions and languages are limited.

A steady remote worker presence with some nomad-friendly cafes. Organized meetups are rare.

Good access to green spaces such as Atitlan Nature Reserve and riverside areas.

Running routes include lakeside paths and mountain roads. Some areas require caution.

No specific gyms noted, but general fitness facilities might exist.

No info on tennis courts.

No info on padel courts.

Yoga classes offered at places like Selina Beach Bar; other options are limited.

No clear info on martial arts facilities or classes.

No skiing available.

Kayaking and paddleboarding on the lake are popular and equipment is rental friendly.

No surfing; Panajachel is on a lake.

Freshwater diving is possible at nearby dive centers like ATI Divers in Santa Cruz La Laguna.

Basic clinics available, but serious care may require travel to bigger cities. Pharmacies stock common medicines. English-speaking staff are not guaranteed.

Tap water isn't safe to drink. Use bottled water or filters.

Family-friendly with kid-welcoming cafes and local attractions like the Atitlan Nature Reserve. Playgrounds info is limited.

Limited information on LGBTQ+ friendliness and resources.

Limited info on pet services and accommodations.