Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort & Nature Reserve

My husband and I came to Guatemala for our 10 year wedding anniversary because were inspired by the beauty and plant-based forward approach of Laguna Lodge. Our vision was realized + more! We had a very smooth arrival from San Marcos to Laguna Lodge deck by public boat. The staff greeted us so warmly and upgraded our room! Our room (Jaguar) was absolutely gorgeous with plenty of such comfy, cozy seating options both inside and outside to promote rest and relaxation. Our view of the lake was stunning. We spent 3 days at Laguna Lodge and did not want to leave the property! We hiked the nature reserve, kayaked, swam, did our own personal yoga practice on the deck, and enjoyed delicious vegan meals in the gorgeous onsite restaurant. The entire team at Laguna Lodge was so friendly and courteous during our stay - Nicholas and Cruz + all others. Thank you for hosting us!!

IMPORTANT: I would not qualify this hotel as kid friendly. We traveled with a 4, 6, and 8 year old and spent a lot of time trying to avoid accidents. There are no railings, around the property and lake front, our room had one high railing but our 4 year old could have walk right under it. The pool is a straight drop off at least 5 meters to rocks below. The dock is shakey and has no railings either. We had a number of close calls with our 4 year old especially. I would not recommend for kids under 8 and the hotel shouldn’t accept either. As a couple, individual or family with older children I would say the hotel is fantastic! Beautiful accommodations. Beds and rooms very comfortable. We love the food actually! The vegetarian menu is varied and delicious. The views are spectacular, lovely service, fun kayaks to use, easy to catch the boats. Overall a wonderful place. If I hadn’t been so on edge about children falling, it would be a 10/10! If small children doesn’t apply to you, I’d highly recommend.

A great place if you want an exclusive boutique hotel (c.10 rooms or suites) on the banks and with fantastic views of Lake Atitlan. Also an exclusively vegetarian menu. It prides itself on its sustainability credentials of various kinds. You arrive by boat which in itself is a great approach. The service is probably best described as discreet - good but not obvious, and a trip to reception was needed to find a barman. The hotel has a walk in its nature park - but this is very very steep and ranges from 45 mins to a couple of hours of options. We started but with rain threatening (who are we kidding - it was just too steep and hard and rain gave the excuse) retreated after 30 mins. Little explained by the hotel reception at check in - but the book in the room is comprehensive on spa, booking private or using the public boats, and other options and tours. We had a private tour already booked so didn’t use. Bedroom was well presented with great views (but it was pandering to trend to have a toilet that whilst private had no door to the rest of the suite - really!). The hotel also has a number of public rooms and spaces at different levels where you can sit and admire the lake / read. There is a walk along the shore to the town, a decent track, although not for the dark unless you have torches. The next bar was 1km and also at around this point the road starts and Tuk tuks were available to take you up to the town as it appeared a fairly steep road. Not sure what is in the town as we didn’t venture. You are probably somewhat captive to eating in, as boats (cheap by day) get expensive in the evening. That said the menu is not expensive. It is all vegetarian (says on the web but not prominent - but no issue to us) it has a broad range with clearly local produce but simple fare. So in summary good for a couple of nights if one day is to tour the lake. Enjoy the views, soak up the nature. As a final comment, lots of pages on its eco credentials from its build to its operation (which I do endorse in principle) - but as many guests like us come in on long haul flights to Guatemala, and have internal flights, if people are booking on this basis but flying in, you need to stop kidding yourself!

Our family loved our stay at Laguna Lodge. The hotel is intimate and exquisite, with stunning views and complete privacy. The staff are friendly and helpful, and our rooms were comfortable. We enjoyed the nature reserve, although the hike up the slope is challenging. Keep in mind the cuisine is vegetarian, but for two days we were fine with the chef's preparations. We enjoyed booking the hot pool and we really enjoyed the relaxed, private vibes and lovely decor and architecture of this secluded hotel, where a boat is necessary to arrive and depart. Wifi was also solid, as was cellular service. The volcano views were impeccable and truly peaceful and memorable.

Our entire experience at Laguna Lodge Resort was absolutely incredible! The gorgeous natural surroundings of the landscaping was so calming and relaxing. The warm and cozy stone fireplace and jacuzzi were wonderful. We loved the native art, decor, paintings, and bathrobes. The view from our room was truly epic! The service was outstanding from Nicolas. He was so attentive and sweet. Cruz and Leslie were also great! Every meal was so delicious, each dish had the most fresh and flavorful ingredients! Thank you for an unforgettable experience! Katherine and Christopher Hill