San Pedro La Laguna, on the western shore of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, has become a hub for backpackers, Spanish language students and digital nomads over the last few years.
Unlike some other towns around Lake Atitlán, San Pedro maintains a perfect balance between tourist amenities and local life. You can find everything from basic backpacker hostels to boutique hotels with infinity pools, and prices tend to be lower than in nearby San Marcos or Panajachel.
Note: San Pedro sits on a steep hillside crawling up from the lake, meaning your choice of accommodation can dramatically affect both your view and daily hike home!
When I visited Lake Atitlán in 2024, I spent a few nights in a hostel/hotel in San Pedro. Well, we stayed in the hostel part, but they also had some really nice looking hotel rooms and a great free breakfast on the terrace with an amazing view! (This was in Hotel Amigos, which I’ll talk more about below.)
🇬🇹 Read more: A Travel Guide to San Pedro La Laguna
Contents
- Where to Stay in San Pedro La Laguna, Lake Atitlán
- Hostels in San Pedro La Laguna
- Regular Hotels in San Pedro La Laguna
- Upscale Hotels in San Pedro La Laguna
- Spanish School Accommodation
- How Long to Stay in San Pedro
- A Note About Location
- San Pedro La Laguna Accommodation FAQs
- Conclusion
Hostels in San Pedro La Laguna
Best for: Budget Travellers & Social Vibes
The hostel scene in San Pedro is thriving, with options ranging from basic backpacker dorms to more upscale “poshtels” with lake views. Most hostels are concentrated around the dock area and the main tourist street, making it easy to meet other travellers and join in the town’s social scene.
One thing I really loved about the hostels in San Pedro was how social they were. Many have their own bars or organise events like family dinners and game nights. Even if you’re not staying in a particular hostel, you’re often welcome to join their activities – just be prepared to pay a small fee for things like pool access or yoga classes.
Best Hostels in San Pedro
- Mr Mullet’s Hostel – Known for its rooftop bar and party atmosphere
- Hotel Amigos – This is where we stayed, with clean rooms, an amazing view and great breakfast!
- Fe Hostel – Popular with long-term stays and digital nomads
Regular Hotels in San Pedro La Laguna
Best for: Mid-Range Comfort
For those seeking a bit more privacy and comfort without breaking the bank, San Pedro offers plenty of mid-range hotels. These typically provide private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, and some include breakfast, too. You’ll find most of these scattered throughout the lower part of town, within easy walking distance of restaurants and cafes.
They’re generally clean and comfortable, with decent WiFi and hot water (which isn’t always a given in budget accommodation!). Many also have shared kitchen facilities, a bit like in a hostel, which can help keep costs down if you’re staying longer.
Best Regular Hotels in San Pedro
- Hotel Amigos – This is where we stayed (although we stayed in the hostel part) with clean rooms, an amazing view and great breakfast!
- Hotel Peneleu – Clean, comfortable rooms with good WiFi
- Hotel Playa Linda – Right on the lake with a private dock
Upscale Hotels in San Pedro La Laguna
Best for: Luxury & Views
While San Pedro isn’t known for ultra-luxury accommodation like you might find in some of the other towns around Lake Atitlán, there are a few more upscale options offering superior amenities. These places tend to be located either right on the lakefront or higher up the hillside, where they can take advantage of panoramic views across Lake Atitlán.
What sets these hotels apart isn’t just the quality of the rooms – it’s the extra touches. Think infinity pools, high-end restaurants, and staff who can arrange everything from airport transfers to private boat tours.
Best Upscale Hotels in San Pedro
- Hotel Mikaso – Rooftop restaurant with incredible views
- Sababa Resort & Hotel – Luxury rooms and excellent service
- Hotel Casa Alicia – Traditional charm with modern amenities
Spanish School Accommodation
Best for: Language Students & Cultural Immersion
Many of San Pedro’s Spanish schools offer their own accommodation, either on-site or with local families. This is often the most economical option if you’re planning to study Spanish, and it provides an immersive experience living either with a Guatemalan family, or other Spanish learners who may not speak your native language. The quality varies significantly between schools and homestays, but most provide two or three meals a day and a private room.
Just be prepared for early mornings – Guatemalan families tend to start their day at sunrise!
Best Spanish Schools with Accommodation
- San Pedro Spanish School – Most established school with well-vetted homestays
- Orbita Spanish School – Modern facilities and comfortable homestay options
- Corazon Maya Spanish School – Known for excellent teaching and good accommodation
🇬🇹 Read more: Things to Do in San Pedro La Laguna
How Long to Stay in San Pedro
The amount of time you should spend in San Pedro really depends on your goals. If you’re just passing through to see Lake Atitlán, 3-4 days is enough to get a feel for the town and do some activities on the lake. However, if you’re planning to study Spanish or work remotely, I’d recommend staying at least a few weeks.
Many travellers end up extending their stay in San Pedro. There’s something about the combination of the laid-back atmosphere, stunning views, and friendly community that makes it hard to leave. If you’re planning to study Spanish, I’d recommend booking at least a week to start with, giving yourself time to settle into the rhythm of lake life and decide if you want to stay longer.
A Note About Location
Regardless of which type of accommodation you choose, pay attention to its location on the hill. San Pedro is built on a pretty steep incline, and while the walk up can be beautiful during the day, it can feel a bit sketchy at night, especially in the rainy season when the cobblestone streets get slippery.
When Ellie and I were staying in San Pedro, we had a really sketchy walk home one night. When we bumped into some other (larger, male) travellers, we asked them to walk with us back to the hostel because we felt so unsafe.
If you’re planning to study Spanish or need to be in town regularly, consider staying in the lower part of town. If you’re more interested in peace and quiet (and don’t mind the exercise), the upper parts of town offer better views and a more local experience.
San Pedro La Laguna Accommodation FAQs
Is San Pedro La Laguna safe for solo travellers?
San Pedro La Laguna is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution, especially at night. The steep streets can be challenging and somewhat unsafe after dark, particularly during the rainy season. If possible, walk with others at night or arrange transport to accommodation located higher up the hillside.
What’s the best area to stay in San Pedro La Laguna?
The lower part of town near the dock area is most convenient for accessing restaurants, cafes, and tourist amenities. However, accommodation higher up the hill often offers better views and a more authentic experience. Consider your priorities and mobility needs when choosing your location.
How much does accommodation cost in San Pedro La Laguna?
Accommodation prices in San Pedro are generally lower than in other Lake Atitlán towns. Hostel dorms start from around $10 per night, mid-range hotels range from $25-50, and luxury options typically cost $75-150 per night. Spanish school homestays often include meals and usually cost $10-20 per night.
What amenities can I expect in San Pedro La Laguna hotels?
Amenities vary widely between properties. Basic hostels offer shared facilities, whilst mid-range hotels typically provide private bathrooms and WiFi. Luxury properties often feature amenities like infinity pools and restaurants. Note that hot water isn’t guaranteed in budget accommodation.
How far in advance should I book accommodation in San Pedro?
For peak season (December-February and June-August), book at least a month in advance, especially for higher-end hotels. During shoulder season, booking a week ahead is usually sufficient. For Spanish school homestays, arrange accommodation when you book your courses.
Conclusion
San Pedro La Laguna offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. From sociable hostels perfect for backpackers to comfortable hotels ideal for digital nomads, and from immersive Spanish school homestays to luxurious lakeside retreats, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay. The key is considering your priorities – whether that’s location, amenities, or social atmosphere – and being mindful of the town’s hilly terrain when choosing your accommodation.