Audio Guide of the Murals of San Juan La Laguna

The murals are outdoors on the village streets, so they are accessible all day, every day of the year, although it is recommended to visit between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for better lighting. To get there, you can take a boat from Panajachel to San Juan La Laguna, which takes about 20–30 minutes; the dock is near the center where the murals are located. More details on the official Guatemala tourism website.

Visiting the murals is completely free, since they are public art on the village streets. You will only pay for transportation, such as the boat from other towns around Lake Atitlán, which costs around 10–20 quetzales per trip. If you want a local guide, you can hire one for about 50 quetzales per hour.

A full visit takes between 1 and 2 hours, depending on whether you walk through all the main streets where the murals are located. This includes time for photos and admiring the details, but you can extend your visit if you combine it with a local art workshop. It is ideal for a relaxed morning or afternoon.

These murals were created by local Tz'utujil artists in the 1990s as a way to preserve and promote Maya culture, depicting myths, nature, and daily life in the village. They are a symbol of community identity and have attracted sustainable tourism to the area. For more about their meaning, see resources on the Atitlán portal.

The best time is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is sunny and the views of Lake Atitlán are clear; avoid the rainy season from May to October. Early morning (8:00–10:00 a.m.) has fewer tourists and ideal natural light for photos. If you travel on a weekend, arrive early to avoid local crowds.

Access is moderately accessible, as the murals are on cobblestone streets and some slopes, which can be challenging for wheelchairs; assistance or flatter routes in the village center are recommended. Contact the local tourism office at +502 7764-1234 for adapted guides. For more information about accessibility in Guatemala, visit Guatemala Travel.

Nearby you will find the Balam Kitxe Museum, just a 5-minute walk away, which explores Tz'utujil culture, as well as weaving workshops and organic coffee in the village. You can also take a short boat trip to San Pedro La Laguna for markets and volcano views. Lake Atitlán also offers kayaking and hiking in the surrounding area.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven streets, sunscreen, and bring water, since the Atitlán sun is intense; consider joining a local guided tour for in-depth explanations (available at the dock). Respect the community by not touching the murals and support it by buying handicrafts. If you need transportation, book boats in advance at Lanchas Atitlán.