We recommend that if you come to Lake Atitlan, you choose a town to stay at and take day trips from there to see the surrounding towns. Staying in Pana, although easy, keeps you from enjoying all the benefits this lake really has to offer. We strongly suggest that you stay at one of the smaller, quainter towns around the Lake. Our favorite options have been listed here, providing a cottage-life feel and the ultimate in relaxation. Remember that some of these places are accessible only by boat, so supplies are often limited at these places.

If you do feel the need to stay in Pana, a couple of decent options include:

• Hotel Primavera (7762 2052) with 10 small but very clean rooms, Q240 - 300

• Mueller's Guesthouse (7762-2442; Calle Rancho Grande 1-82 ) in a quieter part of town, 3 quaint rooms, US$45

• Hotel Dos Mundos (7762 2078; h2mundos@intelnet.net.gt) catering to groups with 22 rooms and an Italian restaurant on-site, great pool area and gardens, US$58 including breakfast and taxes.