Atitlan Nature Reserve
Atitlan Nature Reserve
4.5
8:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Monday
8:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 AM
About
The Atitlan Nature Reserve is both a must for visitors of Lake Atitlan and a force in the environmental cause: Atitlan Azul. It is an extraordinary gate to the magnificent Lake Atitlan and its spectacular volcanoes. Its zip lines, butterfly preserve, trails, hanging bridges and lodgings bring you in close contact with nature. On the zip lines you fly above waterfalls, coffee groves, oak stands and the steep cliffs that guard the lake. At the Butterfly Geodome you enjoy the colors and forms of hundreds of butterflies surrounded by flowers and the sounds of water. Humming birds and the murmur of the river accompany you while you have lunch, coffee or a drink, then you continue to explore the diversity and beauty of this natural wonder. At night, the crickets, owls and the sounds of the night will be your company in our lodging. The Reserve supports the work of scientist and students concerned with biodiversity and environmental degradation.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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4.5
850 reviews
Excellent
534
Very good
223
Average
64
Poor
18
Terrible
11
Sue Per
Guatemala121 contributions
Sept 2022 • Friends
I’d visited the restaurant many times with elderly people and kids. This time I stop by with friends, and they asked us to pay Q50 admission fee per person, even though we were just going to the restaurant for breakfast. So we changed our mind going to a different place.
Written 6 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chelsea D
Dallas, TX615 contributions
Nov 2021 • Solo
Reserva Atitlan was a gorgeous sanctuary set within the already isolated mountain lake village that is Panajachel. Especially visiting in the off-season of November, I practically had the place to myself.
I took a tuk tuk from my B&B, and only had one issue. I had booked a zip line session before traveling to Guatemala. But my B&B host assured me that times were flexible at the Reserva. They're not. Arrive early for your slot, even in off-season. Thankfully, I was able to rebook for later that morning.
I spent my free time pre-zip line taking in the rest of the Reserva. I hiked through a cloud forest, crossed hanging bridges, walked to the lake shore, and saw many birds, some monkeys, and toured the butterfly geodome. That was a true highlight.
The zip line was really cool, through multiple levels. You do have to hike up to the top of the Reserva...and you should speak Spanish. The brief intro training was a little rough with my medium Spanish and the two guides' zero English, but we made do. I was given thick gloves for holding the cable, a helmet, and we all wore masks.
I took a tuk tuk from my B&B, and only had one issue. I had booked a zip line session before traveling to Guatemala. But my B&B host assured me that times were flexible at the Reserva. They're not. Arrive early for your slot, even in off-season. Thankfully, I was able to rebook for later that morning.
I spent my free time pre-zip line taking in the rest of the Reserva. I hiked through a cloud forest, crossed hanging bridges, walked to the lake shore, and saw many birds, some monkeys, and toured the butterfly geodome. That was a true highlight.
The zip line was really cool, through multiple levels. You do have to hike up to the top of the Reserva...and you should speak Spanish. The brief intro training was a little rough with my medium Spanish and the two guides' zero English, but we made do. I was given thick gloves for holding the cable, a helmet, and we all wore masks.
Written 1 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Catherine M
Darlington, UK80 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
We did the ultra zip wires and absolutely loved it. The setting is absolutely stunning, and the zip wires were brilliant. I think the ultra is definitely worth the extra time and cost- the first three zip wires are really high, and long, with superb views over the lake.
The guides were friendly and helpful and the whole adventure felt really safe. Would highly recommend
The guides were friendly and helpful and the whole adventure felt really safe. Would highly recommend
Written 19 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
VeganMadeEasy
Glen Ellyn, IL2,177 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
Walk along the main road for about 10 min, take a left and all the way to the back on the right past the hotel is the entrance. Recommend to take a TukTuk as the main road doesn’t have a sidewalk. It’s about 1.5 miles, entrance fee Q80, for walking around, is well worth it. Butterfly garden is amazing! You see pizotes (white nosed coati) roaming around freely. The path up leads you right to the waterfall and down to where the monkeys are. You can see them across from the platform within the fenced in area.
Written 16 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tgfleming1
Drayton Valley, Canada2 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
This was a great side adventure. Great trails and swinging bridges. A waterfall that I'm sure would be amazing after a bit more rainfall.Spider monkeys and Cody's. A butterfly dome that was so full of butterflies that it's like a wonderland.There are several trails and one that takes you right down to the lake with a small beach and picnic area. Entrance into the park was about 25Q or $4 cdn. Diffinately with the time. Plan on spending about 3 to 4 hours.
Written 24 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sahily H
1 contribution
Mar 2022
Atitlan is a well-known place because of its beautiful nature, especially because of the Atitlan Lake. Nevertheless, the lake is actually not the only gorgeous stuff to see. TN he Atitlan natural reserve is one of biggest natural reserves in Guatemala. It is a perfect place to visit being with family and friends or even alone.
The one of the activities there is riding a bike on a wire. Probably not the best activity if you are afraid of highs, but it will be an experience you will not forget. From there you could see a coffee plantation, a monkey enclosure, the lake, and the mountains. The one requirement is to be able to ride a bike, so it is ideal to do it with teenagers and adults or alone rather than with children also because you have to measure 1.20 meters.
Another amazing thing to see is the butterfly reserve. The reserve is a controlled space where butterflies can live and reproduce safely. It is the peaceful place to admire butterflies closely. There are wonderful species like Morpho Peleus, Diaethria Anna, Dione Juno and Agraulis Vanillae.
Finally, you can walk throughout all the nature. The reserve has trails in which are monkeys, coatis, and birds. Here you could see the nature closer than in the bike on a wire. Of course, you should be careful to not disturb the wildlife there. To see the monkeys, you have to go to the coffee plantation. You will be able to smell the delicious coffee aroma and see some monkeys!
In conclusion, it is a place that will bring you peace and fun. It does not matter if your are alone or with companion, the experience will be unforgettable. The reserve has extreme activities such as wire cycling. Nevertheless, it also has relaxing activities such as watching butterflies. It has activities for every taste.
The one of the activities there is riding a bike on a wire. Probably not the best activity if you are afraid of highs, but it will be an experience you will not forget. From there you could see a coffee plantation, a monkey enclosure, the lake, and the mountains. The one requirement is to be able to ride a bike, so it is ideal to do it with teenagers and adults or alone rather than with children also because you have to measure 1.20 meters.
Another amazing thing to see is the butterfly reserve. The reserve is a controlled space where butterflies can live and reproduce safely. It is the peaceful place to admire butterflies closely. There are wonderful species like Morpho Peleus, Diaethria Anna, Dione Juno and Agraulis Vanillae.
Finally, you can walk throughout all the nature. The reserve has trails in which are monkeys, coatis, and birds. Here you could see the nature closer than in the bike on a wire. Of course, you should be careful to not disturb the wildlife there. To see the monkeys, you have to go to the coffee plantation. You will be able to smell the delicious coffee aroma and see some monkeys!
In conclusion, it is a place that will bring you peace and fun. It does not matter if your are alone or with companion, the experience will be unforgettable. The reserve has extreme activities such as wire cycling. Nevertheless, it also has relaxing activities such as watching butterflies. It has activities for every taste.
Written 15 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
trisharaewong44
Los Angeles, CA114 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
Honestly a little scary experience Ziplining lol I had to remind myself to breathe. It was my first time Ziplining and we chose to do the biggest one. It was well worth it. Spanish speaking instructors which I was kind of scared of because I don’t speak Spanish but I managed to understand the instructions. There were plenty of others in the group that also didn’t speak Spanish. It was just a quick demonstration less than five minutes.
Everyone is a pro here and the equipment is in nice condition. They have constant eyes on you making sure everything is secure and 100% ready.
Credit card and cash are accepted. Make sure you have cash, 10Q per person per each direction in a tuktuk, no need to tip. Can walk but it is dangerous and not recommended to do so as there is a blind turn before the entrance.
Zipline admission includes park admission. They allow small Fanny packs, think lululemon everywhere bag. Sunglasses we were allowed to wear since we had the neck lanyard. We brought a plastic water bottle and drank it along the way, they provide water after like the fourth zipline I can’t remember. But if you bring your own bottle you’ll probably have to stuff it in your bra and carry it with you the entire way since there’s no trash cans on the trail.
Everyone is a pro here and the equipment is in nice condition. They have constant eyes on you making sure everything is secure and 100% ready.
Credit card and cash are accepted. Make sure you have cash, 10Q per person per each direction in a tuktuk, no need to tip. Can walk but it is dangerous and not recommended to do so as there is a blind turn before the entrance.
Zipline admission includes park admission. They allow small Fanny packs, think lululemon everywhere bag. Sunglasses we were allowed to wear since we had the neck lanyard. We brought a plastic water bottle and drank it along the way, they provide water after like the fourth zipline I can’t remember. But if you bring your own bottle you’ll probably have to stuff it in your bra and carry it with you the entire way since there’s no trash cans on the trail.
Written 14 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sjeffries2023
Los Angeles, CA9 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
I walked here with my two kids (ages 7 & 11) from the nearby Hotel Atitlán; we did the "X-Tremos" zipline circuit (the more basic of the two options). The two young guides – one guy, one gal – were super friendly and communicated well, despite the language barrier (their English was better than our Spanish ... my youngest kid speaks the most).
The zip lines were a blast, and the scenery was beautiful. I had read a review mentioning noise from the cables, so I brought ear plugs for myself (as I'm sensitive to noise). My 7-year-old did her first few rides in tandem with a guide, but then chose to do the rest on her own. The kids loved it!
We also checked out the butterfly pavilion and watched the monkeys a bit. I wouldn't necessarily recommend visiting here just for those things – the zip lines are the main attraction, and highly recommended!
The zip lines were a blast, and the scenery was beautiful. I had read a review mentioning noise from the cables, so I brought ear plugs for myself (as I'm sensitive to noise). My 7-year-old did her first few rides in tandem with a guide, but then chose to do the rest on her own. The kids loved it!
We also checked out the butterfly pavilion and watched the monkeys a bit. I wouldn't necessarily recommend visiting here just for those things – the zip lines are the main attraction, and highly recommended!
Written 4 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HockeyMom1068
Shelton, CT17 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
We did the Ultra Extreme Zip Line. Pay the extra money and go with Ultra Extreme. It was AMAZING. My only dissatisfaction with the experience was with the guides. We were the only two people taking the Ultra Extreme at that time slot and they absolutely rushed us through. Maybe it was the language barrier but they bordered on rudeness as they rushed us from line to line (6 total?). Didn’t get a change to get photos/video etc.
Written 8 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrea V
11 contributions
Mar 2022
This natural reserve off of Panajachel is the perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You can breathe the fresh air, walk the trails and hanging bridges, and encounter some wild life (mainly monkeys, coatis, and a variety of birds).
We did the Cables X-tremos ziplining which was so much fun. We were a group of 5 people of different ages and everyone was able to participate and enjoy. The guides were so professional and had everyone's safety in mind at all times. Some of the flights overlook Lake Atitlan and some go through the forest, with different lengths and speeds. I would recommend this experience to anyone staying in the Atitlán area.
We did the Cables X-tremos ziplining which was so much fun. We were a group of 5 people of different ages and everyone was able to participate and enjoy. The guides were so professional and had everyone's safety in mind at all times. Some of the flights overlook Lake Atitlan and some go through the forest, with different lengths and speeds. I would recommend this experience to anyone staying in the Atitlán area.
Written 30 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, is there a place to store bags or luggage?
Written 5 March 2021
Hi All,
I am traveling to Guatemala in October and want to do the zip line. We’ll be staying in Pana and will take a tuk-tuk to the preserve. Where do we go buying the zip line when there?
Written 2 February 2020
We bought the tickets at the site, no early booking was necessary, but it might be wise to make sure it's not a busy time when you're there.
Written 2 February 2020
Hi, it is indeed possible. Some experience is welcome.
Written 7 January 2020
verboomjenna10
London, Canada
Hola, if I want to zip line do I have to book in advance or can I show up the day of and pay for it then?
Written 28 April 2018
We just walked in... and bought the tickets.
Written 18 June 2018
Do you charge for children under 4? I have a 1yr old and a 3yr old. Thanks!
Written 10 February 2018
No charge into the reserve. Your children will love the hike to the waterfalls and at the butterfly house. Tip: Bring bug spray and wear long pants, high socks and tennis shoes for the children. No shorts or sandals. My legs got bit up hiking up the mountain when zip lining. The bug bites on my ankles bothered me for weeks. Its a beautiful hike, very lush, and the suspension bridges are fun. Your children will love the monkeys and the butterfly house. Enjoy!!
Written 9 May 2018
si vas individual por los servicios no es nada barato , pero si te quedas a dormir ahí incluye todo y la noche no es nada cara para lo que ofrecen y donde esta ubicado
Written 16 January 2018
Hola,
If I want to camp at the site do I just show up or do I need to make a reservation?
Thanks!
Written 27 April 2017
You can just show up, but it is good if you let us know when you are arriving so as to welcome you properly. You can call +502 7762 2565 during office hours 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
If you need a tent, for sure let us know. We do have some.
Hope to see you here shortly
Written 27 April 2017
What was the cost per person to enter the reserve and then to zip line?
Written 8 January 2017
I think it was $10 to get in and $30 for zip lining. It is well worth it! Great experience. You can even learn some Mayan words from the guides on the way up! Free language lesson. Haha
Written 9 January 2017
I will be visiting in Dec. Wondering if many people who did this were "older"? I have done zip lining once in Costa Rica. It seemed tamer than what I've been reading here.
Written 5 November 2016
Our safety standards and procedures are among the best in the trade. So with that potential concern out of the way, I should add that we have weekly group of folks with an average age of 63 yrs and we are experienced in handling "older" folks.
We've had visitors in their late eighties who found the experience exciting and enjoyable because of our training cable and the care of our experienced guides.
As you read in the web site, there is some walking uphill, and we take our time with folks who prefere so. We hope to see you on the zip lines.
Written 7 November 2016
do we need a guide or is it fine just wandering around?
Written 16 September 2016
Ziplining requires a guide, I believe walking around the park can be done on your own.
Written 19 September 2016
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