Lago Atitlán is by far the most beautiful lake I have ever seen in my life so far. And I say that for pretty much every single angle that I have looked at this lake.
Lago Atitlán is… simply an absolute and genuine beauty. It is a lake that was created by a huge explosion of a supervolcano and is now surrounded by volcanoes and mountains, in-between which you find small, super cute and diverse villages.  
Depending on from where you take off, there are many different ways to get to Lago Atitlán. It will though pretty sure be by chickenbus – one of the coolest, most local and funniest experiences you can have in Guatemala 😀 And once you’re at the lake, you pretty much only get around by speedboat – these things are pretty fast and it can get really bumpy at times. I loved it 😀 Apart from that, the views obviously are really great 😊
Most villages also have hostels and hotels. I though believe Panajachel and San Marcos are the main destinations for backpackers and found Santiago to be the most local of the villages I’ve been to during my stay. In addition to exploring the villages, I would highly recommend watching the sunrise on the ‘Nariz del Indio’ and hiking the ‘Volcán San Pedro’. There are many other great things to do at Lago Atitlán, but I will never forget these two incredible experiences and views. And last but not least, Lago Atitlán is one of those places you just get stuck / don’t want to leave. I don’t know anyone who left Lago Atitlán at the time planned. Simply because the atmosphere is so relaxed and peaceful, there is really a lot you can do and it is just so incredibly beautiful everywhere 😀 😊

Go or not? Well, it’s your own fault if you voluntarily skip Lago Atitlán. Because this lake is one of those places that pictures don’t do justice to and one of the reasons why no other country in Central America can compete with the landscape of Guatemala 😊