Set in the rainforest high above the shores of Lago Petén Itzá is La Lancha, a quaint 10-room lodge decorated with artwork and furniture from Bali, as well as fabrics and carvings from Guatemala. Beyond the clear water of the lake lies Tikal, the epicenter of Mayan spirituality. Buried deep within the rainforest, the ruins include more than 3,000 structures, where moss clings to the steps of ancient temples and plazas. With its beautiful lakeshore setting, relaxed ambiance, and close proximity to the lost world of the Maya, La Lancha is an ideal destination to enjoy a languid pace while exploring the many adventures of the Petén region.
Hotel Amenities
Main Lodge
Set high in the hillside above Lago Petén Itzá is the charming Main Lodge. This split-level building is the hub of activity at La Lancha, housing the reception area, gift shop, patio, restaurant, and bar under its towering thatch roof. The open-plan design offers beautiful panoramic views of the lake and jungle canopy below. The lodge’s patio features a small library decorated with native art furnishings and is a popular place for guests to access complimentary Wi-Fi or relax with a book in the plush armchairs.
Lake and Pool
The second largest lake in Guatemala, Lago Petén Itzá is famous for its dramatic color changes, shifting from cobalt blue to a green turquoise hue in an instant. Some in the local community believe the cool waters possess almost magical powers due to the powerful sense of rejuvenation many people experience after swimming. Complimentary canoes are also available to guests. La Lancha’s split-level pool, located just below the main lodge, offers a refreshing retreat after a trek through the Maya ruins of Tikal and provides spectacular views over the lake.
Gift Shop
Stocked with one-of-a-kind artistic treasures and basic necessities, the new and expanded gift shop provides a glimpse of Guatemala. It features locally made hand-carved and painted masks alongside handmade ceramics and textiles. A wide variety of huipils—a functional yet symbolic component of a Mayan woman’s wardrobe—are also available, purchased directly from weavers in small Guatemalan villages.
Restaurant
La Lancha’s open-air restaurant is located under the main lodge’s thatch roof, offering spectacular views of the forest canopy and nearby Lago Petén Itzá. Enjoy a cooked breakfast accompanied by the morning chorus of parakeets and ground doves, along with the occasional call of the resident howler monkeys. Dinner features authentic Guatemalan dishes such as Chilaquiles, beef tenderloin with chiltepe peppercorn sauce grilled on the open parilla, and Suban Ik ("God’s meal"), a traditional dish containing chicken, beef, rice, and spices.
Bar
Guests can enjoy aged Guatemalan rum or a refreshing Belize-brewed beer at the rooftop bar. Set in the soaring thatch roof above the restaurant, the bar offers unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Petén Itzá. It's a wonderful place to relax with a book or meet friends for an aperitif before dinner.
Guest Accommodation
From the main lodge, winding paths lead to secluded guest Casitas. Each Casita is brightly decorated and inspired by native art furnishings. The Rainforest Casitas offer a view of the surrounding forest with a partial view of the lake, while the Lakeview Casitas provide a breathtaking panorama of Lago Petén Itzá. All accommodations at La Lancha include bathrobes, a safe deposit box, a refrigerator stocked with water, wine, soft drinks, and Belikin beer, wireless Internet access, a shellphone for communicating with reception, air conditioning, a writing table and chair, two umbrellas, organic locally sourced handmade toiletries, and in-room dining.
Rainforest Casitas
Nestled in the forest with a partial view of Lago Petén Itzá, these Casitas feature a queen-sized bed and a comfortable private bathroom. The furniture is sourced from Guatemalan producers, and the décor includes many locally made arts and crafts. Outside, a covered deck with hammocks and plush chairs is ideal for an afternoon nap.
Lakeview Casitas
A large deck with hammocks and chairs offers a comfortable setting for enjoying views of the lake and rainforest. Each Casita features antique Balinese and Guatemalan furniture, an expansive bedroom with a queen-size bed, and a large marble-tiled bathroom. Friendly howler monkeys often visit the edges of the decks, reminding guests of the lodge's lush natural surroundings.
Rooms
Rainforest Casitas
Nestled in the forest with a partial view of Lago Petén Itzá, these Casitas feature a queen-size bed and a comfortable private bathroom. The furniture is sourced from Guatemalan producers and our Guatemala luxury hideaway décor features many locally made arts and crafts. Outside, enjoy a covered deck with hammocks and chairs ideal for an afternoon nap.
