Just outside of town 200 meters past Hotel Atitlán, this wonderful nature preserve on the grounds of a former coffee farm offers myriad attractions including a visitors center, a zip line between trees in the forest canopy, a butterfly farm, a lakeside beach, and well-designed nature trails with hanging bridges leading to waterfalls, where you can spot monkeys and coatis (pizotes) along the way. The park (tel. 7762-2565, www.atitlan.com/resnat.htm, $5 adults, $2 students/children) is open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily.

Recently added to the reserve are spacious and attractive accommodations for up to six people with decks overlooking the surrounding forests. Rates are $55 s/d during the week and $65 s/d on weekends. You are also welcome to camp here for $14. Tent rentals cost $4.50 per person.