La Lancha

La Lancha is tucked into the rainforest high above the shore of Lago Peten Itza in Guatemala’s largest and most northern department, the Peten. The lodge is located an hour away from the Belize border and only a 45-minute drive from the magnificent Maya ruins of Tikal and the Maya Biosphere Reserve.

Across the lake, the ancient island capital of the Itza tribe, Tayasal, now lies under the cobbled streets and colonial buildings of modern day Flores. La Lancha’s ideal location makes it easy to explore the wonders of the ancient Maya. The spectacular monuments of Tikal, Uxactun, Yaxha, Topoxte, Nakum, Dos Pilas, Aguateca and Seibal can all be visited by day tour, and helicopter access during the summer months opens up other mighty Maya sites such as El Mirador, Dos Pilas, El Peru Waka and Cancuen. The neighboring forest lends itself to a wide range of adventure options as well, whether it be aerial walkway, zip line, horseback or jungle trail, while Lago Peten Itza can be enjoyed by canoe, kayak or launch.

From the Main Lodge, winding paths lead to secluded guest Casitas.  Each is brightly decorated, inspired by native art furnishings. The Rainforest Casitas have a view of the surrounding forest and partial view of the lake, while the Lakeview Casitas offer a breathtaking panorama of Lake Peten Itza.  Outside, enjoy a covered deck with hammocks and comfortable chairs.  Lakeview Casitas (4) – Features anextra large bedroom with queen size bed and large marble tile bathroom.  Rainforest Casitas (6) – Feature native furniture, arts and crafts, queen size bed, and a comfortable private bathroom.

The Main Lodge, with its soaring thatch-roof and open views, is where the activity begins.  Enjoy breakfast surrounded by parrots, toucans, and the rare motmot, relax with cocktails in the courtyard, and sample delicious local Guatemalteca cuisine at our restaurant.  A family of howler monkeys lives nearby and visits the Lodge every night to entertain guests with their loud roars.  

Walk down the trail to the shore of Lake Peten Itza where you can swim, fish, canoe or kayak. Or relax by the pool, search out rare species of birds, and learn to speak Spanish.  La Lancha is the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, nature, culture, and comfort.

La Lancha Resort is one of Francis Ford Coppola’s three environmentally sound and remote luxury resorts. Here you’ll find heavenly silence (save for the calls of the resident howler monkeys, parrots and toucans) as you relax in your lake-view or rainforest casita, complete with a covered balcony, hammock, shower and rich Guatemalan decor. Spend your days exploring nearby Tikal National Park, lounging next to the swimming pool, taking a dip in the lake or trekking through Mayan ruins. Cap off the day in the dining room, with Guatemalan specialties complemented by romantic candlelight and the staff’s impeccable service.

Take a boat ride across Lake Peten Itza to the charming town of Flores for authentic Guatemalan cuisine and to shop for handwoven blankets. Distance from Flores Airport (FRS): 45 minutes