This place is an absolute dream come true. The service is excellent and the view is out of this world. The owners are very special people, they make you feel at home and spoil you with delicious breakfast, homemade dinners every night and fresh pretzels. Gaby and her husband are extraordinary people. I HIGHLY recommend this place. I give it 10 stars.

This was a most spectacular and breathtaking place to stay. We got the top view. A bit of a hike up but so worth it. We got to lay in bed and look out to the stars, daybreak and volcanos. From the balcony we could see the lake. I loved the open private bathroom and our own sitting area. Definitely glamping. The next surprise was the restaurant there. Like having your own private chef. My husband always finds the most amazing places to stay. So friendly and loved the dogs.

Staying at El Picnic was truly unique & an unforgettable experience. Located in one of the quietest areas of Lake Atitlan (Tzununa), it is where you go to truly unwind. I stayed 2 nights. The Owners Gabi & Jochen are absolutely the most wonderful hosts you’ll meet. Warm, genuine, honest individuals who have built this 4 room accommodation out of their Love & Passion (architect & civil engineer). They live on property and are there to serve guests 24/7 and make sure you have the optimal experience. Food: A hearty delicious breakfast is included. Dinner is optional (additional charge), which I highly recommend. Not many restaurants will be open in the area and most guests staying on property opt for Dinner, so its a cozy vibe while meeting other travelers. They have a full bar and make great cocktails - try an “Old fashioned Rum” Rooms: Considered Glamping, but in a luxurious TreeHouse setting. Comfortable bed with a view of the stars at night. It’s all partially opened but there is enough blanket at night & fresh air w/view of the stars. Location: Tzununa is a very quiet, local area, not affected by mass tourism. There are about a dozen other boutique hotels (mainly Yoga related stays). This is good for those wanting to partake in the Yoga & Spiritual scene. Activities: Yoga, Rent a Kayak in the morning, Breakfast, go for a Hike, Massage, Swim, visit neighboring Laketowns via Watertaxi (10 minutes between each).. come back for Dinner & enjoy a nice quiet rest.

I havw traveled to 52 countries and stayed in some amazing hotels but this place may be one of the best I have ever stayed at. Incredible views, accomodation. Great food/service. Really nothing negative to say.

We stayed in the deluxe double and it was exactly what we were hoping for. The owners and staff are friendly and helpful, including in setting up our transportation. We had no issues getting to and from the hotel. It is a bit isolated (in a good way) so we were able to relax with good views, and had some of the best food we had during our trip. Prices were reasonable for what you get. I was a little worried I would be cold at night, but the room was super comfortable and there were no issues with temperature. Highly recommend; we would definitely stay again.

The place is absolutely gorgeous and the view at the lake is magical. Gaby and Johan were courteous and friendly, meals were delicious. They accommodated the meals to our vegan/ vegetarian diet. Highly recommended!

The room was not only clean, but had a spectacular view and was so comfortable. Staff was so nice and accommodating. One of the best parts about our stay was the included breakfast and the dinner (not included) which was delicious! We thought we’d explore the island more for dinner but ended up eating at El Picnic because it was just that good. Gaby is an amazing hostess and went above and beyond to assist us with whatever we needed as well. Thanks for a great stay that we will always remember!

Amazing views and staff

We stayed in the panoramic room and it was even better than we imagined. The view from the room was incredible. The bathroom was very clean. The space is open, yet it still felt very private. We felt like we didn’t need to leave to enjoy our time at the lake, but we did venture to neighboring towns around the lake. It is easy to catch the ferry from the public Tzununa dock, which is a 10 min walk or 3 min tuktuk ride away. Each morning and evening you can head to the restaurant for breakfast and dinner eaten with the hotel owners and other guests. The owners were very nice and great cooks. We were first time “glampers” and had a wonderful experience at El Picnic. We would recommend it to everyone. Just be aware that the entire place is on a hill and you must be able to go up and down stairs. There are also some bugs of course, but you are glamping so you must expect it. The bed was warm and there were extra blankets provided in case you need it. We didn’t need it. We also asked the hotel owners to arrange transport to and from the lake, which made our trip planning easier.

We had a wonderful stay. I wish we would have stayed longer. Owners are working on things around. The room was beautiful, bathroom was perfect. The view, breathtaking. The owners, Gabby and her husband were just wonderful, helpful and absolutely warm. We will be back! Lot of stairs but well worth it. I didn’t see restaurants around but taking the boat around the other towns was so easy.

Excellent food made in-house! Great and friendly staff and owneds :) amazing views! My only negative point is that we ear all the dogs bark day and night but nothing earbuds couldnt fix! 💯 worth it!

An incredible experience! The bed was comfy, the views were gorgeous, the food was delicious, and Gaby and Jochen were wonderful hosts. No complaints whatsoever.

owners really nice and accommodating. rooms were beautifully arranged with a outstanding view

You could write a book on all the wonderful things about El Picnic. Jochen&Gaby have crafted a serene and beautiful experience with some of the most amazing views of Lake Atitlan. Stellar views, thoughtfully designed rooms, relaxing lounge area, and delicious meals. It's a glamping experience that provides a great hub for checking out the other lake towns. Easy to get around via tuktuk or the ferry. Gaby was also so incredibly helpful and always available for any questions, suggestions or booking help. Jochen is modest about his culinary skills but they were plated beautifully, great portions and above all delicious. The mental recharge you get from the well maintained and beautiful grounds is unparalleled. Only word of advice is that bags with shoulder straps are prefered because there are steps and its easier to climb without rolling luggages. Do yourself the favor and book this amazing retreat with picture perfect views of the lake.

You will not find a more unique property or fascinating couple who are your hosts. They designed this volcanic tent/cottage resort with a panoramic view of Lake Atitlan and her Volcanoes. An amazing dining hall/bar etched into the volcanic rock with cusine made from scratch from your incredible Hosts Jochen y Gabbie. The sous vide steak/lomito was delicious. The nights under the moon and stars with the sounds of nature all around, make this a must stay at the lake. Hosts will hire private boats to enjoy the rest of the lake.

Staying at The Picnic Hotel in Tzununa was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the moment we arrived, the owner and staff welcomed us with such warmth and friendliness that it felt like coming home. Their hospitality made our stay incredibly personal and special. The hotel is nestled right in the heart of nature, offering a peaceful, grounding atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else. Waking up to the breathtaking view of the volcano and overlooking the serene Lake Atitlán was nothing short of magical. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe deeper, and truly appreciate the beauty around you. If you’re looking for an authentic, soul-nourishing escape in Guatemala, The Picnic Hotel is it. Highly recommended!

There aren't enough superlatives to describe El Picnic! From the wonderful hosts to the amazing rooms our stay was perfect.

Gaby and Jochen were absolute stellar hosts who were always there to answer any questions we had. Their exquisite meals were served in an open air bar high up overlooking the lake and volcanos in the distance. We would not hesitate to recommend this unique property with its open air rooms.

Just amazing

The view and room were gorgeous, the food was fresh, well-prepared and plentiful, and best of all Gaby and Jochen were so warm and inviting (but unobtrusive!) that our stay felt like a trip with old friends. Also, they make a mean rum old fashioned. We highly recommend Picnic for your Lake Atitlan stay!