At first glance, Lake Atitlan may seem like any resort
destination, a picturesque, tranquil place to rest and relax. Yet,
this is the heartland of traditional Mayan culture in Guatemala,
ringed by several dormant volcanoes and verdant forest rich with
wildlife, waiting to be explored.
For the active, summiting Volcan San Pedro is a truly
off-the-beaten-track challenge; without a local guide and a machete
to cut through the brush, the trip can be dangerous, even for the
most experienced trekkers, but therein lies the fun! There are also
plenty of other excursions, such as motorcycling and paragliding
through surrounding areas, as well as kayaking and cruising on the
lake.
Panajachel, a hippie haven in the 60s, offers good tourist
amenities and a bohemian atmosphere that will be familiar to many
travellers. The surrounding villages, however, are places to learn
about local folklore, arts, and crafts handed down by many
generations of Mayans. Come here and leisurely explore all of them
as a welcome guest, which, in combination with the numerous
adventure activities available, make Lake Atitlan a richly
rewarding resort stop.