Lake Atitlán is located in the Republic of Guatemala and is the largest closed lake in all of Central America. Many travelers consider it to be one of the most picturesque lakes they have ever seen. Some people come here to enjoy a calm, measured rest, to admire the reservoir and the volcanoes and mountains surrounding it. Others prefer outdoor activities, water and hiking, climbing to the tops of volcanoes. Some tourists study with interest the special way of life and traditions of the peoples inhabiting the villages located on the banks of Atitlan.
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| Lake Atitlan |
Peculiarities
The reservoir was formed due to volcanic activity - the huge pit that arose as a result of the eruption gradually filled with water.
The length of the lake is about 19 km, the width is about 10 km, the depth reaches 340 meters.
It is located at an altitude of approximately 1500 meters above sea level. According to one version, its name is translated as a place where the rainbow takes on colors. The attractiveness of the reservoir for many tourists lies in the area that surrounds it, near it offers a magnificent view of the volcanoes - San Pedro, Toliman and Atitlan.
In 1996, during an amateur dive into the lake, an archaeologist and diver at a depth of about 30 meters discovered the remains of an ancient city - fragments of residential buildings, religious buildings and other curious artifacts. They pointed out that there used to be a settlement here - one of the religious centers of the Maya civilization. There is a version that the village was located on an island that was flooded as a result of a natural disaster - a volcanic eruption or a landslide.
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| Lake Atitlan |
Things to Do
On the shores of the reservoir there are several settlements in which the Mayan peoples live - Tzotzili and Kaqchikel, the largest of them is the city of Panajachel. This is one of the most popular places among tourists to stay near the lake. There are many accommodation options to suit different budgets. In the city there are cafes offering to try local cuisine, there are offices of travel companies, a market with souvenirs. One of the interesting places that you can visit near the city is the natural reserve of Atitlán.
It is pleasant to take a walk in it, studying local plants, and here you can also see a wide variety of butterfly species, among the animals there are noses and spider monkeys. No less exciting will be a walk to the waterfall located on the territory of the reserve. Adventure lovers have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the sights by trying out a zip-line - a downhill ride along a steel cable. Trips to more colorful settlements located on the banks of Atitlan often start from Panajachel. Here it is interesting to get acquainted with the traditions and way of life of the local population.
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| Lake Atitlan |
Tourists like, for example, to stay in San Pedro La Laguna, they note that the infrastructure is quite well developed here, you can choose comfortable living conditions, in addition, many people like the relaxed atmosphere that prevails in the village. If you want to combine relaxation with learning Spanish, then this place is perfect for you, because there are several language schools in which classes can be held outdoors - learning the language is doubly enjoyable while enjoying the views of Lake Atitlán. The local temple is a landmark historical building. Tourists also enjoy walking along the streets of the village, studying the drawings and graffiti that adorn the walls of some houses.
If you gravitate towards natural attractions, then you should climb the extinct San Pedro volcano, its height is 3020 meters above sea level. From its top, there is a breathtaking view of Lake Atitlan and its surroundings. Yoga and meditation enthusiasts can head to San Marcos La Laguna for a relaxing holiday. The measured rhythm of the life of the settlement contributes to relaxation and unity with nature, which is especially important for residents of megacities.
In addition, in the settlements located on the shores of the lake, you can go climbing other peaks, fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and cycling. You can explore the lake in more detail and enjoy its views thanks to boat trips. Many sights can be visited on your own, but some tourists prefer to book excursions in travel agencies, because walking with local guides allows you to learn many interesting facts about the places and life of the local population.
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| Lake Atitlan |
How to get there
You can get to the city of Panajachel, the largest settlement on the coast of the reservoir, from Guatemala 's La Aurora Airport by bus. You can also book a transfer on site.
It is convenient to get to the lake in a rented car, for example, you can pick up a car using the services of the Rentalcars service. The distance from Guatemala City to the reservoir is about 130 km.