Lake Atitlán
Lago de Atitlán
Lake Atitlán – located three hours (156 km) west of the capital, Lake Atitlán is world-
renowned as one of most beautiful lakes on the planet. The lake is in a magical,
mystical setting, surrounded by volcanoes and green-clad mountains. Atitlán has a
surface area of over 50 square miles and is the deepest lake in Central America.
Many guidebooks treat Lake Atitlan as one destination, but dozens of towns and
villages are within that area (each one with its own unique characteristics and
attractions. Atitlán deserves plenty of attention. The area offers more sights and
experiences than any other part of Guatemala.
The main town is Panajachel, the tourist hub of the region. Other towns include San
Pedro with its backpacking and party scene; San Marcos, a pure hippy town where you
can get your chakras realigned; Santa Cruz, a typical Mayan town built into steep hills;
and Jaibalito, a tiny town only accessible by water or by foot where everyone has the
last word on authenticity.