Lake and Mountain Tour of Guatemala
Nestled in the temperate mountain region of the Western highlands, Lake Atitlan is a haven for locals and tourists alike. Only a two and half hour drive from Guatemala's capital, Guatemala City and the popular colonial town of Antigua, Lake Atitlan is a very accessible destination. The winning combination of being 15 degrees above the equator and 1560 metres above sea level, makes the climate ideal. It's not too hot and never too cold! The sun shines throughout the year - even during the rainy season.
Panajachel is the first stop for most, if not all buses arriving from Guatemala City and Antigua. It is definitely a place to explore for a day or so, before venturing off to the many Indian villages that are scattered around the lake.
Panajachel or ‘Pana' as most locals call it, has stunning views of the three volcanoes, surrounding the beautiful lake itself. These are Toliman, Atitlan and San Pedro.
Arrive at dawn and witness the mist clear to reveal the first glimpse of the bluey-green deep waters, the lush banks and the fisherman setting out for the day in old wooden canoes. The faint smell of pine drifts over and for now, this is the most peaceful place on earth.
During the day Pana becomes a bustling town with many hotels, markets, cafes and bars. There is always much to see in this colourful place, including the original façade of the old church. This was used to convert Indians to the Catholic faith during the Spanish conquest.
Pana's busy market street is Calle Sentader where you will arguably find the best souvenirs in Guatemala. It's also the main strip and generally all bars and restaurants are to be found here.
A tip for a good hostel is the Mario Rooms. It's good, clean accommodation, boasts hammock lined balconies and a roof terrace for enjoying the fabulous views. Do make sure you leave time to sample the nightlife and local cuisine. In a country where food is generally bland, here you can find a real treat!
Grab a lakeside breakfast, where the locals will rustle you up something tasty and generally produced in the region. When you're full - leave early for one of the many villages that border the lake. Whatever your taste, there is a village to suit! From San Pedro's bohemian ambience to the quiet retreats of San Marcos. All are made famous by the female weavers and traditional clothing.
My first stop was San Pedro, reached by a 40 minute water taxi across the lake. San Pedro is by far the backpacker‘s favourite with its many hostels, bars and activities. Here, you can rent kayaks, snorkel, horse ride and trek to the next village - the opportunities are endless. The village itself is very hilly so be ready to hike up and down to get anywhere. The spectacular panorama from the top is truly breathtaking! The sky and lake are simply separated by an abundance of green, the trees seem to go on forever and the stillness of the water creates an aura of true tranquillity.
Again the cuisine is extraordinarily good and you can take your pick from many international dishes. The Thai food comes highly recommended! Make sure your camera is always poised as this happy little village always gives the visitor something to snap. From kids splashing in and out of the lake to old friends gathering for afternoon gossips.
At night this village certainly comes to life and with so many bars and restaurants to choose from, you'll never be far from a cold beer. It has that bohemian feel, with many gringos, bongos, tie dye outfits and a typical chilled out atmosphere.
After three or four days of partying why not pop over the pond to the uber chilled out San Marcos. It's reached by either a two hour hike from San Pedro or a 40 minute boat ride. Beware though. Avoid arriving on Sundays because everything will be full or closed.
San Marcos's banana, mango and avocado tree lined shores are the perfect stage for this new age, yoga loving village. Walk away from the jetty in any direction and you will be greeted by fir fringed paths – all leading to spas and retreats that offer massages of all kinds. Yoga, Pilates and any other relaxation therapy you could imagine are also readily available. This village has a quiet, tranquil and calm atmosphere, and there is no nightlife.
San Marcos is more of a holiday from a holiday. Swim for hours off one the jetties in the clear cool waters of the lake, climb up into the village to meet the locals, sample the delights of the organic bakery, recover in the healing centre and generally relax. Lie back and admire the mesmerising sights of the wildlife, the ever-changing shades of green that the trees offer, the calmness and serenity that the sound of the lake creates while gently stroking the shore and by night, get truly lost in the dark sky. Looking up, you will see more stars then your dreams could ever envisage.
On a clear day it's possible to catch a glimpse of Volcano Acatenanga's grey, 3675 metre peak which lies 50 kilometres to the east. Put all of this together and you have San Marcos. You'll leave feeling more alive then ever and ready for your next adventure. Catch the boat back to Panajachel, indulge in a spot of shopping and then catch the 4pm bus back through the amazing and diverse scenery that is Guatemala.
Be sure to give Lake Atitlan the once over and you may, like many, end up staying a life time.
- Nicci Perides
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