Located in the southwestern part of Guatemala, this stunning lake is known for its breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture. thr lake is surrounded with views of three different volcanoes, Mayan ruins and local villages.
I had the chance to visit lake Atitlán with a few friends and it was the highlight of our trip in Guatemala. We took a boat ride on a traditional wooden boat and rode to different points where we could exit the boat and hike certain areas of the lake and explore the mercantile villages and try their delicious cultural dishes. Here are 10 things I recommend doing while visiting this beautiful lake.
1. Take a boat tour across the lake – Enjoy stunning views and explore the local villages that line the shores of Lake Atitlán.
2. Swim in the crystal clear waters – Take a dip and refresh yourself in some of the clearest water in the world.
3. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Marcos – Explore the ancient ruins of San Marcos, located high on a hill overlooking the lake.
4. Climb the San Pedro Volcano – Take an adventurous hike up San Pedro Volcano for stunning panoramic views.
5. Soak in the outdoor hot springs – Relax in the natural hot springs or take a mineral mud soak at one of the nearby spas.
6. Sample the local cuisine – Enjoy delicious regional dishes like Pepián, Jocón and Tamales.
7. Shop at the local markets – Pick up souvenirs, handicrafts and colorful textiles at markets in nearby towns.
8. Explore the colonial towns of Santiago and Panajachel – Wander the cobblestone streets of these charming towns and learn more about their Spanish-influenced histories.
9. Take a cooking class – Learn how to make traditional Guatemalan dishes with a local cooking class.
10. Go birdwatching – Spot local species like the White-fronted Parrot, Bare-throated Tiger Heron, and Blue-and-white Mockingbird.
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