Laguna Atitlan

When I first planned this trip, I had several specific intentions in mind on what I wanted to see, do and experience.

While traveling around Guatemala and Costa Rica to see the amazing sites and do the fun tourist activities is on the agenda, my original plan for Guatemala was to stay for some time in one place to become more immersed in a community and have an authentic connection with the language and culture here.

Im so glad Laguna Atitlan was the place I chose to do that.

Women dressed in the traditional dresses from their home village.

Lake Atitlan is surrounded by several small villages which still practice certain Mayan traditions. The culture is very much preserved and respected in these villages where they take pride in their ancestry.  While towns like Panajachel and San Pedro (where I am staying) have adapted some westernized customs to cater to its tourists, other villages are fairly protected and untainted by modern culture.



The majority of my time here has been taking Spanish classes and volunteering in the local community. I have had the chance to travel a bit to the other towns and enjoy the spectacular scenery from all different angles.

The view of the lake from my "classroom" in San Pedro.             

What has been great about Lake Atitlan is that there is never a lack of something to do. It has a beautifully simnple, laid-back culture. My adventerous side is covered by kayaking to abandoned homes swallowed up by rising lake levels, bike riding through the small villages or hiking to a summit before sunrise. However, I have also found I am totally content swinging in my hammok at the hostel reading a book or having a long, quiet meal overlooking the lake.

View of San Pedro Volcano from the other side of the lake.

 I think Lake Atitlan and its surrounding villages is a place people can get caught up in for awhile. The thought of staying longer has passed my mind on several occasions...had I not made plans to travel on, or other obligations back at home, I could see myself staying for several more weeks.

With its mystical waters and towering mountain landsapes, paired with a kindhearted and gentle people, there is a little bit of something for every one in Atitlan.