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Guatemala

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Lake Atitlan and villages

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Guatemala: Lake Atitlan and villages

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In turn cobalt glassy-clear and silver misty, mirror-calm and wispy-waved, Atitlán is one of the most captivating lakes in the world. Many visitors linger here, and the shores are dotted with international communities as well as traditional Mayan villages. The lake is fringed by tiny fields where smallholders cultivate kitchen garden crops on fertile soils, beyond which are fuming green volcanoes which cast ever-changing shadows over the water. Lakeside settlements, most easily reached by boat across the water, are enlivened with textile markets, each with its own costume and character: Sololá and Santiago de Atitlán are among the largest and most interesting.

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Things to do in Lake Atitlan and villages

Mountain Bike around Lake Atitlán

Mountain bike around Lake Atitlan

Sololá Highland Market

Visit Solola highland market


Fish with Locals on Lake Atitlán

Fish with local fishermen on Lake Atitlan

Go Kayaking on Lake Atitlan

Go kayaking on Lake Atitlan

Our insider tips for Lake Atitlan and villages

Hannah

Hannah Donaldson

Meeting Maximón, a Mayan deity who enjoys smoking and copious drinking. His wooden effigy is carried around Santiago de Atitlán town every year and he ends up staying in the home of a local family where you can pay him to solve your problems.


Margot

Margot Chard

Wandering round Santa Catarina Palopó, a picturesque village with stone-flagged lanes and adobe cottages hung with bright textiles where keen family vendors vie for your custom.


Rafe Stone

Rafe Stone

Travelling by boat on the lake. In the early morning it should be accompanied by an ethereal calm while if the wind gets up later in the day it is more of a nautical experience on choppy waters.

Lina

Lina Fuller

If you fancy a pizza or some pancakes with a few cool beers, you can choose one of the many eateries in the laid-back (and a bit tacky) tourist resort and back-packer hang out of Panajachel.

What our experts say

I’ll never forget the peace and serenity of all the still water surrounded by volcanoes and small villages. I loved waking up to splendid views of the lake and going for long leisurely walks or taking a small boat to one of the numerous hamlets dotted around the lake – it was like a detox from the stresses and strains of busy working life.

Margot

Margot Chard

Travel Consultants

What our clients say

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97% of our clients rated their experience with us as Excellent or Good.

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“ The Atitlan trip was excellent.
”

JB, Surbiton | October 2012 | With Partner

“ Most memorable experience: “The wonderful atmosphere in Antigua and the breathtaking views of Lake Atitlan.”
”

RMH, Marlborough | July 2012 | 65 and over | Solo Traveller

Great

“

The Atitlan trip was excellent.

”

JB, Surbiton | June 2012

Loved it!

“

I loved seeing the tribal clothing and textiles and markets and scenery around Lake Atitlan.

”

CR, USA | June 2012

Highlight of the trip

“

So many memories, I think I have to say Lake Atitlán was the highlight.

”

KW, Hertford | June 2012

“ Highlights:- So many memories, I think I have to say Lake Atitlan. 
”

KW | April 2011 | 35 - 50 | With Friends

“ Most memorable experience: “I loved the hotels in Antigua, especially  loved seeing the tribal clothing and textiles and markets and scenery around Lake Atitlan”
”

CR, USA | January 0001

Tailor-made holiday

Speak to an expert Travel Consultant or send us your enquiry today.

Our specialists have been expertly crafting award-winning tailor-made holidays to Latin America for over 37 years.
We would be delighted to create a truly personalised trip which perfectly matches your wishes and requirements.

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97% of our clients rated their experience with us as Excellent or Good.

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