Panajachel - The most beautiful lake in the world

Trip Start Sep 09, 2008
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Trip End Aug 17, 2009


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Where I stayed
Casa Linda
(Panajachel hotels)

Flag of Guatemala  , Western Highlands,
Monday, October 27, 2008

The most beautiful lake in the world, according to a old English explorer. After arriving on Monday evening I can see why he thought that. Lago de Atitlan is in the western highlands of Guatemala, nestled between mountains and three dormant volcanoes.We arrived in Panajachel with the intention of staying a few nights and then boat hopping to some of the other villages that surround the lake. Panajachel is the most built up, touristy, of all, boasting many bars and restaurants. After sorting out a place to stay we all headed down to the lake itself and were amazed by itīs instant beauty. Walking down a small cobbled road we spied the water and then as we drew nearer three huge volcanoes presented themselves to us. Neither me or Mish had ever seen a volcano, in the flesh, so it was a breathtaking moment. Apart from the three huge cones poking out of the ground, the lake is contained within a huge mountain range. When the sun sets here it becomes even more of a special place. My pictures will not do it justice.
One afternoon we took a boat trip to a part of the lake where water heated underground escapes at the surface and runs into the lake, creating warm pools. The lake itself isnīt cold but when we swam near these thermal vents the water took on more of a jacuzzi feel. To my astonishment there were no locals here at all. Maybe the novelty wore off long ago for them... That evening we went to watch some local people perform their traditional Mayan music and it was nice to see these teenagers carrying on their family traditions. Even the smallest of children were there tapping away at drums. Great night.
Panajachel, as a town, isnīt anything new and like many places I have visited previously. The lake itself, however, is fantastic and so, like I have already said, we will take a boat in the next day or two and explore some of the other villages littered along the lakes edge.

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