21 Reasons to Visit Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

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About 21 Reasons To Visit Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Deep blue peaceful waters surrounded by dormant volcanos converge to create a very special place steeped in tradition with a relaxed way of life in the towns dotted around Lake Atitlan. Maybe it is because everyone calms as soon as they board a launcha, one of the local boats that take you from place to place. Knowing their town of destination is some time away and they can relax and enjoy the ride, it is the perfect way to get around.There is a peace here, at ‘The Lake’ as everyone in Guatemala calls it. There is no need for explanation or even to use its name, everyone knows the lake, and everyone loves it. Sure, there are other lakes in Guatemala, but Lake Atitlan is ‘the lake’, the one that draws people to its azure tranquility by the thousands each year. Its peace radiates throughout the surrounding countryside making it one of Guatemala’s top attractions. A must-see destination in this vast country of beautiful pristine natural places.Full of colorful little towns dotted around just waiting to be explored, it’s deep blue depths draw thousands of people every year who delight in boarding a launcha to get to their village of choice. Some come to experience culture, some for the art, others for adventure, and still others drawn to the lakes magic for relaxation, healing and yoga. Whatever your interests there is a town that is just right for you. San Juan is the place to go to art. Santiago is the town for textiles, culture and the all-important devilish god Maximón. A Guatemalan treasure all his own.San Pedro is for the adrenaline junkies and partiers where they hike, bike, raft and do all those adventurous things before returning to the nightlife in one of the many bars and restaurants. It’s polar opposite, just across on an adjacent launcha ride is the peaceful San Marcos where you find yoga retreats, relaxation, massages and natural remedies. Some call it the hippy town of the lake, I call it a heavenly relaxed