Family Overview—Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
by Candyce H. Stapen, Away.com, August 28, 2007 to current

One of Guatemala’s largest lakes, Lake Atitlán, situated in the Solola District, ranks as one of the world’s most scenic locales. The misty blue water unfolds against a backdrop of three 10,000-foot volcanoes - Toliman, Atitlán and San Pedro. Created by a massive volcanic eruption 85,000 years ago, the lake, about a 2 ½-hour drive from Guatemala City or Antigua, stretches 12 miles long and six miles wide with depths reaching 1000-feet.

Maya villages ring the azure lake, situated in Guatemala’s Highlands. After Hurricane Stan in October 2005, mudslides in this region destroyed several Maya settlements; however, villages affected including Panajachel, the lake’s largest town and the main gateway, have been fixed up since the disaster.

Tip: When exploring the Lake Atitlán, be sure to go with a reputable guide.

Lake Atitlán Highlights
*Glimpse hundreds of butterflies at the nature reserve
*Take a boat trip across the lake, with views of three volcanoes.
*Visit the Maya towns on the shore
*Watch a Maya prayer ceremony and learn about Maximón
*Let your kids join in a soccer game

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