From Antigua to Lake Atitlan is a fairly easy travel day. The transportation from Antigua takes us to Panajachel, a town on the southern shore of what many call the most beautiful lake in the world. Three volcanoes dominate the skyline creating a sunset unlike anywhere else. Panajachel is a great place to stop for a meal before catching a water taxi to San Pedro la Laguna, a 30 minute ride across the water.
The market in Panajachel is loaded with fresh fruit and the street vendors are plentiful. Everything from tamales to fried chicken can be found. Or take a seat at one of the local restaurants for some authentic Guatemalan cuisine. Maybe try some fresh fish- it is a lake, after all.
The trip to San Pedro is between Q15 to Q20 per person, depending on how much you want to haggle. Remember that tourists are charged as tourists. It is easy to pay more than necessary without being informed of the standard fare.
The boat trip can be wonderfully smooth and quick, or choppy and slow depending on the weather and the time of day. It is remarkably beautiful either way. The shores of the lake are dotted with small huts or grand estates. There are a handful of towns and villages, but much of it remains undeveloped.
Finding budget lodging in San Pedro is a snap. There are many different hostels and budget hotels including Zoola, whose restaurant is widely popular among locals and tourists alike. The hostel can become busy during peak season but fortunately there are many other options. A cheap room with basic amenities and a private bathroom was just Q70 (US $9) a night for two people.
Good food is everywhere. Local women walk the blocks of San Pedro in the morning, selling freshly baked breads, pastries and fresh fruit. Local breakfasts are just Q15 (US $2) and include arguably the best coffee in the world.
The views from local bars and docks are breathtaking and the activities are endless. Horseback riding, hiking, even scuba diving can all be arranged with local guides. A hike to the top of Volcan de San Pedro is great for the active traveler who doesn’t mind breaking a serious sweat. The hike to the summit is roughly three hours and runs through various coffee and corn crops. The volcanic jungle becomes dense with vegetation and wildlife. Local farm workers carry one hundred pound packs of corn, wood, or coffee on down the steep slopes of the volcano- all while the load is strapped to their heads!
The number of things to see and do around Lake Atitlan is far too great for only a few day stop. One month is more appropriate. Vowing to return, we make arrangements to cross the border back in to Mexico for a trip to the beautiful city of San Cristobal de las Casas.
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