Lake Atitlán
Described by Aldous Huxley as “too much of a good thing”, Lake Atitlán in the Guatemalan Highlands is a stunning spot to while away a few days or even weeks.
So weave it into a Central American adventure, or drop in direct to hike, bike, kayak and swim, or just embrace your inner hippie and go with the mystical flow. Get a fast quote from Air Charter Service to charter a private aircraft for the trip.
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Formed in the caldera of an ancient volcano, Lake Atitlán sits high in the Sierra Madre mountain range – the backbone of Central America. As well as being the deepest lake in the region, it’s also one of the most beautiful, with three dramatic volcanoes rising from its shores.
Far from being just one location though, Lake Atitlán is home to several Mayan villages, which cling to the water’s edge and ramble up steep slopes towards the hills. Each has its own distinct feel, so make sure you allow enough time to visit a few and find your favourite.
The simplest starting point is Panajachel – known locally as Pana – a buzzing, well-developed town with plenty of souvenir-shopping opportunities, excellent local coffee shops and cuisine from every corner of the globe. It’s a good place to adjust and ease yourself into the local way of life.
A short hop by lancha (one of the local taxi boats) will take you to nearby Santa Cruz. It might be a steep stroll, but if you’ve got the stamina, the walk to the top of the village is well worth it for the view. Santa Cruz is also home to the only PADI dive centre on the lake, from where you can explore everything from underwater volcanic vents to submerged houses, docks and even the lower levels of a lakeside hotel.
A hike through coffee plantations and the small village of Jaibalito will bring you to San Marcos, a favourite with the hippie set. Stock up on crystals or have your chakras aligned, then stop off and watch the world – and the wildlife – go by at the Cerro Tzankujil nature reserve.
If local craft and culture calls, a stop at San Juan is a must. This friendly, colourful town is home to a collective run by local Mayan woman, who’ll happily share their weaving skills. Again, hop on a lancha for the short trip from San Marcos.
For hikers, San Pedro is the place to be. The 3,020 metre-high Volcán San Pedro offers sensational views over the lake, while those taking on the pre-dawn walk to the top of Indian Nose will be rewarded with a sunrise like no other. Back in town, there are foodie favourites from around the world so it’s well worth working up an appetite.
To start your Central American adventure, contact our team and we’ll arrange everything you need to charter a private aircraft to Santa Cruz del Quiché, Quezaltenango or Santiago Atitlán.
So weave it into a Central American adventure, or drop in direct to hike, bike, kayak and swim, or just embrace your inner hippie and go with the mystical flow. Get a fast quote from Air Charter Service to charter a private aircraft for the trip.
- - - - - - - - - -
Formed in the caldera of an ancient volcano, Lake Atitlán sits high in the Sierra Madre mountain range – the backbone of Central America. As well as being the deepest lake in the region, it’s also one of the most beautiful, with three dramatic volcanoes rising from its shores.
Far from being just one location though, Lake Atitlán is home to several Mayan villages, which cling to the water’s edge and ramble up steep slopes towards the hills. Each has its own distinct feel, so make sure you allow enough time to visit a few and find your favourite.
The simplest starting point is Panajachel – known locally as Pana – a buzzing, well-developed town with plenty of souvenir-shopping opportunities, excellent local coffee shops and cuisine from every corner of the globe. It’s a good place to adjust and ease yourself into the local way of life.
A short hop by lancha (one of the local taxi boats) will take you to nearby Santa Cruz. It might be a steep stroll, but if you’ve got the stamina, the walk to the top of the village is well worth it for the view. Santa Cruz is also home to the only PADI dive centre on the lake, from where you can explore everything from underwater volcanic vents to submerged houses, docks and even the lower levels of a lakeside hotel.
A hike through coffee plantations and the small village of Jaibalito will bring you to San Marcos, a favourite with the hippie set. Stock up on crystals or have your chakras aligned, then stop off and watch the world – and the wildlife – go by at the Cerro Tzankujil nature reserve.
If local craft and culture calls, a stop at San Juan is a must. This friendly, colourful town is home to a collective run by local Mayan woman, who’ll happily share their weaving skills. Again, hop on a lancha for the short trip from San Marcos.
For hikers, San Pedro is the place to be. The 3,020 metre-high Volcán San Pedro offers sensational views over the lake, while those taking on the pre-dawn walk to the top of Indian Nose will be rewarded with a sunrise like no other. Back in town, there are foodie favourites from around the world so it’s well worth working up an appetite.
To start your Central American adventure, contact our team and we’ll arrange everything you need to charter a private aircraft to Santa Cruz del Quiché, Quezaltenango or Santiago Atitlán.
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