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- Destinations
- South America
- Guatemala
- Lake Atitlán
Lake Atitlán
This shimmering volcanic lake surrounded by forested slopes and
three distinctive volcanoes has been hailed by some as the most
beautiful lake in the world. Not only is Lake Atitlán scenically
spectacular, the lake and hillside settlements are also rich in
Mayan culture.
Deeply cultural, some of these villages are the only ones in the
country where traditional costume is still worn, each village
sporting its own distinctive style and colour of densely
embroidered dress. The people are also famous for their artisan
crafts, and textiles are admired for their design and colour,
distinguishing one village from the other. The colours are all
blended in a flurry on market days when villagers from around the
lake gather to sell their products. The Friday market at Sololá is
one of the best in the highlands.
Around the lake are the main tourism centres of Panajachel and
San Pedro La Laguna with lots of accommodation, small restaurants
and craft shops. Santiago Atitlán is the biggest and most important
cultural village along the shore with an interesting local deity.
There are good hikes around the lake as well as various water
sports and excellent swimming.
Information & Facts
Language
The official language is Spanish but English is
understood in hotels and tourist destinations. Many indigenous
languages are also spoken.
Money
The official currency is the Quetzal (GTQ) divided into 100
centavos. In 2001 the US Dollar became the second official currency
alongside the Quetzal and both are accepted. Travellers cheques and
major credit cards are accepted, though some more than others. It
is recommended to take travellers cheques in US dollars. Cash
exchange is easier, but more risky. Visitors are not advised to
exchange money at the informal booths on the street. There are ATMs
in the towns and cities, which accept American Express and Visa.
MasterCard and Diners Club have a more limited acceptance.