Panajachel: Portal to an Indigenous World

Spectacular view of Lake Atitlan...

Panajachel is situated in the Guatemalan highlands, offering a spectacular view of not only 3 towering volcanoes, but also Lake Atitlan, described as the most beautiful lake in the world by Aldous Huxley. It was first inhabited by the Spanish in the late 1500's after a long and bloody battle was waged on the shores of Lake Atitlan. On the one side were the Spanish and their Cakchiquel allies, on the other the Tzutuhils. Soon after the warring was over, a church and monastery were erected in Panajachel and the town became a religious center, intent on converting the native peoples to the Roman Catholic faith. The same church is still standing there today.

The local scenery is awe inspiring. At night, if you stand outside gazing beyond the peaks of the three gargantuan volcanoes (San Pedro, Toliman and Atitlan), you'll be almost sure to witness Mother Nature's stunning display of lightening crashing through the sky. There's another fourth volcano not too far away, on the south side of Lake Atitlan with a rich and dangerous history. For, once upon a time, a Mayan fortress stood defiantly in the confines of Cerro de Oro's crater.

A Rich, Indigenous History...

Long before the Spanish conquistadors arrived, and well after Guatemala became its own sovereign nation, Panajachel was populated by Mayans and other indigenous people. Although their numbers have dwindled across the ages, they have still managed to stave off assimilation, and many of them still possess a culture and a craft similar to the ones of old.

Inside of Panajachel, you can find many of the native peoples set up in local market stalls, peddling amazing fabrics, intricate handicrafts and little pieces of an ancient history.

In fact, Panajachel - known as the portal to Lake Atitlan - is also known as the portal to an indigenous world. For across the lake, secluded and far away, small villages of the native peoples still survive, and they still live their lives in much the same way now as they did centuries ago. There are about a dozen of these villages to explore, but three of them attract more visitors than the others - Santiago Atitlan, Santa Catarina Palopo and San Antonio Palopo. Each of these three villages is famous for their local women weavers and their home-spun costume and garb.

Panajachel Proper...

But you don't have to venture across Lake Atitlan to have a good time in Panajachel: you just have to leave your hotel. You can rent a motorcycle, car or bike and set out to explore the countryside on your own. Or, you can hire a tour guide to learn about some of the lesser known sights, attractions and local history. Even some of the local hotels and resorts offer their visitors special trips and tours and chances to discover unique national landmarks and treasures.

Scuba Diving

Lake Atitlan, with its deep sapphire water and crystal clear visibility is also a popular scuba diving destination. If you don't have your gear with you, or you need scuba diving lessons, don't worry there's a local scuba shop there to set you up with everything you need.

Shopping

Or, if you'd prefer to spend your time on land, Panajachel has some really wonderful shopping opportunities. The city is freckled with markets and vendors, boutiques and stalls, each brimming over with beautiful souvenirs and local craftsmanship.

Dining

Once you've finished exploring, diving or shopping, the chances are that you'll have worked up a ravenous appetite. And if you're looking for good food, then you've certainly come to the right place. Panajachel is practically famous for its small restaurants and cafes complete with delectable dishes and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Inside the city, you can find anything from exotic international dishes, delicious local cuisine - there's even a local vegetarian café.

Learn the Language...

What better way to immerse yourself in the culture of Guatemala and Central America than to spend you time learning the local language, Spanish? Panajachel offers several Spanish schools, including the city's only Mayan owned and operated Spanish school. These aren't your everyday schools either. Here, you'll find one-on-one intensive language classes featuring impressive and quick learning as well as affordable prices. At only $60-$100USD a week (plus $50 if you opt to live with a local host family) you'll be speaking Spanish, almost fluently, in no time at all.

Whether you're looking for exploration, education or epicurean delights, you're sure to find all of that - and more - in the idyllic setting of Panajachel.