Lake Atitlán is a beautiful volcanic lake in the Western Highlands of Guatemala. The lake, 320 metres deep, is 19 km long and 10 km wide, with an area of 127.7 square km. It occupies a valley dammed by volcanic ash. Tz’utujil and Kaqchiquel Mayans have plied its shores for centuries and continue to wear vibrant ropa típica and practice age-old Mayan customs today, particularly in towns such as Santiago Atitlán and Santa Catarina Palopó. Panajachel is one of Atitlán’s main hubs and offers a comprehensive selection of hotels, restaurants, pharmacies, and shops. It also serves as a base for travelers looking to explore the lake’s other villages.

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The cascading pools of turquoise and emerald are often looked over in favor of the many other places worth venturing on the Guatemalan map, among them the ruins of Tikal, the colonial city of Antigua and the volcano-ringed Lake Atitlán. Semuc Champey means “where the river hides beneath the earth” in the Maya Qéqchi´ language. Aside from the stunningly beautiful waters and surroundings, what makes this spot special is the fact that these pools and waterfalls are actually a bridge of land (about 300m/984 ft. long) resting atop the raging Cahabón River. Tours to Semuc Champey from Guatemala City run about $35 for an all-day trip. Book at any local travel company.

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