Lake Atitlan area

By Christopher Minster

The Lake Atitlán area comprises the provinces of Chimaltenango and Sololá (which is where the lake is). The area is mountainous, beautiful and rugged. The vast majority of the inhabitants are indigenous, with the Quiché and Kakchiquel people being the most numerous.

Chimaltenango province does not have much to offer the traveler, but history buffs will not want to miss the ruins at Iximché and Mixco Viejo. The city of Chimaltenango is a medium-sized provincial capital with an interesting castle which serves as the government building but little else of interest.

Sololá province is home to the famous, stunningly beautiful Lake Atitlán. The lake itself is ringed by several small towns and communities, the most noteworthy of which are Panajachel, Santiago Atitlán, San Pedro and San Marcos. The city of Sololá is also worth a stop as you head down to the lake.