Panajachel is located at the shores of Lake Atitlan, in the western highlands. The lake is surrounded by the volcanoes Atitlan, San Pedro and Toliman. The entire area of Atitlan (meaning place of great water) is actually inside a crater formed by a volcanic eruption, accounting for the lakes incredible depth of more than 900 feet. Though a popular destination during the dry season, Lake Atitlan offers a lush topical beauty during the rainy season. There are a number of activities you can do here, Hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, village site excursions, paragliding and water sports.
Panajachel is the most visited place in the area, visited by tourists of all nationalities; it’s without a doubt a very bohemian place but it offers amenities not easily found elsewhere. It is an international meeting place with restaurants, hotels, movie houses, fax and email services, and convenient travel and tour agencies set alongside colorfully dressed indigenous men and women working their crafts.
The titular festival is in honor of San Francisco de Asis, held from October 1 trough 7, featuring traditional dances, spectacular processions and fireworks.
On of the “Must See” for all visitors is the “Reserva Natural Nima’ya de Atitlan” to the west of town. Often referred to as the “Butterfly farm”, this 400 acre reserve offers catamaran sailing around the lake.
To reach the surrounding villages, two public docks in town provide ferry services. The drive around the lake offers breath taking views.
Panajachel is the most visited place in the area, visited by tourists of all nationalities; it’s without a doubt a very bohemian place but it offers amenities not easily found elsewhere. It is an international meeting place with restaurants, hotels, movie houses, fax and email services, and convenient travel and tour agencies set alongside colorfully dressed indigenous men and women working their crafts.
The titular festival is in honor of San Francisco de Asis, held from October 1 trough 7, featuring traditional dances, spectacular processions and fireworks.
On of the “Must See” for all visitors is the “Reserva Natural Nima’ya de Atitlan” to the west of town. Often referred to as the “Butterfly farm”, this 400 acre reserve offers catamaran sailing around the lake.
To reach the surrounding villages, two public docks in town provide ferry services. The drive around the lake offers breath taking views.
The next link gives you a view of a street in Panajachel.
This link shows the lake and volcanoes.
