Sep 18 my family and I took off for Lake Atitlan, specifically the town of Panajachel - sometimes called "Gringo-tenango" due to the number of American tourists here. The town became a hippy hangout in the 60´s and 70´s and is still famous for drugs and partying but also the most touristed town in all of Guatemala. The lake itself is surrounded by dormant volcanoes and mountains and is said to be one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. It was formed 85,000 years ago when a massive volcanic eruption threw ash as far as Florida and Panama. So much lava came out from under the earth that it left a huge void under the surface. Eventually, the surface could no longer support itself and collapsed to form a huge hole that filled with water forming the lake. Average water depth is 1000 feet!
This dramatic region runs from Antigua to the Mexican border-the hills are full of emerald green grass, cornfields and pines..and every village has a story. According to Quiche legend, Lake Atitlan was one of the four lakes that marked the corners of the world. Reminds us of the saying that even though we know the world is round, we are trying to visit all four corners! LOL.
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