Adventure seekers crave fast-paced fun mixed with dazzling beauty and a hint of danger. Lake Atitlán in Guatemala deserves a place on the adventurers’ list. Possibly one of the most beautiful freshwater bodies in the world, the lake exists because of a natural disaster long ago. The hidden danger: The lake fills a huge caldera formed by one of the most spectacular volcanic explosions on Earth, and the region remains volcanically active. Many adventure seekers put an active volcano on their list. If you do, enjoy the greatest danger of seeing three active volcanoes from your lake-view hotel in a landscape atop a super volcano (like the one in Yellowstone Park).
Guatemala designated the Lake District as a National Park to preserve the country’s natural beauty and encourage tourism. Experience your national treasure of volcanoes, a lake, and wildlife, but don’t stop there. Meet the Mayans! Yes, I said the Mayans, the original peoples that were part of the Mayan empire and culture that were “conquered” by the Spanish Empire between 1511 and 1697. Conquered means the end of the empire, not the end of the Mayan culture, which still exists. because you will live in small towns like the ones next to Lake Atitlán. Freshwater divers can organize a dive in the ancient Mayan villages under the lake.
When considering planning a combination of sights, hiking, diving, dining, wildlife, and experiencing the Mayan culture of people, languages, food, and traditions, don’t overlook danger. Take precautions to avoid or minimize the effects of theft, a greater risk than volcanic activity. Leave your expensive jewelry and any other possessions you will miss at home. Any poor society contains an obscure minority element that will take advantage of, rather than support, the tourism industry. Be careful traveling in large groups, especially by land from the airport to the Lake Atitlán region. A ground transportation provided by the government or the hotel with security on board should ensure your safety. Once in the lake region, the local Tuk-Tuks (automobile rickshaws) should be fine to take you beyond walking distance. Enjoy your adventure!