What to do in Panajachel

HIKING: Hiking to the small villages around the lake is one of the most rewarding experiences. Of course, not all of them can be reached on foot. Santa Catarina Palopo, a two hours' walk, offers a splendid view of the lake and volcanoes.

VOLCANO CLIMBING: Besides the hiking on the outskirts of the city, Pana has three volcanoes: San Lucas, Atitlán and San Pedro. Only Atitlán and San Pedro are worth climbing. Just remember that it requires at least a one day trip to climb each one. For serious Volcano climbers, to get pictures and detailed information, click here.

BIKING: There are several places to rent bicycles in Pana. Some are located on Calle Santander, the main street that takes you to the lake (you won't miss them). Just remember, in Guatemala people don't use helmets.

BY BOAT: You need to take a boat to visit the fallowing surrounding villages of the lake. The boat departs at the end of the Calle Santander, on the beach, just ask, everybody knows how to get there. To Santiago Atitlan it takes 1hr. and the fare is about two dollars. It leaves from the pier in front of Hotel Tzanjuyu at the end of the beach. To San Pedro it takes 1:10hr. fare about two to three dollars, and it is the same for San Marcos; travel time 50min. Santa Cruz recently has become popular; it is only a 20min. ride and the fare is about $2.00. Locals pay less

SCUBA DIVING: La Iguana Perdida (Tel: 762-119) is the only one located in Santa Cruz de la Laguna town, that offers this service. You need to be certified in order to enjoy this adventure and if you are not you still can have fun.

WINDSURFING: Guatemala has three great windsurfing spots: Lake Atitlán, Lake Izabal and Rio Dulce. The best season is from October through May, with November and December being the windiest months.

KAYAKING AND CANOEING: For more information, check with La Iguana Perdída in Santa Cruz de la Laguna town Tel: 762-119.

SHOPPING: This town is full of small shops on every corner. Many are set on the streets overnight. Here are some with unique handcrafts that you will enjoy: Casa Alegre at Santander Street Tel: 762-2066, El Guipil. Tel: 762-1366

ART GALLERIES: La Galeria is a contemporary Indian art gallery located one street off of Santander street at the end of the lake.

LEARN SPANISH :Travel can be much fun when you speak the language. We offer a Spanish School list for you to choose from.

PLACES OF INTEREST AROUND PANAJACHEL: There is also an ecological park "Buenaventura" as well as a butterfly farm inside Hotel Atitlan within walking distance. Also, all the towns around the lake make your trip a wonderful experience. Click here for the villages information.

TOURS: See list of recently tours and specials for Atitlan posted by several travel agencies.

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