Panajachel

Panajachel is nestled in the highlands of Guatemala at an altitude of 5,240 feet (1,500m). Located on the shores of Lake Atitlan Panajachel is the gateway to access the other towns along the shores of lake Atitaln by boats. Panajachel has a population of approximately 11,000 people. Panajachel is a mixture of local Guatemalans and foreigners from around the world. The town has a range of hotels, from backpacker dives and boutique hotels, to luxury hotels with beautiful gardens and pools. Bars and restaurants line the streets along with handcrafted Guatemalan souvenir shops carrying a variety of products from wood carved masks and beaded jewelry to paintings and weavings. Daytime activities include Paragliding, Zip Lining, Kayaking, Dirtbiking, Wakeboarding, Scuba Diving, Swimming and Hiking. Other less physical activities are the extensive meditation, massage, art, cooking and spiritual healing classes that can be found around the shores of Lake Atitlan.