– photo by Anderson De Mata
The deepest lake in Central America – Lake Atitlan is surrounded by volcanoes and mountains. Nestled between the verdant slopes of San Pedro volcano and the enchanting Lake Atitlan, lies the town of San Pedro La Laguna – home to the local Mayan population and a mix of expats and international backpackers.
The lower, lakeside area of San Pedro is a maze of confusing lanes and alleyways where the majority of the town’s bars, cafes and hostels are located. The upper part of the town is home to the more traditional Maya area, with a local market, church, and town centre.
Indian Nose or La Nariz de Indio is the most famous of the hills surrounding the lake near San Pedro La Laguna. It is a series of prominent hillocks that resemble the profile of a sleeping Mayan when seen from across the lake. The viewpoint on its peak gives a spectacular vista over the lake and its surrounding volcanoes, especially at sunrise. If you are up for something more challenging and with even better views, hike the San Pedro Volcano, which takes around 3 – 5 hours each way.
