Panajachel is a Guatemalan town located in the department of Sololá, which is ruled as one of the corners to be explored by the most adventurous. In the Mesoamerican plateau, and on the shores of the imposing Lake Atitlán, Panajachel rises more than 1,500 meters above sea level, celebrating the intersection of Central American cultures with European traditions from the times of the Conquest.
Panajachel promises unparalleled fun for those who dare to explore its natural corners, such as the port of Tzanjuyu, or also, to be dazzled by the Franciscan festivities that honor their patron saint, Saint Francis of Assisi, during the first week of every October. A tourist center stopped in time that managed to flourish into the 21st century, Panajachel currently has various lodging and recreation options that you will be able to discover below.
Archaeologist Alfred Maudslay visited Panajachel in 1892, marveling at the geographical jewel that the Guatemalan highlands sheltered. “Situated on a plain formed by a rapid stream that emerges from a narrow groove in the mountains, and has divided the land in the shape of an open fan about a mile long until it reaches the shore of Lake Atitlán” part of the description that Maudslay gave to Panajachel in his book «A look at Guatemala».
A town divided between Lake Atitlán and the volcanic mountain ranges, the local population of Panajachel had as raw material the cultivation of various foods and natural fruits. These practices are maintained today, resulting in a representative image of the measured benefit that can be had from Mother Earth.
In the local market, located in the central street called Santander, you can find another of the deep-rooted practices, artisan weaving. Mantles of colorful tones that you can see arranged next to the creative hands of the weavers of Panajachel. In addition, the wonder of craftsmanship is also reflected in the display of different decorative objects that they have to offer.
For nature lovers, enjoying Panajachel represents something more than an unknown corner where you can marvel at the original artistic expressions. Leaving by boat from the Tzanjuyú port, it is possible to visit other small towns that surround Atitlán, at the same time that an exploration walk is enough to get to know the wonderful natural reserve of Panajachel.
Open from ten in the morning until five in the afternoonthe Panajachel Reserve has tropical vegetation, graced by several waterfalls. In turn, the radical geography allows hiking along its 8 paths. With platforms arranged for the enjoyment of the natural panoramain the Panajachel reserve live different species of monkeys, birds, and even a refuge for countless butterflies. The tour must end with the use of the zip lines to then rest on the artificial beach. arranged in the reserve, which configures a ride with fun without measure.