San Pedro la Laguna is a village on the shores of Lake Atitlan in Guatamala (Known as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world) While Lake Atitlan is recognized to be the deepest lake in Central America, its bottom has not been completely sounded. Estimates of its maximum depth range up to 340 meters. It is claimed to be one of the worlds' energy vortexes, alongside the great pyramids and Macchu Picchu.
The village San Pedro has a resident population of approximately 13,000, primarily of Tzutujil Mayan descent.
Overview:
San Pedro la Laguna in Guatamala with it's life-changing natural beauty, is cradled between dream-lake Lago de Atitlan, the San Pedro volcano and craggy forested cliffs. San Pedro la Laguna is the perfect place for a Yoga Retreat and for enjoying a bounty of other Guatemala attractions.
San Pedro is much less touristy than Panachel, a fact that appeals to San Pedro’s international backpacker community. There are less souvenir shops, and more Spanish schools. The tranquil lakefront settling is definitely conducive for doing yoga and having a good meditation session!
What to do:
San Pedro la Laguna might be modest in size, but due to its otherworldly setting and substantial community of international backpackers, there’s no lack of things to do.
- Soak in San Pedro’s thermal pools: The thermal pools in San Pedro la Laguna are a particularly unique attraction. For just $2.50 US, relax in soothing volcano-fed pools and dine on inexpensive organic cuisine.
- Explore Lake Atitlan: Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle into the blue expanse, or join the San Pedro la Laguna locals and jump off the dock for a swim.
- Hike the San Pedro volcano: The journey up the 3020-meter Volcán San Pedro is about four hours. You can also choose to ride horses part of the way. Whatever you do, take a guide: robberies have been reported on the volcano trails.
- Visit other villages: There are numerous other Mayan villages ringing Lake Atitlan, some well-traveled (Panachel Santiago Atitlan), some less so (Santa Catarina, San Pablo, San Juan).
- Weaving: Make a tradition guatemalan rug as a souvenir to take home
- Shopping: There is plently of shopping to do in Panachel across the water at the traditional market Places.
- Massage: which is included in your package, at the spiritual village of San Marcus in the next village.
Getting there and around:
Everything in San Pedro la Laguna is within walking distance. Once you arrive at the main dock in San Pedro la Laguna, you can go right, left, or uphill. Right takes you to scenic San Pedro restaurants Restaurante al Meson and Restaurante Valle Azul (part of Hotel Valle Azul). Left takes you on a winding path past modest hotels, restaurants, and the San Pedro thermal baths, eventually culminating at the Santiago dock. If you head straight uphill – and if you’re out of shape, be prepared for aching calf muscles – you’ll reach the town market.
Tips and Practicalities
Like those in Panajachel, San Pedro la Laguna restaurants reflect the village’s melting pot of cultures. Enjoy everything from organic vegan food to Asian food to indigenous Guatemalan. Try Nick’s Place beside the main dock, or the Buddha , a three-story quintessential backpacker hangout with hookah, pool, and free movie screenings.
The Banrural Bank in the center of town will exchange traveler’s checks.
It’s worth re-stating: if you plan on hiking up the San Pedro volcano, or trekking the trails around the lake, travel in a group and bring a guide. Robberies have been reported numerous times on these remote trails.
Fun Fact:
San Pedro la Laguna is well-known for its society of ex-patriates. Americans, Europeans and other foreigners have been migrating to the Lake Atitlan village for decades, falling in love, and refusing to leave this beautiful village.
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