Aldous Huxley, author of Brave New World, called Lake Atitlán “the most beautiful lake in the world,” and I must say it was definitely one of the most gorgeous that I’ve ever seen.
Of course, one should judge for oneself. And meanwhile, why now learn a little bit about the mysterious lake, how it was formed and the actual people who live near it…
What: Lake Atitlán–Large, Deep and Unique
The lake is approximately 12 miles long and perhaps 10 miles across at its widest point. It is the deepest Lake in Central America, with a maximum depth of 1,115 feet., according to most sources.
It is surrounded by three volcanoes on its southern end, and the surface of Lake Atitlan is approximately 5,125 feet above sea level. It is a large “endorheic” lake, meaning that it does not flow to the sea.
Where: Southwestern Guatemala
The lake is located in the southwestern part of the country, 50 kilometers (31 miles) west-northwest of Antigua.
How/When: Volcanic Explosion Thousands of Years Ago
According to some sources, Volcanic activity began in the Lake Atitlán area about 11-12 million years ago. A large caldera, a large crater resulting from a volcanic explosion or by collapse of a volcanic cone, formed in an major eruption 84,000 years ago. The lake fills part of it of the caldera.
Who: The Maya People
The lake is surrounded by a number of small villages, inhabited by predominantly Tz’utujil and Kakchiquel, modern-day Maya, who wear traditional clothing. They’re are known for their handcrafted products, including jewelry and clothing.
I don’t know which group the girls in the photos belong to, but I know there were many indigenous people who wore similar clothing.
Lake Atitlan, indigenous girls
Lake Atitlan, indigenous girls, up close
What Else?
“Atitlan” is a Mayan word, which means “the place where the rainbow gets its colors”.
Sadly, the lake is polluted with cianobacteria, much of it from untreated sewage flowing into the lake from local communities. A sewage treatment plant, destroyed by hurricane Stan, was never rebuilt.
Environmental groups and local residents and authorities have been working on a solution. I don’t know the current status of this, however.
Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
What do you think?
Been there?
Have you been to Lake Atitlán? What did you think? Where did you stay? Did you go an a shopping spree there? I did. 
Want to go?
If you’ve never been there, would you like to go?
Which photo/s do you like most?
Which photo of the lake/volcanoes do you prefer? The color or the black/white version? Or are you more of a people person and enjoy shots of the locals? I must say–I thought the girls were so beautiful.
(Note: All photos (c) L Egle, 2012)