The Jewel of the Highlands: Lake Atitlán

• HelloJi'
  [hee]
• GoodbyeXaqa'e
  [shack-eye]
• YesE'
  [eh]
• NoMan
  [mahn]
• Please/You're welcomeTz'ikin
  [tzee-keen]
• Thank youMatyox
  [mah-chohsh]
• Excuse me/SorrySaqarik
  [sah-kah-reek]
• How are you?La q'ij
  [lah kee]
• Fine. And you?Ta q'an
  [tah kahn]
• Do you speak English?Xkanajik ri inglés?
  [shkah-nah-heek ree een-gless]
• I don't understandMan utz
  [mahn oots]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChamoq' u suq'il, xk'amkaj
  [chah-mohk oo sookeel, shkahm-kahkh]
• I don't eat meatKo xin wach
  [koh sheen wahch]
• Cheers!Chin ch'in
  [cheen cheen]
• I would like to pay, pleaseChamoq' u chik', xk'amkaj
  [chah-mohk oo cheek, shkahm-kahkh]

• Help!Awa'
  [ah-wah]
• Go away!Ch'ut
  [choot]
• Call the Police!Xtzijik ri Policia!
  [shkee-heek ree poh-lees-eeah]
• Call a doctor!Xtzijik ri tataq' q'ij
  [shkee-heek ree tah-tahk kee]
• I'm lostManik xtinamit
  [mahn-eek shtee-nah-meet]
• I'm illManik wach
  [mahn-eek wahch]

• I'd like to buy...Chamoq' u k'etzal...
  [chah-mohk oo kaytzahl]
• I'm just lookingXin chik
  [sheen cheek]
• How much is it?Ji' xk'aslemal?
  [hee shkah-sleh-mahl]
• That's too expensiveK'aslemalaj
  [kah-sleh-mahl-ahkh]
• Can you lower the price?Xk'aslemalaj rutz'qij?
  [shkah-sleh-mahl-ahkh roots-kee]

• What time is it?Ji' xaqa
  [hee shack-ah]
• It's one o'clockXaqa' jun
  [shack-ah hoon]
• Half past (10)Jun ajaw (oje)
  [hoon ah-hahw (oh-heh)]
• MorningQ'ij
  [kee]
• AfternoonQ'ara
  [kah-rah]
• EveningQ'ab'äl
  [kahb-ahl]
• YesterdayXaqa' iximulew
  [shack-ah ees-ee-moo-leh-oo]
• TodayXaqa'
  [shack-ah]
• TomorrowXaqa' iximulew
  [shack-ah ees-ee-moo-leh-oo]
• 1Jun
  [hoon]
• 2Kab'lajun
  [kahb-lah-hoon]
• 3Oxlahun
  [oh-shlah-hoon]
• 4Kajun
  [kah-hoon]
• 5Junajun
  [hoon-ah-hoon]
• 6Wajxaq
  [wah-shack]
• 7Waqxaq
  [wahk-shack]
• 8B'elxaq
  [bel-shack]
• 9B'ajxq'ij
  [bahsh-kee]
• 10Jun ajaw
  [hoon ah-hahw]

• Where's a/the...?Ji' u...
  [hee oo]
• What's the address?Ji' q'ijilajab'?
  [hee kee-hee-lah-hahb]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Xtzijik ri tz'ib'aj?
  [shkee-heek ree tzeeb-ahkh]
• When's the next (bus)?Ji' wa kitz'ojil (tz'ibal)?
  [hee wah keetz-oh-hil tzee-bahl]
• A ticket (to ....)U q'alaj (atz'in...)
  [oo kah-lahkh aht-seen]

Lake Atitlán has been inhabited since pre-Columbian times by the Maya people. The lake’s surrounding villages, such as San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlán, were significant sites for the Tz'utujil and Kaqchikel Maya civilizations. These groups thrived on agriculture, fishing, and trade, leveraging the fertile volcanic soil and the lake’s resources.

In the early 16th century, Spanish Conquistadors led by Pedro de Alvarado arrived in the region. The conquest brought dramatic changes to the indigenous way of life. Many Maya were converted to Christianity, and Spanish colonial architecture began to appear, blending with traditional Maya structures.

One of the most cherished local legends is the story of Xocomil, a powerful wind that sweeps across the lake. According to tradition, it is the spirit of a Maya warrior who drowned in the lake. This legend underscores the deep connection between the local people and the natural forces of the lake.

The Tzutujil and Kaqchikel Maya communities maintain a rich cultural heritage around Lake Atitlán. Traditional weaving, ceramics, and music are integral parts of daily life. The famous textiles, often adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colors, tell stories of the people’s history and cosmology.

Father Stanley Rother, an American priest, became a significant figure in Santiago Atitlán during the Guatemalan Civil War. He worked to support the indigenous communities and was martyred in 1981. His legacy is a testament to the resilience and faith of the local people during a time of great strife.

In the 20th and 21st centuries, Lake Atitlán has transformed into a popular tourist destination. The towns around the lake, like Panajachel and San Pedro La Laguna, have developed infrastructure to accommodate travelers. This has brought economic benefits but also challenges in preserving the area’s natural beauty and cultural integrity.

Lake Atitlán is located in the highlands of Guatemala. The nearest major international airport is La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, around 120 kilometers away. From Guatemala City, you can take a shuttle, private car, or chicken bus to Panajachel, the main gateway town to Lake Atitlán. The journey typically takes 3 to 4 hours by road. Alternatively, you can hire a private driver for a more comfortable and direct route.

Once you're at Lake Atitlán, boats are the primary mode of transportation between the lakeside towns. Public boats (lanchas) run frequently and are affordable. Tuk-tuks and taxis are available within the towns for shorter trips. Renting a scooter or bike is also an option for exploring the area. For those who prefer a more structured itinerary, guided tours are available.

The official currency in Guatemala is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller towns and markets. ATMs are available in Panajachel and other major towns around the lake, but ensure you have enough cash before heading to more remote areas.

Lake Atitlán is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in secluded areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings. Some areas, like parts of San Pedro La Laguna and Santiago Atitlán, have higher crime rates targeting tourists; it's best to stay vigilant and avoid these areas at night.

In case of emergency, dial 110 for police or 120 for an ambulance. The main medical facilities are located in Panajachel, with smaller clinics in other towns. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in most towns for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting indigenous communities. Avoid wearing very revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Always ask for permission before entering a church or taking photos of religious ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be patient when using public transport, as it can be crowded. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and say 'Buenos días' (Good morning) or 'Buenas tardes' (Good afternoon). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Lake Atitlán like a local, visit the markets in towns like Panajachel and Santiago Atitlán where you can buy fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insights about their culture and history. Don't miss the opportunity to hike the Indian Nose for a breathtaking sunrise view of the lake. For a unique cultural experience, participate in a traditional Mayan ceremony.