Guatemala and the introduction of ecotourism
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Photo: Lake Atitlán by Jeff
P / CC BY 2.0
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Guatemala
Travel Guide - Home
Costa Rica started the
ecotourism trend back in the 1990s and is definitely leading in that
sphere, and now Guatemala is trying to catch up to its near neighbor by
taking up the popular trend. Up until now, Guatemala has focused on its
indigenous culture, including its Mayan ruins, and the more recent colonial
architecture on view in its cities. However, with all that green and lovely
nature in the country, it only makes sense for Guatemala to look to the
ecotourism industry, not only to protect its environment but also to
attract more visitors each year.
For
those who love to spend time in nature, with beautiful landscapes, rather
than cityscapes, eco-lodges are the best option. If you are planning a tour
of Guatemala, bear in mind that the country offers a range of
eco-lodges in the country’s best natural areas, allowing guests to
fall asleep surrounded by the sound of the jungle, waking up after a good
night’s sleep to the sound of twittering birds.
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Most eco-lodges are set in
remote areas of Guatemala, offering everything a visitor could need,
including their meals and activities such as bird watching, biking and
hiking in the area. In most cases, meals are cooked with organic and
healthy ingredients and accommodations, while basic and charming, are
built using local products. The following are some of the best locations
to enjoy a trip out into nature.
Visit Lake Atitlán
One of the best locations is
Lake Atitlán, where the town of Panajachel offers a range of comfortable,
eco-accommodation in a beautiful location, surrounded by mountains and
volcanoes, and overlooking the clear water of the lake. Activities
available for visitors include hiking, swimming, kayaking and zip lining
and the town offers a good range of restaurants, bars and shops.
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Photo: Lake Atitlán by/ CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
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Santa Cruz La Laguna is also set on the
shores of Lake Atitlán, west of Panajachel. Santa Cruz is
accessible only by boat, making it an unspoiled destination, hugged by lush
green forests and right on the lake. While most of the hotels and other
facilities are close to the water, the original Maya village is set back
from the lake, making for a comfortable inland hike.
The town
itself has only one road, which keeps the atmosphere tranquil and slow.
While there isn’t much to see in town, there is still plenty to do,
with several lakeside trails to hike, swimming in the lake or just relaxing
with a book. The town does have a dive shop, offering fun dives and
certification courses.
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Take in Lake Petén Itzá
Lake Petén Itzá is Guatemala’s
second biggest lake, set in tranquil and beautiful surroundings. There
are several towns located right on the lake, including San Andrés, San
José and El Remate, all of which are great for relaxing, swimming and
getting close to nature.
El
Remate is also close to Biotopo Cerro Cahuí, a great location for hiking
and bird watching. Along the lakeside, several excellent eco-lodges can
be found, offering great food and a relaxed vibe.
Head to Cobán in the Western
Highlands of Guatemala
While Cobán itself has little
to offer, the town is set in remarkable surroundings, including hillsides
covered with forests, interspersed with coffee farms.
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Photo: Lake Petén Itzá by Bernard Dupont CC BY-SA 2.0
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This gives
the opportunity to choose from a range of locations to go hiking, bird
watching and touring. There are also a number of other attractions in the
area, including the Laguín caves and the limestone pools at Semuc Champey.
Take time
out to visit the ecological side of Guatemala – a sustainable and
relaxing way to spend your holiday or vacation.
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Guatemala Travel
Guide
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