Is Lake Atitlan Guatemala safe?
However, let me tell you this: as a young woman travelling independently in Guatemala, I felt very safe – especially on Lake Atitlan. Now, if you’re planning to spend time in Guatemala City, there are some serious safety precautions you should consider, as the capital is one of the most dangerous parts of the country.
Can you swim in Lake Atitlan Guatemala?
The Rules: Swimming in Lake Atitlan
There are no “rules” for swimming in Lake Atitlan – except don’t swim around the boat traffic, because you will piss the boat drivers off if they hit you. You are more than welcome to swim anywhere but do be aware of bacterial issues that Lake Atitlan faces.
Is Lake Atitlan worth visiting?
The truth is, that the lake with volcanoes nearby is so exceptional, it is worth to visit it even for a day. On the other hand, to get the most of the area, and of some of the best things the area has to offer, consider allocating at least two to three days near the lake.
Why is Guatemala so dangerous?
According to the US Department of State, Guatemala’s high murder rate is caused by four principal factors: an increase in drug trafficking; a growing prevalence of gang-related violence; a heavily armed civilian population; and a weak and incompetent police/judicial system.
Is Guatemala safe 2020?
Guatemala is not the safest country to visit. It has extremely high crime rates, of both violent and petty crime. You should be vigilant and take all possible precaution measures in order to minimize the risk of something wrong happening.
What is Lake Atitlan known for?
Geography. Lake Atitlán is a lake in Guatemala with a maximum depth of about 340 metres (1,120 ft) with an average depth of 220 metres (720 ft). Lake Atitlán is renowned as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, and is Guatemala’s most important national and international tourist attraction.
How far is Lake Atitlan from Antigua Guatemala?
How to Get from Antigua to Lake Atitlan. Just under 50 miles (80 km) from Antigua in the Sierra Madre highlands, lies Lake Atitlán, Central America’s deepest lake. There are different villages scattered around the lake, most of which are only accessible by lancha (small boats) or helicopter.
What is Guatemala known for?
Guatemala is best known for its volcanic landscape, fascinating Mayan culture and the colorful colonial city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But this small Central American country has a wealth of homegrown produce and talent.
What animals live in Lake Atitlan?
The surroundings of Lake Atitlán covers altitudes from 700 to 3500 m (2,300 – 11,500 ft), where most of the regional endemic bird species of the highlands of southern Mexico and northern Central America can be found, including Horned Guan, Highland Guan, White-bellied Chachalaca, Blue-throated Motmot, Slender Sheartail
How many days do you need at Lake Atitlan?
How long to spend at Lake Atitlan. I recommend spending at least 3-4 days and ideally a week. This will give you enough time to visit several of the villages, try all the things to do in Lake Atitlan, and relax.
How do you get around Lake Atitlan?
Lake Atitlan is cheap and relatively easy to get around. There are 4 main modes of public transport, boat, pickup truck, chicken bus or Tuk Tuk. Additionally, if you want to explore new towns and fancy a bit of freedom, you can always rent a motorcycle.
Is Antigua Guatemala safe?
Antigua Guatemala is known to be a ‘pretty safe‘ city within the Latin American backpacker trail, and while this is true, that doesn’t mean crime doesn’t occur. Muggings and pickpocketing happen more frequently than you might think, but if you keep your wits about you there’s no reason to feel wary.