Guatemala
and the introduction of ecotourism
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Photo:
Lake Atitlán by Jeff
P / CC BY 2.0
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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.
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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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. |
| 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.
top
Guatemala
Travel Guide
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