Picture of Guatemala
Caption: Guatemala's Western Highlands A 3 day hike from Xela to Lake Atitlan
Caption: I did a 3 day hike from Xela to Lake Atitlan. I covered 41km with a 25lb backpack on. It was physically and mentally challenging, but completely worth it. I did the tour with Quetzaltrekkers, who were amazing. I ended my tour at Isla Verde for a 'treat yourself' package, and that I did.
The lake is as beautiful as everyone says
Caption: The hike from Xela to the Lake covered valleys, walks through pueblos and climbs up steep hills that lead you to beautiful vistas.
Along the hike we were fed well and stopped for ice cream and coffee. Every night we drank chocolate caliente and I saw my first ever comet! We ended the hike over a mirador looking over the lake. You could see all the volcanoes, including the active Volcán Fuego in nearby Antigua.
It was tough, I have never hiked that far with such a heavy load on my back, but so worth it!
Picture of Santa María
Caption: View of Volcán Santa María as we begin the ascent
Picture of Santa María
Picture of Guatemala
Caption: The group resting after 'record hill'
Picture of Guatemala
Caption: A lavenderia in the middle of a cornfield
Picture of Guatemala
Picture of Lake Atitlán
Caption: Beautiful sunrise over el lago de atitlan
Picture of Lake Atitlán
Caption: I decided to spend my birthday hiking and at a retreat on my own. Though I was sad to miss all my friends in Xela, I enjoyed ringing in the new year on my own for some quiet reflection time. I always party with friends, so thought I'd mix it up in Guatemala
Picture of Lake Atitlán
Picture of Hotel Isla Verde
Caption: Isla Verde I enjoyed stunning views of the lake, yoga overlooking the lake, a massage and a piece of heaven.
Picture of Hotel Isla Verde
Caption: View from my bedroom at Isla Verde. Perfect
Picture of Hotel Isla Verde
Picture of Hotel Isla Verde
Picture of Hotel Isla Verde
Picture of Hotel Isla Verde
Lake Atitlán
Caption: The last week has been magical.
I saw a comet, pushed myself physically, enjoyed the company of new friends on the hike, especially 3 inspirational women, experienced what relaxation means at Isla Verde. What a great birthday break. Here is to treating yourself more and here is to growing older with no regrets.
Picture of Lake Atitlán
Picture of Lake Atitlán
Caption: The lake is a result of volcanic activity and is filled entirely with rain water. Unfortunately, water levels are rising causing houses to be submerged due to to introduction of a black bass which changed the ecological and food system within the lake, this has now caused an algae build up which is causing the water levels to rise and toxicity in the lake.
Picture of Lake Atitlán
