Some of the best things happen by accident. It’s one of the main reasons I love adventure travel and prefer to have few prearranged plans. A friend at Cocori Lodge suggested I go to Lake Atitlan. So, I scheduled a few days off from yoga, booked a ride, and off I went to check it out.
The Ferry Ride
It was a four hour shuttle ride which included a “ferry boat.” None of us knew we were taking a “ferry,” until the driver started backing the shuttle down into the marina. We heard a ruckus, a bunch of shouting, then boom, our driver maneuvered the shuttle over a couple of planks onto a floating dock that was our “ferry.” We rode through the mangroves, up a canal, enjoying all the different birds nesting in the trees, and then disembarked about a half hour later.
Getting There
Mother and daughter on their way to school
The shuttle ride lasted another three hours as we slowly bumped and crawled our way over rough Guatemalan roads, passing through tiny little villages and sugarcane fields. I finally got my first glimpse of the lake, and it took my breath away! It sort of reminded me of lake Como in Italy. I had an incredible three days, and I’ll never forget the stunning loveliness and charming villages of lake Atitlan, Guatemala.
The Splendor of San Marcos
The lake is surrounded by volcanoes and charming little towns, including Santa Cruz, San Juan, San Pedro, and San Marcos. My friend told me that San Marcos is the best of the villages surrounding the lake and is a small hippie town. Boy was he right! I haven’t felt such incredible energy since walking around Rishikesh for the first time. Expats and backpackers from around the world converge to create a funky little community of frees spirited individuals. I met a woman named Freedom, a yoga teacher from the United Kingdom, and a guy from Longview, Washington, currently living in Peru.
Incredible Shopping
Guatemalan man proudly displays his handiwork
The local shops cater to the needs and desires of all the nomads and locals. So, there were lots of interesting shops, including a health food store where I found products like ghee and tea tree oil. The colorful clothing shops had fashion ranging from indigenous dress to yoga pants and hemp clothing. There were also many artisans selling remarkable handmade jewelry, leather goods, wood carvings, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Delicious Food
A happy dog enjoying the music at the Japanese restaurant
The food in San Marcos was healthy (except for the decadent pastries and ice cream). There were several vegetarian, and even vegan restaurants, to choose from. Circles Café is tucked away into the jungle and seems to be a favorite hot spot for coffee and Wi-Fi. I had a huge cappuccino that was to die for! One night I heard there was a Japanese restaurant with an all you can eat sushi buffet. I had to go! Turns out the sushi was good, although basic, but the live music and décor made for perfect ambiance!
Personal Growth
The kirtan at Yoga Forest
Everywhere around San Marcos are flyers and advertisements about all kinds of personal growth and spiritual happenings. Yoga classes, guided meditations, and empowerment workshops were everywhere. The highlight of my visit was a kirtan (musical gathering where all attendees sing and chant together) that I joined at the Yoga Forest. I had to hike uphill through the jungle about half an hour, but it was an easy climb with spectacular scenery. Once I reached the entry, beautiful flowers, such as birds of paradise, greeted me. The music lasted a couple of hours and moved me to tears. I felt such immense gratitude for being part of such a joyous experience. Afterward I attended a drum circle around a fire at one of the local hostels.
San Marcos, on the shores of Lake Atitlan, is a remarkable place! The vibe, shopping, food, people, and scenery are all wonderful. I’m so glad I listened to my friend and went to visit. Someday I hope to return, and if not, I’ll always cherish the beautiful memories.