Across the Guatemalan Highlands to the Most Beautiful Lake in the World.
Day 1
We start the day by meeting at the Quetzaltrekkers office for breakfast before making our way to the bus station were we catch a bus to Xecam. We then start the days trekking by climbing out of the valley, enjoying some fantastic views of Santa Maria and the Xela valley. After taking a break, we make our way across the open grass land, passing through some small settlements and stopping for lunch just outside an indigenous village overlooking the cloud forests above Xetinamit. After lunch we descend through the cloud forest to Santa Catarina (a.k.a. Ixtahuacan) where we spend the night.

Day 2
After a fairly early rise we have a typical breakfast in a comedor in the market square.
We then make our way along the valley, taking breaks at viewpoints and passing through farm land before dropping down to the river for a well earned break. Next we ascend to the top of a ridge, where we stop for lunch. We follow the ridge out of the village and then descend to another river valley where the path winds back and forth across the creek - a good sense of balance is useful for the stepping stones! Next is a quick ascent to the road from where we make our way to Santa Clara La Laguna (a.k.a. Xiprian, one of the larger villages above the lake) where we stay with a local family for the evening.

Day 3
Rise early for a short walk to our viewpoint to enjoy a spectacular sunrise over Lago de Atitlan. After a warming cup of tea or coffee and a leisurely breakfast, we climb up to the sacred peak of La Naríz and then hike down to San Juan la Laguna for a swim in the lake and lunch at a women's cooperative.  For those staying at the lake, the trek ends here.  Your bags arrive, and you can then take a bus or tuk tuk to San Pedro.  Those returning to Xela catch a ride in our pickup (included in cost) and arrive back at the Quetzaltrekkers' office around 5pm.

Minimum Donation Q600.00

This hike leaves every Saturday morning. Bag delivery to San Juan la Laguna is Q90 per bag.

Cost includes:

• All Transport
• Food
• Water
• Guides
• Equipment, ie. Sleeping Bags, Roll Mats, Waterproofs, etc.

Cost does not include:

• Personal travel insurance
• Alcoholic beverages
• Costs incurred due to accident, illness or any other unforeseen circumstances
• Tips for the Guides