Lake Atitlán, is a beautiful volcanic lake in the Western Highlands of Guatemala . It is ringed by small towns, many of which are favourites among backpackers. The region encompasses the lake and the towns around them. Panajachel is best known, and a good entry point, but more off the beaten track are San Pedro la Laguna or the “less party, more meditation” village of San Marcos. Due to the region’s popularity, other towns along the lake, such as Santa Cruz la Laguna and San Juan , are now starting to see growing tourism.