Lake Atitlán one of the main tourist destinations in Guatemala. Lake Atitlán, considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, is surrounded by several volcanoes, most notably Tolimán and San Pedro. The origin of lake Atitlán is a mystery, some believe it was created from the convergence of 3 rivers, other believe it is the crater of an extinct volcano.

The lake is surrounded by villages where the Mayan culture, dress and customs are still used. There are several different local languages though mostly Tz´utujil and Kaqchikel.

Santiago Atitlán is the best known of the lakeside villages; it is noted for its worship of Maximón, an idol CREATED by the fusion of traditional Mayan saints, Catholic saints and conquistador legends. An effigy of Maximón resides in a different house each year, being moved in a grand procession during Semana Santa (Easter).