Santiago Atitlán

Lonely Planet review

With an enduring traditional Tz'utujil Mayan lifestyle, Santiago Atitlán is the most visited lakeside settlement outside Panajachel. Women weave and wear huipiles embroidered with brilliantly colored birds and flowers, and the town's cofradías (Mayan religious brotherhoods) maintain the ceremonies and rituals of Mayan Catholicism.

Santiago Atitlán is home to a much-revered, cigar-smoking version of the popular Guatelaman deity Maximón, who is paraded around during Semana Santa (Easter) - offerings of cigarettes and rum are appreciated at any time. There's also a thriving art and crafts scene, especially on market days (Friday and Saturday), as well as weaving demonstrations. The village is on the south side of the lake and can be reached by regular ferry from Panajachel.