Lake Atitlán

A setting so enchanting as to inspire the extraordinary worlds in Saint-Exupery’s Le Petit Prince, the shores of the lake are home to a large part of Guatemala’s indigenous communities, each of which upholds an individual trade, such as back-strap weaving, pottery and beading. With a local guide, explore the small villages around the lake by private boat, journeying from port to port to piece together the magic elements of this ‘micro-world’, meeting inspiring local craftsmen, and learning about the thriving indigenous cultures of rural Guatemala.

Traditional dress is still worn throughout the country and each community showcases its own patterns and colours. A haven for textile-lovers, the intricate handcrafts found in the tiny villages around Lake Atitlán are irresistible from hammocks to bedspreads, handwoven baskets to colourful purses and tablecloths.