Lake Amatitlan:
its Volcanoes & National Parks

The placid emerald Lake of Amatitlan is situated in a beautiful rural Valley, on the road to the Pacific Ocean. Because of its altitude, almost 4,000 feet (1.188m), it enjoys a mild micro-climate all year round.

The Amatitlan Valley with its lush mountains and volcanoes AGUA, FUEGO and PACAYA forms one ecological complex.

The Lake itself is a product of sismic activity and volcano eruptions, which occurred millions of years ago.

The Lake and the Village - of the same name - are close to two natural reserves: the National PACAYA Park and the U.N. National Park.

United Nations National Park

On a hill overlooking Lake AMATITLAN, lies the United Nations National Park, a protected area of 350 Ha. (865 Acres) and managed by a Guatemalan non-profit organization (NGO). Its mission is to enhance ecological awareness aimed at the preservation of the Amatitlan's Valley. It is in charge of educational as well as reforestation programs. The park contains an interactive small animal ranch, botanical gardens and replicas of the most important archeological sites of Guatemala.

You'll be impressed by the serenity of Mother Nature, while you'll breathe pure air scented by eucalyptus and pine trees. From the “Mirador” you'll get an extraordinary panoramic view of the shores of Lake Amatitlan and of Volcanoes PACAYA (active) and AGUA.

***************************************

* All visitors' entry fees go directly to the NGO "Defenders of Nature", a Guatemalan non-profit Foundation that manages the U.N. National Park and other natural reserves.

To see more photos of Guatemala www.fotosdeguatemala.com.