EPIC-ness on Lake Atitlan

Kim: We just completed an EPIC adventure on Lake Atitlan with our friend Carol and her daughter Zoe. 36 hours, a lot of fun, a dose of misery, a great deal of adventure, 3 kayaks, and 6 people! We set out Saturday morning for a 3 hour kayak trip on Lake Atitlan from the village of Santa Cruz across to Santiago Atitlan. The day was gorgeous and sunny as the paddlers set out surrounded by calm and tranquil waters. We swam a bit, collected pumice, and admired the stunning views. Lake Atitlan is an incredibly gorgeous place that constantly takes your breath away! Soon after crossing the half way point, the wind starting picking up a little bit and soon after that was blowing a good headwind into us. Moving forward in the kayaks took more and more effort and at times we felt as though no forward motion was happening! The three boats, as named by Lucia, were “slow and steady” (Dan & Lucia), “loud and fighting” (Kim & Marino), and “lost boat” (Carol & Zoe) due to the characteristics their occupants exhibited under stress. 

Setting off!

Marino & Zoe

In the middle of the lake, still calm

Lucia foot selfie

After becoming separated for a short period of time, we regrouped on the shore to eat chocolate and other snacks. At that time, we thought that the worst was behind us and a short paddle would bring us to our hotel with the HOT TUB (We were freezing by this point!). What awaited us was stronger winds, rain and thunder, and three more hours of exhausting paddling. The “lost boat” was left behind a bend as the other boats struggled forward and the next sighting of them was riding past us in a private lancha. We politely declined offers to join them, as the hotel was just “around the bend”. The “loud and fighting“ boat reached another high peak as the sight of the boat pulling away from us was simply too much to bear for one of the boat’s occupants. Helping hands, Zoe and Carol, and a hot tub welcomed us to land seven hours after we had initially set off!

half way there and warming up!

Gathering strength!

Getting warm and refreshed...

Kim's morning dip, the next day

Dan and Marino canoeing Sunday

            The remainder of the time before we took a private lancha home today (with kayaks perched inside) was spent swimming in the lake and pool, soaking in the hot tub, eating at the wonderful and cozy restaurant, playing games and visiting. Carol and Kim walked to Santiago to go to the market, wander around and shop a bit, only to find all two of the town’s ATMs out of service in one way or another. Tired and very sore tonight at home, it will be a trip to remember and laugh about! As Lucia said, “It was almost too epic!”. 

Carol and the local guys

the embroidered pants the men wear

market wears

afternoon rain and snow cone shaver