Hike in pristine Forest, a view from above Atitlan

Vincent is a genuine treasure. If you are looking for a traditional tourist experience, this may not be for you. But if you are looking for something off the beaten path, an authentic experience of the rainforest, the land, and someone who is broadly and deeply knowledgeable about Mayan traditions, spirituality, history, and present day. - someone who is willing to share that knowledge generously - then sign up for this unforgettable experience.

First, Los Elementos is quick to respond to inquiries which gives it the edge for my business. There are a lot of lakeside tour companies but Lee and Los Elementos are well established. I discovered this trek looking for activities outside of the regular lake-side villages. It didn't disappoint. We booked another tour with them and had several other tours recommended. Plus we also rented kayaks for a morning and kayaked around Santa Cruz and Jaibolito. They are terrific. For this hike: Lee and Mario picked us up at our BnB in Santa Catarina and we drove close to an hour north of Solola where we hiked a short distance down into a labyrinth area. Within a short period of time we met the labyrinth developer, Vincent Stanzione, who has lived in Atitlan area for a long long time, tho not of mayan descent. He's an author and researcher and for the project of the labryrinth, he had local friends help him as a covid project to make mounds and other shapes (like snakes). Vincent spent hours with us answering questions and offering his opinions on life around the lake. I had read one of his books in prep for our time together. He's a humble thinker who cares so much about sharing what he's been given. I highly encourage this walk/hike 1) If you like and can withstand far distance hikes. It was the rainy season and it did start raining on our walk back. You probably wouldn't enjoy this excursion if you aren't inquisitive about Mayan history or life and if you don't like walking. 2) Come with your own questions about what you've read or understood about Lake Atitlan and/or Mayan culture. 3) Dress in layers - the forest can be colder but the hot sun will be too much for a jacket. 4) Bring a snack or sack lunch and for sure a water bottle. We were glad a delicoius light lunch was provided by Lee! 5) Block off about 6-7 hours or be very specific about what time you need to return. Vincent will never run out of things to talk about and your goal on the hike is to get to the over-look point way above the clouds overlooking the lake. This can take a few hours. The hike itself is mostly flat with some ups and downs but you're going to want good hiking shoes. Both my partner and I really enjoyed all the time with Lee and Vincent and got to see parts of the Mayan world we would have never seen otherwise. My partner called it Forest Bathing. Including the drive, you will go up around 2,000 feet from where you start!