Located on the shore of one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world, Atitlán is no ordinary lake. Technically the lake is a Caldera, an ancient super-volcano´s now inactive crater, filled with fresh water throughout thousands of years. The Guatemalan highlands, home to dozens of ethnically Mayan sub-groups, maintains many local customs, dress, and languages directly linked to this fascinating & ancient pre-columbian civilization. A flourishing avant-garde music scene is nourished via production studios and our own performance space, where the sounds of African, Native and World music melt into a distinct sound that is distinctly local, yet globally renowned. Large amounts of ex-pats from the West contribute to the melting pot of cuisine, culture, art and many volunteers and NGO staff enjoy the lake whilst offering a taste of home. Amazing Vietnamese, New American, Creole and Mayan food are but a few of the delicious yet affordable culinary options available a short walk away. If the main town of Panajachel ins´t enough, 10 other towns are accesible via inexpensive boat-taxis, each with unique cultures, heritages and an abundance of charm.