Guatemala. The municipality of Santa Catarina Palopó, a magical destination on the shores of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, was awarded the title of “Picturesque City at the National Level” by the Guatemalan Institute of Tourism -INGUAT- in 2016, at a special ceremony held as part of the patron celebrations in honor of Saint Catherine of Alexandria.
Located in the department of Sololá, 138 kilometers from the capital, the municipality is characterized by its location in the eastern part of the department and covers a territorial area of about 8 square kilometers. Located in an area that includes the majestic Lake Atitlán and the pyroclastic fill surrounding the Atitlán Caldera, it is one of the 19 municipalities of this department and one of the 12 that surround the lake.
Santa Catarina Palopó has made a name for itself as one of the main tourist destinations in the region, attracting locals and tourists due to its natural attractions, which include Lake Atitlán, the Tolimán and Atitlán volcanoes, its hot springs, the vibrant Mayan culture, etc international visitors to various activities, such as the “Pintando Santa Catarina” project, “Weaving of Santa Catarina”. It is also an ideal place for sports such as mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, paragliding and other water activities.
Through “picturesque towns”. The program, under the supervision and leadership of INGUAT, aims to preserve the identity and belonging of exceptional places in our country. At the same time, this program makes a significant contribution to the goals of the Master Plan for Sustainable Tourism Development 2015-2025.
This prestigious recognition is the result of a joint effort and a shared vision between INGUAT and the residents of Santa Catarina Palopó. The aim is to strengthen identity and belonging as well as to preserve and revitalize the relevant cultural and natural features of this picturesque community.
In this context, INGUAT congratulates the residents of Santa Catarina Palopó for earning the “Picturesque Towns” award and for their tireless efforts to keep traditions and folklore alive and to share their cultural and natural wealth with all visitors.
Spring. Inguat