ATITLN, LAKE

Spanish Lago De Atitln, lake in southwestern Guatemala. It lies in the central highlands at about 5,128 feet (1,563 m) above sea level. The lake, 1,049 feet (320 m) deep, is 12 miles (19 km) long and 6 miles (10 km) wide, with an area of 49.3 square miles (127.7 square km). It occupies a valley dammed by volcanic ash; on its borders are three cone-shaped volcanoes: Atitln, Tolimn, and San Pedro. The shores of the spectacular lake are dotted with Indian villages. The main towns along the lake, including Panajachel, Atitln, and San Lucas, cater to the tourist trade. The lake is located about 90 miles (145 km) by road west of Guatemala City.