BEHIND THE LENS
GUATEMALA BY GREGORIO DIAZ DIAZ GRANADOS
Can you tell us briefly about this trip? What brought you here?
I traveled with my girlfriend, Sofía, with the intention of exploring the volcanoes. We were drawn to the idea of climbing Acatenango and witnessing the eruption of the Volcán de Fuego. She suggested the idea, and from that moment on, we became obsessed with visiting here.
What cities did you visit?
Guatemala City, Antigua, Acatenango Volcano and Fuego Volcano and Lake Atitlán with some of its towns (Panajachel, San Marcos La Laguna, San Juan La Laguna, Santiago Atitlán).
What was your first impression of Guatemala?
I was surprised by how the Mayan traditions are alive in everyday life. There is a very present syncretism, where the ancestral and the contemporary blend together with a certain friction.
What places did you visit?
Antigua, Acatenango Volcano and Lake Atitlán. All of them are connected by the imposing presence of the volcanoes.
What is the most beautiful thing about this place?
The landscape, without a doubt. The volcanoes are eternal witnesses that shape the geography and the rhythm of life.
An interesting fact?
Guatemala has more than 250 volcanic formations, but only four are active. Among them, the Volcán de Fuego.
How did you get there?
A direct flight from Bogotá.
Where to stay?
At Lake Atitlán, Casa Maguey is an intimate option, perfect for immersing yourself in the landscape without sacrificing comfort. I also recommend La Casa del Mundo, a hotel built into the rocks on the lakeshore.
What particular memory comes to mind when you think of this trip?
The roar of the Volcán de Fuego breaking through the darkness. Watching it rumble in the distance, lighting up the night, is something I will never forget.
Where can you watch the best sunset?
From the nature reserve in San Marcos La Laguna. The almost blinding sunlight falling over the lake, with the volcanoes on the horizon, creates an unreal landscape.
What was your favorite place?
San Juan La Laguna, a town with very special energy.
Can you share a local secret?
Casa Flor Ixcaco is a cooperative of women weavers in San Juan La Laguna. They work with organic cotton, natural dyes, and backstrap looms, preserving ancestral techniques. And if you love spice, Al Hueso sauces are a true delicacy.
What does Guatemala taste like?
Like Al Hueso’s spicy sauces and pepián de pollo, a traditional Guatemalan dish.
Is there a song that reminds you of this place?
“Amor regresa ya” by Grupo Kual. I heard it for the first time in Panajachel.
If you had to choose a favorite thing about Guatemala, what would it be?
Lunch at La Cuevita de los Urquizú in Antigua. It’s a restaurant specializing in traditional cuisine.
Something about Guatemala that you haven’t seen anywhere else?
The volcanoes.
Survivor’s tip: What to pack?
A good water bottle—you can’t go on any trip without it.
Something everyone should know before arriving?
Guatemalans are hospitable and warm. There will always be someone willing to help or share a story.
What is beauty to you?
It’s a question with endless answers. But thinking about this trip, I feel that beauty manifests itself in those moments when time stands still…
