Spanish School Jabel Tinamit is located in the heart of Panajachel, 147 km from Guatemala City.

Panajachel, population just 5000, is on the shore of Lago de Atitlan, one of the world's most spectacular natural environments. From the beach, a few minutes walk from our school, you can see no less than three towering volcanoes: Vulcan San Pedro, Vulcan Toliman and, the highest at 3537m, Vulcan Atitlan.

Within Panajachel you will find Guatemalans of indigenous and Spanish descent. Cakchiquel and Tzutuhil Mayans, from the villages that surround the lake, sell all manner of handicrafts in the main street. Visitors from Guatemala City spend the weekend. And of course, people from all over the world come to study Spanish and enjoy the splendour of the area.

Our school, set in a lush and peaceful garden of coffee, banana and orange trees, is just off the main street (Calle Santander) and close to the main bus stop. We are behind the Tourist Office, just look for our large sign.
   

Great places to visit near Panajachel

There are many nearby places to visit, all possible in a single day although you may wish to stay longer. These include:

San Lucus Toliman - a lakeside village in a coffee growing area, it has a traditional market 4 days of the week and is accessible by both bus and boat.

Santiago Atitlan - on the far side of the lake, the women of this traditional town weave colourful cloth whilst many of its inhabitants still revere a local Mayan god. The one hour boat trip from Panajachel to the base of the volcanoes is an experience that will not be forgotten.

San Pedro La Laguna - Also on the far side of the lake, this town not only offers insight into the lives of indigenous Guatemalans but is 'base camp' for hiking to the summit of Volcan San Pedro.

Antigua - 80km from Panajachel, Antigua is a beautiful colonial town with a majestic central square (Parque Central) and cobbled streets. It also has three volcanoes in its vicinity one of which, Volcan Pacaya, remains active to this day!

Quetzaltenango - 99 km from Panajachel, Quetzaltenango rests in a mountain valley at over 2300m and is Guatemala's second city. The centre of the city is dominated by the open space and impressive colonial buildings of the Parque Centroamerica. Nearby sights include mountain villages and thermal baths.