Hike to the Indian Nose, Lake Atitlan

You start off in the town of San Juan La Laguna. The hike starts at lake-water level which is around 5,000 ft (1,500 meters above sea level). It goes up on a steep hill with plenty of stairs. 15-20 minuties you'll find yourself at the top of a hill with a cross that overlooks San Juan. This view is only half as good as the view from the top. It takes about 2 hours to reach the top so start around 4:30 at the trail head. The top gets chilly and windy so bring an extra layer.

The trail goes up on a single track between corn and coffee fields. As you reach the top there are some signs for "Rostro Maya" which you have to follow. You'll go up some sketchy wooden stairs - no waivers needed!

The total eleveation gain is about 2,500 ft (800 meters) so you're higher than many mountains which allows to see the most beautiful sunrise. It's a total explosion of colors even on a cloudy day. On a clear day you'll be able to see Atitlan's 3 volcanoes and beyond. You can even see eruptions of Volcan de Fuego from the distance. 

The top separates San Juan and Santa Clara so if you reach some wooden structures and camping spots you've reached Santa Clara. The local guides wait there to charge people another Q50 so just go back down a bit and stay in San Juan if you don't feel like paying. Usually you pay Q30 at the trailhead in San Juan but at dark no one will charge you. When you go down the same trail just keep running!!

Make sure to check out Flor de Ixcaco, the women weavers association, La Cueva leather shop and medicinal herbs association, art galleries and coffee shops in the town of San Juan. 

Sunrise is around 6:30 almost year round since we're close to the equator.