The Midsummer Festival in Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, is a celebration that brings together locals and travelers from around the world. This year, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a unique equestrian adventure that blended horseback riding, acrobatics, and cultural immersion.
At the heart of this experience was Kaleesa Seanna, a remarkable woman from Lebanon who deserves special recognition. As an Urban Circus producer and skilled equestrian, Kaleesa brought her passion and expertise to Guatemala, creating an unforgettable experience for all of us. Her warm welcome and radiant smile set the tone for our adventure, and her guidance throughout was invaluable.
Our group was as diverse as it was enthusiastic. We had Clara from England, bringing her rich equestrian heritage; Ellianna from Florida, Kaleesa’s protégé who impressed us with her aerial yoga skills; Yasmine from the Middle East, whose grace and kindness shone through; Ana from Romania, demonstrating impressive strength; Jeff, a sailor from Rio Dulce; Gio from San Diego, showcasing aerial skills; Lorena from Germany, representing her country’s proud equestrian tradition; Kris from the Netherlands, a volunteer photographer at Eden; and Lindsay, an acupuncturist and herbalist specializing in Chinese medicine.
Kaleesa began by teaching us the basics of horsemanship. We learned to walk, trot, run, and gallop with our equine companions. Her instruction was both practical and poetic, often reminding us that “Happiness comes from horses and respect.” This philosophy became our mantra as we bonded with the intelligent and sensitive caballos.
Our journey took us through the winding trails of the surrounding mountains, known as the Three Giants. As we climbed higher, the breathtaking vista of Lake Atitlán unfolded before us. The early morning light cast a soft glow over the landscape, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
One of the highlights was galloping through the narrow, cobblestone streets of San Marcos. Kaleesa demonstrated her incredible acrobatic skills, performing stunts on horseback with her hands in the air. Her flexibility, grace, and obvious passion for horses were truly inspiring.
At the summit of our mountain trek, we paused to rest and let the horses graze. The panoramic view was awe-inspiring, with Atitlan, Tolimán and San Pedro volcanoes standing tall against the clear sky. It was a moment of peace and connection with nature that none of us will soon forget.
Back at Rancho Moises, Kaleesa and Ellianna introduced us to horse acrobatics. With patience and skill, they guided us through various movements, pushing our boundaries and boosting our confidence.
The adventure culminated in the Midsummer festival at the Birdhouse, where we danced the night away to the beats of DJ Paul. The festival’s energy perfectly complemented the excitement and joy of our equestrian experience.
Throughout our time in San Pedro, we were constantly reminded of the importance of horses in Maya culture. These magnificent animals are still vital for long-distance travel in many parts of Guatemala, and they are deeply revered by indigenous communities.
Lake Atitlán itself, known as Lago de Atitlán, holds a sacred place in Maya cosmology. Its beauty and cultural significance added an extra layer of meaning to our adventure.
In conclusion, this Midsummer experience in San Pedro La Laguna was more than just a fun outing. It was a journey of connection – to nature, to horses, to a rich cultural heritage, and to each other. Special thanks must go to Kaleesa Seana, whose vision, skill, and passion made this all possible. Her ability to blend equestrian skills with acrobatics, all while fostering a deep respect for the horses and the local culture, created an experience that was truly one-of-a-kind.
For anyone looking for an adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and unique skills, I cannot recommend Kaleesa’s program highly enough. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left the shores of Lake Atitlán.
