Body of missing UK backpacker Catherine Shaw found in Guatemala

The body of a UK backpacker missing in a Guatemalan tourist hotspot has been found a week after she disappeared.

Catherine Shaw, 23, was last seen on security video leaving the Eco Hotel Mayachik in San Juan La Laguna, near Lake Atitlan, just before 5.30am on March 5.

She was barefoot and carrying a small puppy, with her mobile phone and passport left in her room.

It is believed she was hiking to a nearby mountain to watch the sunrise, but she never returned.

Volunteers and local police launched a search mission in the area, with grave fears held for Ms Shaw given her clothing and conditions.

The puppy was found malnourished but alive on Friday and Ms Shaw's favourite pink jacket was discovered nearby on Sunday.

Ms Shaw's body was found at the top of El Naudiz mountain today.

"We are now able to confirm that the body found in the search in Guatemala is that of missing Catherine Shaw," the Lucie Blackman Trust, which supports the families of UK nationals missing overseas, said.

"Thank you to everyone who has helped in the search.

"Our thoughts are with Catherine's family, who we will continue to support as they need."

Police are yet to confirm if the death was accidental or if Ms Shaw met with foul play.

The former yoga teacher, from Witney in Oxfordshire, had been travelling through Guatemala with a friend after visiting California and Mexico.

In emotional social media appeal last week, Ms Shaw's parents Ann and Tarquin pleaded with their daughter to let them know she was safe.

"Hello Catherine, you've been out of touch for five days now," her mother Ann Shaw said.

"We, your family, really need to know that you're happy and that you're well.

"So please get in touch. Get in touch with us, we really need you home."

Ms Shaw's parents had earlier told the trust the disappearance was out of character.

"She has always been really good about keeping in touch and informing us of her whereabouts and activities," they said through the trust.

"So this is unusual behaviour which gives us great concern for her safety. Please help us to find her."

The scenic Lake Atitlan is dotted with towns at its edge, with its towering volcanoes popular with visitors.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade urges Australians to exercise a high degree of caution in Guatemala, which shares borders with Mexico, Belize, Honduras and El Salvador.