Getting Around in Guatemala

Upon Arrival

When you reach Guatemala, the first thing you'll have to do is meet Guatemala's entry requirements . For most travelers, this will be little more than a passport good for six (6) months past your intended date of stay, and proof of onward or return travel.

You can visit this tropical nation any time of year, but weather patterns do vary. The " best time to visit Guatemala ," unsurprisingly, is its dry season, which ranges from November until early May. However, the rainy season is still quite pleasant, and can be more affordable. Keep this in mind as you make your travel arrangements.

All Things Transport

By Plane

Guatemala doesn’t have the best domestic airline service. In fact, the only domestic flight service currently scheduled connects Guatemala City and Flores . Domestic carriers that fly out of Guatemala City operate from the La Aurora International Airport (GUA). The only airline operating domestic flights is TACA.

Ongoing improvements are being made to many smaller airports across Guatemala, and it’s possible that the country will be well connected by domestic flights in the coming years. New domestic airports are being constructed in Quetzaltenango , Huehuetenango , Coatepeque, San Marcos, and Puerto San José . Other airports may soon be built at Puerto Barrios and Retalhuleu .

By Rental Car

It’s easy to rent a car in Guatemala. Having a rental car will allow you to explore the country at your own pace; it’s nice to have the freedom and flexibility to chart the course of your travels. If you do decide to rent a car, it’s a good idea to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle, as the Guatemalan roads can be bumpy and rough (especially in rural areas). Also, be sure to do your homework on your home insurance policy and figure out if you need to buy additional insurance. To rent a car you’ll need a driver’s license from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Guatemalan roads can be hazardous and have poor signage. Driving etiquette is also quite different in Guatemala — it’s not uncommon to pass on blind curves, for example. Take caution while exploring this country in a rental car.

By Bus

Buses are the main method of transportation for most Guatemalans, and many travelers choose to save money by taking buses. Often referred to as “chicken buses”, these local inter- and intracity buses are often set in old U.S. school buses. They can be crowded and you might have to stand for the entire bus ride. However, they are very inexpensive, and thus, are a good option for economically minded travelers. They’ll also give you a real taste of the local Guatemalan lifestyle. The buses go most everywhere and stop anywhere. Do note, however, that robberies and accidents have occurred on public buses.

There are also first-class (primera clase) buses running between major Guatemalan destinations, including Guatemala City , Huehuetenango , Quetzaltenango , Flores , Cobán , and Puerto Barrios . On these buses you’re guaranteed to have your own seat, and some buses even have restrooms. The buses are set in large luxury coaches.

By Shuttle

Shuttles are one of the easiest ways to get around Guatemala. These include both private and shared transports — in both of these options, travelers are picked up at their hotel in the original destination and dropped off at their hotel in the final destination. Shared shuttles usually include an hour of wait time and thus allow travelers to stop and take photos or get lunch. Private shuttles allow you to go where you want, when you want. Both options offer door-to-door service.

By Boat

If you’ll be visiting Lake Atitlán , Río Dulce , Lake Izabal or Lívingston , it’s possible that you’ll use a boat to get between various destinations and attractions. Small motorboats frequently run between the villages, hotels, and attractions in these areas. Boats also run along the Canal de Chiquimulilla on the Pacific side of Guatemala.

By Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Guatemala. In larger towns cabs can be hailed in upscale, touristy areas; in small towns taxis tend to hang around the central square. Try to get a cab with a meter. Small towns also have tuk-tuks, motorized rickshaws that offer yet another mode of transportation. These are cheaper than taxicabs and are great for going short distances.

If you’re going to stay in one area for a longer period of time and need a way to get around, you can often negotiate deals with local taxi drivers for a daily or weekly rate. You can usually score a good price if you use the same driver or company for multiple days. Guatemalan taxi drivers are helpful and friendly.

P.S. Don't just protect yourself on the road during your adventures in Guatemala! Read " Going Abroad? This is Why Travel Insurance is A MUST! " Then, get your personalized travel insurance quote .

Can you take public buses around Guatemala?

Yes, though most of our travelers don't. Guatemala's public buses come in two kinds. The brightly painted "chicken buses" — retired U.S. school buses — run within and between towns, stop anywhere and cost very little, but they're often packed, slow and hard going with luggage, and robberies and accidents do happen. First-class (primera clase) coaches connect Guatemala City with Quetzaltenango, Huehuetenango, Flores, Cobán and Puerto Barrios, with a reserved seat and sometimes a restroom.

Along the main tourist routes, shared tourist shuttles are the easier middle ground, with hotel pickup and drop-off. For a trip built around comfort and timing, private transfers are the way to go: La Aurora airport to Antigua is about 2 hours, and Antigua to Panajachel on Lake Atitlán about 2 hours.