Looking for how to get to Antigua from Guatemala City? This is the guide for you!
The colonial city of Antigua is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Guatemala. It is the second-largest city in the country and the nation’s first capital.
It is also conveniently located around 1 hour by car from the La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City.
Most travelers to Guatemala begin their journey in Guatemala City upon arrival at the airport. Most travelers also simply use this as a transfer city on the way to Flores, Antigua, or Lake Atitlan.
Due to its proximity to Guatemala City, there are a variety of ways to get to Antigua such as taking a public shuttle, private transfer, Uber, or Taxi.
I took a private shuttle due to my late arrival time and I am glad I chose this option. However, a different option might be better for you.
This guide covers the top options, and why!
Ride Options from Guatemala City to Antigua
Public Shuttle
Taking a public shuttle is one of the most popular options when getting from Guatemala City to Antigua. There are a few operators running every couple of hours.
The cost is around $20 USD. Some hostels offer this option for cheaper. Before booking anything, I recommend reaching out to your hostel and asking if they provide this service.
Some known shuttle service providers include:
- Guate Driver
- GuateToGo
I booked GuateToGo a couple of times and they were about 45 minutes late both times.
he ride was safe and reliable, but my one time booking Guate Driver, they arrived early. Maybe this is simply the difference between a large and small business.
But if you are in a time crunch (like me trying to catch a flight), Guate Driver was a great experience.
Private Transfer
I chose to take a private transfer from Guatemala City to Antigua. This is because my flight was arriving after 4:00pm. The next public shuttle was departing at 7:00pm, and I honestly didn’t want to wait at the airport for 3 hours.
I was also visiting during Semana Santa, one of the biggest holidays in Guatemala and specifically in Antigua. I knew that the roads were going to be packed, so getting on the road sooner than later was a priority for me.
Without these potential roadblocks (no pun intended) I would have opted for the more budget-friendly option of a $20 shuttle.
This is my pick as a solo traveler. If you are traveling with at least two other friends, I recommend a private shuttle. The cost is around $60, leading to the same price per person as a public shuttle.
That is the same price for more comfort, higher convenience, fewer stops, and a shorter ride!
I opted for a private transfer from Panajachel to Guatemala City and I’m so glad that I did.
Some known private transfer drivers include:
- Guate Driver
- GuateToGo
Yup, the same known companies as the public shuttles. Most companies offer both public and private shuttle or transfer services.
Taxi or Uber
I have not taken a taxi or Uber this far of a distance in Guatemala, so I cannot speak to the experience.
I have heard from others that fares can go up higher if the ride takes longer and you are stuck in traffic, and the price is not necessarily fixed.
As a solo traveler, I also felt safest taking a longer drive with a licensed tour operator since I was arriving in the evening.
However, my Uber experiences around Antigua were great and reliable.
Rental Car
I personally did not rent a car in Guatemala and would not have felt comfortable doing so.
However, this is up to your own comfort level! I recommend researching what it’s like to drive in Guatemala to make your own informed decision.
Antigua is full of narrow, cobblestone roads. Beautiful to explore! But not so much for driving (in my opinion).
Antigua Planning
FAQ
Q: How long is the drive from Guatemala City to Antigua?
A: The drive from Guatemala City to Antigua typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Q: What is the cheapest way to travel between Guatemala City and Antigua?
A: The most budget-friendly option is to take a public shuttle, which costs around $20 per person.
Q: Are there private transfer options available for traveling from Guatemala City to Antigua?
A: Yes, there are private transfers available. Some known companies include Guate Driver and GuateToGo.
The cost for a private shuttle is around $60, which could be cost-effective if you are traveling in a group of three, making it $20 per person.
Q: Is it safe to take a taxi or Uber for this distance?
A: While taxis and Ubers are available, fares can vary, especially with unexpected traffic. For longer distances, it’s often recommended to use a licensed tour operator, especially when traveling in the evening or as a solo traveler.
Q: Can I take a Chicken Bus?
A: Yes, Chicken Buses are available. Chicken buses are local, public transportation available in Central America.
I did not take a Chicken Bus in Guatemala so I cannot speak to the experience. However, I learned that travelers felt most safe going with a shuttle or private transfer this far of a distance.
If you are interested in taking a Chicken Bus, I recommend completing further research on this option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, for first-time visitors traveling from Guatemala City to Antigua, the most convenient and recommended options include taking a public shuttle or opting for a private transfer.
These choices provide a blend of affordability, comfort, and safety.
For those prioritizing budget, public shuttles at $20 per person represent a cost-effective method, while groups might find private transfers a valuable option, splitting the cost to about $20 per person.
Taxis and Ubers are available but consider the reliability of licensed tour operators for safety, especially for evening or solo travels. Chicken Buses are an authentic local experience (and the cheapest option), yet require further research for those unfamiliar with the region.
