Trains and metro
Guatemala has no passenger rail network, and the old FEGUA railway is long dormant. In the capital, the main urban transit is the Transmetro, a bus rapid transit system with dedicated lanes and fixed Q1 fares paid with a prepaid card. There is no metro, so for city travel you rely on buses and ride apps.
Buses: chicken buses and Pullmans
The iconic camionetas, or chicken buses, are repainted US school buses that connect nearly every town. They are cheap (often Q5 to Q30 for short hops) and an authentic experience, but crowded and not the safest for valuables. For longer routes, Pullman coaches are far more comfortable.
- ADN and Litegua serve routes to the Caribbean and Peten.
- Fuente del Norte covers Flores and Tikal.
- For Antigua and Lake Atitlan, tourist shuttles are the easy choice.
Tourist shuttles
Shared shuttle vans are the backbone of traveler routes. A seat from Guatemala City airport to Antigua runs about Q60 to Q120, and Antigua to Panajachel (Lake Atitlan) around Q100 to Q150. Book through your hotel or an agency a day ahead.
Ride apps and taxis
Uber works well in Guatemala City and Antigua, and is usually safer and cheaper than street taxis. InDrive is also available. The official airport taxis are yellow; agree on the fare first if you skip the app. Avoid hailing unmarked cabs.
Car rental and driving
Renting a car gives freedom around the Western Highlands, but city traffic and mountain roads are demanding. International agencies operate at La Aurora airport; expect around Q300 to Q600 per day. Drive in daylight, watch for topes (speed bumps), and keep your passport and license handy for checkpoints.
Intercity travel tips
- Travel during the day; many drivers avoid night roads.
- Carry small bills in quetzales for buses and tolls.
- Lake Atitlan villages are linked by lanchas (public boats) from Panajachel.
- To reach Tikal, fly to Flores from the capital, or take an overnight Pullman.
- Keep luggage on your lap or in sight on chicken buses.
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