Bus

Antigua’s main bus terminal is found next to the market, three blocks west of the central plaza. It is separated from the heart of town by a broad, tree-lined street. There are connections to the highlands available by taking one of many frequent buses up to Chimaltenango (every 15 minutes, half-hour travel time) along the Pan-American Highway and a requisite stop for buses trundling along to the highlands from Guatemala City.

You can also catch one of the slightly less frequent buses to San Lucas Sacatepéquez, which is closer to Guatemala City. There may be more seats available on the buses plying the same highway en route toward Chimaltenango.

Buses for Guatemala City leave every 15 minutes or so 4 a.m.–7:30 p.m., taking about an hour and costing about $1.25. There is also a direct bus to Panajachel at 7 a.m. leaving from 4a Calle Poniente #34 (two hours, $5).

Otherwise, buses leave every 15 minutes for San Miguel Dueñas (“Dueñas,” 30 minutes, $0.30) stopping along the way in Ciudad Vieja. There are also buses every 30 minutes for San Antonio Aguas Calientes and Santa María de Jesús.

Shuttle Bus

Many travelers opt for the comfort, convenience, safety, and hassle-free experience aboard one of the numerous shuttle buses. Destinations include frequent runs to the Guatemala City airport, at least one bus daily to Monterrico and Cobán, several daily to Panajachel and Quetzaltenango, and less frequently to Río Dulce.

Recommended shuttle companies include Atitrans (6a Avenida Sur #8, tel. 7832-3371 or 7832-0644, www.atitrans.com) and Adrenalina Tours (5a Avenida Norte #31, tel. 7832-1108, www.adrenalinatours.com). Moon-Ray Tours (tel. 7832-0198) has buses to San Salvador, El Salvador, on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 9 a.m., costing $30 one-way and returning on alternate days.

Taxi

Taxis can be found on the east side of the park next to the cathedral by the bus terminal. The former is probably a safer place to board one. A ride to Guatemala City should cost around $30. You’ll also see tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws) throughout the city, costing considerably less and recommended for short distances.

Car Rental

Tabarini (6a Avenida Sur #22, tel. 7832-8107) rents cars from its own office and also handles bookings via Sin Fronteras (5a Avenida Norte #15A, tel. 7832-1017).

© Al Argueta from Moon Guatemala, 3rd Edition. Photos © Al Argueta www.alargueta.com