Backpacking Guatemala on a Budget

You can comfortably backpack Guatemala on $35 to $45 per day. By prioritizing shared chicken buses, staying in highly-rated hostels, and eating at local comedores, you can keep costs low while still enjoying all major activities.

1. Master the Chicken Bus. Avoid private tourist shuttles whenever possible. Chicken buses (refurbished US school buses) cost $1–$3 for most journeys, while shuttles cost $15–$25. Ask locals at the bus terminal which bus goes to your destination and pay the driver's assistant once onboard.
2. Eat at Local Comedores. Skip 'tourist' restaurants. Look for local comedores serving a 'desayuno' or 'almuerzo' for $3–$5. Always check for a place with a high turnover of locals to ensure freshness.
3. Book Hostels with Kitchens. Save $10+ per day by making your own breakfast and dinner. Most hostels have communal kitchens; buy your produce at the local daily markets rather than at imported-goods grocery stores.
4. Use ATMs Wisely. Bank ATMs (like Banco Industrial or G&T Continental) charge around $5 per withdrawal. Pull out the maximum limit ($250-$300) each time to minimize the impact of flat transaction fees.

Are chicken buses safe?

They are safe for daytime travel. Avoid taking them at night and keep your bag on your lap rather than the overhead rack or roof.

Is it easy to meet people?

Yes. The backpacker trail is well-defined, and hostels in Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Flores are social hubs.