Planning a Trip to Guatemala

Fly into Guatemala City (GUA), take a pre-booked shuttle to Antigua, and spend your first week exploring the highlands. Use tourist shuttles for inter-city travel as they are safer and more reliable than public 'chicken buses' for short-term visitors.

1. Book your arrival transport. Do not take a random taxi from GUA airport. Arrange a private shuttle in advance through your first hotel in Antigua (about 45 minutes away) to ensure you have a driver waiting for you.
2. Decide on your route. For a first trip, stick to the 'Gringo Trail': Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal. This covers the most iconic volcanic landscapes, Mayan culture, and historical ruins without overextending your travel time.
3. Secure your transport between regions. Use 'GuateGo' or 'Atitrans' for shared tourist shuttles. They are the standard for moving between Antigua, Panajachel (Lake Atitlán), and Lanquin. Expect to pay $20-$35 per seat.
4. Prepare for cash-only environments. Carry plenty of Quetzales. Outside of Antigua and Guatemala City, many small shops, boat taxis, and entrance fees for remote ruins do not accept credit cards.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Always drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.

Should I use public 'chicken buses'?

If you are an experienced traveler with limited luggage, they are an adventure. For most, shared tourist shuttles are much safer and more comfortable.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

In tourist areas like Antigua and Lake Atitlán, basic English is common. Learning 'por favor' and 'gracias' goes a long way.