How to travel Guatemala by chicken bus
Traveling by chicken bus is the most affordable and authentic way to get around Guatemala. To do it, simply show up at the local bus terminal, listen for the destination shouted by the 'ayudante' (helper), and pay your fare in cash once the bus is moving.
- Find the bus station. Every town has a main transit hub or a specific street corner where buses congregate. Ask locals, '¿De dónde salen los buses para [Destination]?' (Where do the buses for [Destination] leave from?).
- Identify your bus. Don't look for a sign; look for the ayudante leaning out the door. They shout the final destination constantly. Confirm the destination with them before hopping on.
- Board and find a seat. These buses are former US school buses. Seats are tight. If you have a large backpack, the helper will likely throw it on the roof and secure it with a rope; keep your valuables in a small daypack on your lap.
- Pay the fare. You don't buy a ticket beforehand. The ayudante will walk down the aisle while the bus is in motion to collect fares. Carry small denominations of Quetzales, as they rarely have change for large bills.
- Signal your stop. Chicken buses don't have formal stops. Shout '¡Baja!' (Getting off!) loudly when you reach your destination so the driver pulls over.
- Is it safe to ride chicken buses?
- They are generally safe for daytime travel between popular hubs. Avoid night travel and keep your personal bag on your lap at all times.
- How do I know where the roof rack bags are going?
- The ayudante keeps track of who owns which bag. When you get off, remind them, 'Mi mochila' (my backpack), and they will climb up to retrieve it.