Antigua Guatemala is known to be a pretty safe city within the Latin American backpacker trail, and while this is true, that doesnt mean crime doesnt occur. JJ and the driver exceeded expectations. Chicken buses that run to Panajachel or San Pedro in Lake Atitln are called las pedranas . We appreciate your time, your trust and your preference so much that we firmly believe you deserve nothing less than exceptional moments and memories. Recommended by 95% of travelers. I must admit I was a little nervous beforehand. When we left here, a driver falsely told us his bus was the one we wanted just to get us on board. With no station, it was confusing. I did have spare credit cards in my large backpack, but they were well hidden within the middle of the bag. The best way from Antigua to Lake Atitlan is by shared van for $14 USD and you can book online and it will take 2 hours and 30 minutes. Rent a Car in Antigua. The driver in our private car (arranged by our Airbnb host) was pleasant and kind and seemed to be happy to have the job. If youre traveling through Guatemala, chances are, youre going to want to head from Antigua to Lake Atitlan, or the reverse, at some point in your travels. Reason two was traffic and travel patterns were unusual because of the Semana Santa holiday. The best way to get from Antigua to Lake Atitlan is by booking a shared van shuttle. 22 reviews. I havent seen any other tourists in the village yet. Our place is just outside a Maya village named San Pablo. And, I will admit, it was somewhat intimidating given the U.S. State Departments travel warning for Guatemala City, which includes an alert about robberies on chicken buses. This turned out to be my most popular post of the 30 I did from Guatemala. Chicken buses, a boat, and tuk tuks to Lake Atitlan from Guatemala City budget travel, early retirement / By Ellen / April 16, 2017 One private taxi, four chicken buses, two tuk tuks, a boat, and an adventure to remember. The final part of the journey from Lake Atitlan to Antigua was easy again. Best tour! Get on a chicken bus at the main terminal in Antigua. They shout out Cuentros for this bus in case you need to know. Chicken Bus (Direct) Multiple Chicken Buses; Direct Shuttle; All prices in Guatemalan Quetzales. The cheapest way from Antigua to Panajachel is by chicken bus. Start time: Check availability. en $ USD. Once that turn was complete, the bus stopped, the conductor climbed up a back ladder, unhooked our bags and passed them down. Book a Private Transfer from Antigua to Panajachel. Thank you for being so wonderful! Muggings and pickpocketing happen more frequently than you might think, but if you keep your wits about you theres no reason to feel wary. Its always great to get information about the country. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Monique we appreciate so much your trust and preference. I always felt safer when my wallet and phone was zipped away, especially if I ever had to stand on a packed bus. The first tuk tuk cost about $3.57 USD. You can also take the chicken bus, a public transportation option to reach Lake Atitlan for the lowest cost. Duration: <25 minutes (or half/full-day tour). If you are staying in any of the other towns around the lake (Santa Cruz, San Pedro etc), you will need to take a lancha (boat) see more in the arriving in Lake Atitlan from Antigua section. We covered so much ground, had fun activities and our driver and tour guide were simply the best. The best way from Antigua to Panajachel is by chicken bus for $6 USD if you go on a super tight budget and it will take 6-7 hours since you have to transfer buses. 3 hours; Q30/36 per person We have been here several days now and have completed multiple tours, and everyone (especially the kids) still agree this was our favorite. The information we saw on how to take local buses from the city to the lake is sparse. Thank you so much for ranking us, we are happy to share Guatemala and the rest of Central America with all our new friends! This is how we got from Guatemala City to San Pablo La Laguna a small Mayan village on Lake Atitlan. That being said, there is always some basic precautions you can take to protect yourself. The chicken buses were leaving directly around 7 am but you were required to stay 30 minutes in advance. There may be an issue with the Instagram access token that you are using. I would always try to leave as early as possible on travel days in case of delays. Always keep your valuables in a bag in your possession at all times, such as a small backpack or handbag. I took a long chicken bus journey from my home in Antigua to my new home in Mazatenango, Guatemala aka the middle of nowhere. The third bus was also was $1.42 USD, and the fourth and last bus was $.85 for two people. 22 reviews. To get to the wonderful villages of Lake Atitlan from Antigua, you have several options. 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If youre traveling through Guatemala, chances are, youre going to want to head from Antigua to Lake Atitlan, or the reverse, at some point in your travels. If youre on a tight budget or are looking for something cultural and adventurous to do, why not take a chicken bus to Lake Atitln? Their knowledge of culture, landscape and history were exceptional. Source Duration: 3h. Mobile ticket. Thankfully, the transfer is pretty much immediate and the next bus is much more pleasant and less crowded. We had to wait only 10 minutes for the 2nd bus to leave. If you ask for the buses to Panajachel, you will easily find this area. The cheapest way from Antigua to Panajachel is by Chicken Bus for$6 USD and it will take 6-7 hours but you will have to transfer a few buses since there are no direct buses running anymore. By Chicken Bus. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. \0/ By Chicken Bus. Other nicknames make reference to the route the bus follows, for example chicken buses that run from Guatemala City to Antigua are often called la antiguea. Private and Luxury. Other nicknames make reference to the route the bus follows, for example chicken buses that run from Guatemala City to Antigua are often called la antiguea. In fact it added to the fun of the ride! keep enjoying and if we can be of further company will be an honor. There was no aircon but the windows are open so there is always a breeze and I was never too hot. Duration: 2+ hours (traffic dependent) By Helicopter. When I told locals in Antigua that I was going to live in Mazatenango, they laughed. Getting from Antigua to Lake Atitlan on the Chicken bus. Its the most convenient option if you are planning to move around and it will take you 2 hours in a private car. 3 hours; Q30/36 per person Copyright 2023 Powered by Walkabout Wes, San Pedro, Lake Atitln - 10 Best Things to Do, Where To Stay In Antigua Guatemala: Best Hostel Choices, Costa Rica Waterfalls: 12 of the Best to Visit, Subscribe to Walkabout Wes Monthly Newsletter. Children ride free if you can carry them on your lap the entire way a snag that has kept me from traveling to Guatemala on my wifes lap so far. a Tripadvisor company. Getting from Antigua to Lake Atitlan on the Chicken bus. While we were briefly there, we saw the smoking Volcan de Agua. Once I had made my first journey on chicken buses, they were always my first option for the remainder of my trip. Now go jump on a pick-up truck and enjoy your time at the lake! We do not work with affiliates or sponsors. It can seem a bit panicked and rushed but dont worry, they are genuine. Click here to book online activities in Guatemala. Take an Uber or Taxi to Lake Atitlan. Now we can totally relax. There are many options for renting a car in Antigua. Recommended by 95% of travelers. Its a logical step between two beautiful and popular tourist destinations that About 85 miles (113 km) from Guatemala City along the Panamerica Highway, the easiest way to Panajachel is by road. What Is The Distance From Antigua To Panajachel? 52. 3 hours; from $20.00. Lowest price guarantee. 0. Source He showed us around the villages outside of Antigua and shared the fascinating history of Guatemala. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experiences start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Go On a Day Tour to Lake Atitlan from Antigua. Take an Uber or Taxi to Lake Atitlan. Absolutely a top highlight of my trip to Antigua. Duration: full day (or longer) By Private Taxi or Rideshare. Summary: Chicken Bus from Lake Atitlan to Antigua. Viajamos contigo Blog de turismo fcil y barato Nos vamos contigo! 22 reviews. Maybe this is because there is no real bus station for the so-called chicken buses. While you can arrange for a private shuttle to take you between the two, youll end up paying way more than the trip is worth. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The timetable is limited, so if you cant leave in the morning you will most likely need to get a tourist bus. Feel free to use our links for discounts. I kept my phone, wallet, and camera with me at all times, even when we got off the bus to stop for lunch or toilet breaks. Start time: Check availability. Once in Antigua, which looks like an awesome place, we looked at our options to travel the rest of the way. Suuuper easy, Your email address will not be published. Im not sure there is a proper timetable for chicken buses but they are normally quite frequent. This route involves 4 buses in total and 3 changes. There are hotels mid-budget$40-60 USDand you can find luxury accommodations starting from$80 USD. Casual pace but you go to many places. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Follow on Instagram This error message is only visible to WordPress adminsError: API requests are being delayed. Lowest price guarantee. They shout out Chimal for this bus. Chicken buses from Antigua to Chimal start early in the morning, but you dont need to hurry. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By Chicken Bus. The view is incredible! Its less crowded than taking a chicken bus. thank you so much for keeping us in your mind and we are more than happy to share with all your family! Id heard so many negative stories about getting robbed, or lost, or delayed in these local buses. Mobile ticket. We left Antigua around 14:15 and we still managed to get to Lake Atitlan at around 17:30. Regardless of the stories, I took this journey with a friend I had met at, Antigua - Click Here to Read about the best things to do and where to stay, Lake Atitlan - Click here to read about the best things to do and where to stay, For more inspiration, check out these latest posts on. Most hostels, hotels or Airbnbs can recommend various shuttle services. Lake Atitln (Spanish: Lago de Atitln, [atitlan]) is a lake in the Guatemalan Highlands of the Sierra Madre mountain range. en $ USD. 3 hours; from $20.00. Q10 = $1.28(US) / $1.74(CAD) / 1.21 (Prices as of February 2023) Direct Bus from Antigua to Panajachel. Hey! Book a Private Transfer from Antigua to Panajachel. We would highly recommend! This is how we got from Guatemala City to San Pablo La Laguna a small Mayan village on Lake Atitlan. Felix took us all over the place and gave us the most perfect comprehensive Guatemalan experience. HACE CALOR! There are no rules for swimming in Lake Atitlan except dont swim around the boat traffic, because you will piss the boat drivers off if they hit you. Learn how your comment data is processed. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. When the bus is stopping always try to have an eye on your bag if you can to make sure no one accidently walks off with it. The travel time by taxi from Antigua to Panajachel is around 2 hours and the taxi fare will be around$100 USDyou can book online depending on your final destination. This obviously works in reverse if you are travelling Antigua to lake Atitlan, its the same route. Ask these questions when you make the reservation. You may struggle to find availability though so a local taxi may be a better option. New posts will not be retrieved.There may be an issue with the Instagram access token that you are using. To get to the wonderful villages of Lake Atitlan from Antigua, you have several options. Contact for collaborations hi@nomadjoseph.com, Cheap scooter rental in Siquijor (Lenara Port) island, Climbing Volcan Tajumulco Without a Guide, Diving in Utila Getting PADI Certifications, Everything you need to know about Semuc Champey, How and where to get TIMS card and ACAP permit in Kathmandu. Click here to get the best deals for accommodation with Booking, You can readHeymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. Private and Luxury. The bus will probably already be very full when you get on, so be prepared to stand or straddle the two isle seats, one cheek precariously on each seat. At the end, we even got dropped off at our preferred location instead of back at the office. CHICKEN BUSES FROM ANTIGUA TO PANAJACHEL, LAKE ATITLAN (CHEAPEST WAY), BY TAXI, UBER AND PRIVATE TRANSFER FROM ANTIGUA TO PANAJACHEL, Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance, Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included, Click here to get the best deals renting a car in Guatemala. Bookings. Guatemalans call the chicken bus in Spanish la camioneta, la burra, or el bus. Other nicknames make reference to the route the bus follows, for example chicken buses that run from Guatemala City to Antigua are often called la antiguea. Guatemala is not the safest country to visit. Panajachel is the most accessible place to get to if you plan to travel from Antigua to Lake Atitlan by bus. Duration: <25 minutes (or half/full-day tour) By Rental Car. Do you have any recommendations for arranging a shuttle? This is an independent site for budget slow travel. (The above picture shows the bus area to the extreme left, behind that wall. Much more comfortable than the average chicken bus. Duration: <25 minutes (or half/full-day tour) By Rental Car. Where is Mazatenango? The chicken bus to Lake Atitlan departs at Antiguas main bus station near the market (check location here). Required fields are marked *. I took a long chicken bus journey from my home in Antigua to my new home in Mazatenango, Guatemala aka the middle of nowhere. When you get there, ask one of the drivers for Panajachel and they should be able to direct you to the proper bus! 3 hours; Q30/36 per person We are so happy for your 10th Anniversary! There is no supermarket here. Chicken buses are what expats call public buses in Guatemala and they are one of the things that Guatemala is known for. As always, a very helpful and practical guide to getting where you want to go. Panajachel is the most accessible place to get to if you plan to travel from Antigua to Lake Atitlan by bus. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. You can hire a private boat to take you, but I dont know how much those are. July 5, 2021 | Tagged: Guatemala. Error: API requests are being delayed for this account. There are many tour companies in every village in Lake Atitlan that can arrange a shuttle to Antigua. Public bus (chicken bus) Private transfer Its important to note that all shuttles will stop in Panajachel for Lake Atitlan. Travelling by chicken bus, Panajachel to Antigua: On day 547 of my present travels, I travel by chicken bus from Panajachel to Antigua. 1st bus Antigua to Chimal. You can see a complete list of them on Guatemala Index page. When you get there, ask one of the drivers for Panajachel and they should be able to direct you to the proper bus! Friendly guide and driver. Thank you for your trust and preference. To get to the wonderful villages of Lake Atitlan from Antigua, you have several options. The change of buses was again seamless as soon as you exit the bus there is guys ushering you to the next one. You are more than welcome to swim anywhere but do be aware of bacterial issues that Lake Atitlan faces. For me, travelling is about the experience, about the journey, about living outside of your comfort zone. Most people you meet are genuine and honest. Chicken buses, a boat, and tuk tuks to Lake Atitlan from Guatemala City budget travel, early retirement / By Ellen / April 16, 2017 One private taxi, four chicken buses, two tuk tuks, a boat, and an adventure to remember. First chicken bus of the trip is leaving from Antigua bus terminal which is located nearby big market. The best way from Antigua to Panajachel is by chicken bus for $6 USD if you go on a super tight budget and it will take 6-7 hours since you have to transfer buses. Esperamos vernos pronto y seguir descubriendo juntos por Centro Amrica o quien sabe, quizs Colombia, Argentina o Per. These are two of the most popular destinations in Guatemala. They just dont like to waste time. We had Esteban and JJ as our tour guides. We were also later told that they usually try to double the price on you, but the hostel receptionist had never heard of anyone being ripped off as badly as we were. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Top Antigua landmarks between Antigua and Panajachel, Lake Atitlan. There are a few agencies like Hertz and Avis available. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experiences start time. 3. Feel free to use our links for discounts. A chicken bus from Antigua to Guatemala City currently costs 10Q ($1.25) one way. Hope we can share more time and explore around Guatemala. New posts will not be retrieved. Recommended by 95% of travelers. Feel free to use our links for discounts. Required fields are marked *. Sometimes it may be put at the back of the bus (inside), sometimes on the roof, and sometimes under the carriage in the storage. Our rental is not in San Marcos a tourist mecca for marketed with yoga retreats and holistic week getaways. You need to go to the Rebuli Bus stop found on the main road in the north-west of Pana town. We still are carrying large, heavy bags because we have things like pillows and an automatic coffee machine. A taxi will cost in the region of Q500 so by far the most expensive option as expected. How to get from Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan. Your email address will not be published. The driver was clearly very frantic about the weather, and because we didnt know any better, he ripped us off for it big time. You can always double check you are on the right bus by asking the driver. But we got off the boat at the San Marcos dock at the advice of our new Airbnb host because the path from that dock to the road is less of an incline (again, the bags play a role in our travel decisions). Journey Duration: 3 4 hours. It was a blast and really cool to learn about the chicken buses and culture of the city. Ages 3-101, max of 22 per group. At the dock, we paid $7.14 USD for two people on the public boat to go from Pana (as the locals call it) to the San Marcos dock. Duration: 2+ hours (traffic dependent), By Private Tour. This tour is amazing!! Regardless of the stories, I took this journey with a friend I had met at Spanish school. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. If you are backpacking in Guatemala, you are more than likely to travel between Lake Atitlan and Antigua at some point on your trip. The shared transfer is around 2 hours and 30 minutes. Children ride free if you can carry them on your lap the entire way a snag that has kept me from traveling to Guatemala on my wifes lap so far. This is how we got from Guatemala City to San Pablo La Laguna a small Mayan village on Lake Atitlan. This website utilizes ads and affiliate links. This journey should cost you no more than Q25 depending how far away you are. One private taxi, four chicken buses, two tuk tuks, a boat, and an adventure to remember. Getting from Antigua to Lake Atitlan on the Chicken bus. QUICK ANSWER: How To Get From Antigua To Lake Atitlan. Its less crowded than taking a chicken bus. The van fare from Antigua to Panajachel is$14 USDper person and you canbook online. As soon as you get off the bus there will be guys asking where you are going. When I told locals in Antigua that I was going to live in Mazatenango, they laughed. Thanks for the love guys. Plus: we had a fun adventure to boot! When the bus is stopping always try to have an eye on your bag if you can to make sure no one accidently walks off with it. Taking the Chicken Bus from Antigua to Lake Atitlan This is the cheapest way, but it can also be a bit tricky. The total travel time by chicken bus is around 6-7 hours and you will have to pay around $6 USD and you will have to transfer buses 3-4 times. You can go as far as a Panajachel (Lake Atitlan) for only 30Q ($4) from Antigua. Account. a Tripadvisor company. Youre only cruising for 20 minutes, but youll get to enjoy unrivalled views as the sun sinks below the volcanoes and the lake lights up. Lowest price guarantee. Antigua, Central Highlands. If youre sick with a head cold like me, it might be murder on your already highly pressurized ears. Taking the Chicken Bus from Antigua to Lake Atitlan This is the cheapest way, but it can also be a bit tricky. We didnt find this out until we reached the hostel and he and his crappy boat that felt like it was going to break apart each time it hit a swell were long gone. Nomad Joseph 2023. You can try asking locals if your Spanish is ok. We caught the bus at 10.25am. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experiences start time will not be accepted. Duration: 3-4 hours minimum (traffic dependent) Although the idea of riding in the back of an old American school bus all the way from Antigua to Lake Atitln might be an appealing one, the reality is that youll be in for a I travelled many times on local buses and never had any problems. Lake Atitlan is famous for its magnificent sunsets, and the Panajachel cruise is the best way to see it. Mobile ticket. We had not eaten and Esteban offered to stop at a Deli and we had empanadas, coffee, and tea. 2. Total cost is Q38.50 (2022) and takes about 3.5 hours. Heres the story. Together we had the confidence to do it. It was a harsh lesson, but one we learned from. Tourist shuttles, schmorist shuttles. Account. (Note Uber does exist in Guatemala City, but I dont have a SIM card at the moment and cannot always rely on Wifi. Used by the locals, the chicken buses are very cheap and affordable. This bus gets into some pretty high elevation, practically climbing a mountain. Before our arrival at the office, I had to message the company to inform them we would be a little late. Bus from Antigua to Lake Atitlan. Take the Shuttle from Antigua to Lake Atitlan. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. However, especially when traveling alone, its always best to be cautious and aware. And reason four: who wants to take a tourist shuttle? We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Antigua, Central Highlands. He offered to take our photos and even suggested lunch spots. Excellent tour! Reason one to take a private car at least some of the way to Lake Atitlan our perceived safety. Your email address will not be published. The best way from Antigua to Panajachel is by sharing a transfer direct to your hotel. This tour was fantastic! Bus from Antigua to Lake Atitlan. No pressure to purchase anything but you will love everything you see. 1. This is the best way to begin your time in Guatemala! Thank you! Your larger/main backpack may not always be with you on the local buses. On most of the buses my friend and I had two seats each to ourselves as the buses were never totally packed. Ive seen shuttle prices and private driver prices ranging from $35 all the way up to $90, and even higher! Its a logical step between two beautiful and popular tourist destinations that en $ USD. Read our fullHeymondo Travel Insurance Review, You can getSafetywing Travel Insurancefor Digital Nomads valid for 28 daysSafetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included. I am Joseph travel, nature and adventures addict. I took a long chicken bus journey from my home in Antigua to my new home in Mazatenango, Guatemala aka the middle of nowhere. Q10 = $1.28(US) / $1.74(CAD) / 1.21 (Prices as of February 2023) Direct Bus from Antigua to Panajachel. I encourage you to take the chicken bus from Lake Atitlan to Antigua for a true local experience. Do you really need a million dollars to retire and travel the world? Published February 21, 2019. The distance fromAntigua to Panajachel is 77 kilometers. Luckily, we double checked with a local on board to find out he had lied to us in enough time to get off and get the right bus. Wow dear Asheaka! The easiest way to do this is to take a Lancha (small boat) to Pana from wherever you are on the lake. Thank you so much dear Hannah! We saw buses on Calle 21 and Calle 41 in different zones of Guatemala City lined up on the road. Plus Uber isnt on my good side lately). Chicken buses from Antigua to Chimal start early in the morning, but you dont need to hurry. This was one of the many highlights of our trip to Guatemala! However, since there is no luxury bus that runs between the two, that means youre left with chicken buses. We learned a lot about chocolate, wine and coffee at stops along the way. QUICK ANSWER: How To Get From Antigua To Lake Atitlan. Your email address will not be published. Duration: 2+ hours (traffic dependent) By Helicopter. It's a great way to see the area like a local. Duration: 2+ hours (traffic dependent) By Private Tour. A total of$10-20USDwould be the range of your budget for accommodation in Panajachel. Chicken buses are what expats call public buses in Guatemala and they are one of the things that Guatemala is known for. On most of the buses my friend and I had two seats each to ourselves as the buses were never totally packed. By Shared Shuttle. The timetable is limited, so if you cant leave in the morning you will most likely need to get a tourist bus. Why? By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. The chicken bus to Lake Atitlan departs at Antiguas main bus station near the market (check location here). The cost for two people was $35. I do it full-time and this blog is to help you do it also! Chicken buses are what expats call public buses in Guatemala and they are one of the things that Guatemala is known for. But, as much as Ive harped on Tedly that we should lighten the load, I am so glad to have the coffee machine because our new rental only has a french press. We only had to wait 5 minutes for this bus to leave. You deserve the best of the best, was great having the opportunity to meet you and JJ says your icecreams & sweets will be safe with him.