4 Best Ways to get from Guatemala City to Panajachel, Guatemala

You can get from Guatemala City to Panajachel by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, or rental car.

The cheapest option for traveling from Guatemala City to Panajachel is the public bus, which costs around USD 6 and takes a bit over four hours.

The most popular option is the shared shuttle, offering the most convenient alternative at an affordable price.

The fastest way to travel to Panajachel from Guatemala City is by private transfer or rental car, which takes about 3.5 hours.

“I’ve explored Guatemala from every angle, using every mode of transport available.

I’m excited to share my knowledge and help you travel the country’s varied landscapes and get from Guatemala City to Panajachel confidently and efficiently!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Guatemala City to Panajachel.

Transportation Options from Guatemala City to Panajachel

The following table outlines all Guatemala transportation options from Guatemala City to Panajachel:

Method	Time	Price
Bus from Guatemala City to Panajachel	+4 hrs	~$6
Shuttle from Guatemala City to Panajachel	4 hrs	$40 to 42
Guatemala City to Panajachel Private Transfer	3.5 hrs	$215 to 275
Rental Car	3.5 hrs	–
Taxi from Guatemala City to Panajachel	3.5 hrs	–

How far is Panajachel from Guatemala City?

The distance from Guatemala City to Panajachel is 67 miles or 108 kilometers.

Getting to Panajachel from Guatemala City

1. Public Bus from Guatemala City to Panajachel

Journey Duration: 4+ hours

Are you traveling on a small budget and/ or looking for an adventure?

Then, taking the public bus from Guatemala City to Panajachel might be your best option!

Embarking on a journey from Guatemala City to Panajachel via public bus, locally known as a “chicken bus,” offers an adventurous and culturally immersive experience.

This budget-friendly option, priced at just USD 6 for a one-way ticket, stands as the most economical route to the gateway of Lake Atitlan.

The departure point is the bustling bus station in Guatemala City, easily accessible from various parts of the city.

While the journey is not the quickest or the safest compared to other modes of transport, it compensates with its unique charm and local flavor.

We recommend taking the public bus only when speaking Spanish and traveling with small luggage.

Be aware that the buses don’t have air conditioning and can be pretty full, and we don’t recommend taking them after dark.

2. Our recommendation: Shared Shuttle from Guatemala City to Panajachel

Journey Duration: 4 hours

Traveling from Guatemala City to Panajachel in a shared shuttle offers a balance between comfort and cost. It caters especially to those seeking a more relaxed journey than the public bus.

These shuttles provide a convenient and safer alternative, with more comfortable seating and a smaller group of fellow travelers.

Typically departing several times a day from designated pick-up points in Guatemala City, these shuttles can be easily booked in advance.

Atitrans and Magic Travel offer multiple daily shared shuttles to Panajachel. The driver will pick you up at your hotel in Guatemala City and drop you off at Calle Santander y Embarcadero público in Panajachel.

However, you will have to transfer to a different shuttle in Antigua, where you will make one stop, but this transfer is included in the price!

While slightly more expensive than the public bus, the shared shuttle remains affordable, with prices ranging from USD 40 to USD 42!

Guatemala City to Panajachel Shared Shuttle Schedule

The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable for Guatemala City to Panajachel trips, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
11:00am	03:30pm	4h 30m	$40
02:00pm	07:00pm	5h	$40
06:00am	11:00am	5h	$42
09:30am	03:30pm	6h	$42
01:30pm	07:00pm	5h 30m	$42

3. Private Transfer from Guatemala City to Panajachel

Journey Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

A private transfer is the most comfortable way to travel to Panajachel. Opting for a private transfer from Guatemala City to Panajachel blends luxury, convenience, and personalization, ideal for those who prioritize comfort and safety.

This premium option allows travelers to enjoy a direct and hassle-free journey in the privacy of their vehicle.

With door-to-door service, the private transfer picks you up from your location in Guatemala City. It delivers you straight to your destination in Panajachel, offering unparalleled ease, especially for those with significant luggage or traveling in groups.

Although a private transfer costs more than public buses or shared shuttles, its comfort and flexibility justify the extra expense.

We recommend this option, especially for families and groups. Depending on the number of people you are traveling with, the price per person is actually not much higher than for a shared shuttle!

Prices for a private transfer to Panajachel:

• 1 to 3 passengers: USD 215
• 4 to 6 passengers: USD 245
• 7 to 9 passengers: USD 275

4. Driving with a Rental Car from Guatemala City to Panajachel

Journey Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

The distance between Guatemala City and Panajachel is only 67 miles or 108 kilometers, so traveling by rental car is also a great option!

Renting a car for the journey from Guatemala City to Panajachel gives you the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace.

This option is ideal for those who value independence and wish to venture beyond the standard route, perhaps stopping at hidden gems or scenic spots along the way!

Driving in Guatemala presents its own set of challenges and adventures. It’s essential to be cautious and aware of local driving conditions.

Prices for rental cars can vary, but they usually start around USD 30 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental duration. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and ensure the availability of your preferred vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions