San Marcos is a unique village and has so much to offer — it’s hard to know where to begin! Check out our guide for the best options to travel from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna, Guatemala.
Guatemala’s picturesque tropical topography invites visitors to explore its nature, culture, and history. And San Marcos la Laguna is an absolute must-see destination!
The beautiful little village of San Marcos La Laguna is located around Lake Atitlan in northwestern Guatemala. With such stunning scenery, it’s no wonder that many people come here to get away from it all and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
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It has a reputation as an “energy vortex,” giving it a buzzing, almost magical feeling around the lake. Believers and non-believers alike flock here for its unique and laidback atmosphere, breathtaking views and to learn about alternative forms of healing, yoga, and spirituality.
It is filled with yoga retreats, holistic healing centers, and new-age workshops. You might call it a hippie village!
San Marcos attracts an eclectic mix of travelers from PADI-certified dive masters and cave explorers to handstand basics and urban yogis!
But it also boasts many fantastic restaurants, good-value hotels, and beautiful lakefront areas. Most of the tourist action takes place close to the lake.
Following the narrow little path leading up from the dock, you will pass most hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour agencies.
There are several even smaller paths leading off from there that are well worth exploring, but if you continue uphill, you eventually reach the main road of San Marcos la Laguna.
Take an overnight trip to Lake Atitlan, which will give you a great mix of activities without exhausting you. You can enjoy the lake from various angles, speeds, and perspectives by biking, kayaking, and hiking, by booking this tour!
Furthermore, the locals are amiable and welcoming towards outsiders, and it’s easy to get around and figure out where you want to go.
The ex-pat vibe may not be for everyone, but if you like meeting new people, exploring a new culture, and simply being outdoors, this is the place for you!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna.
Read also:
- Semuc Champey Natural Pools and Caves
- Hiking the Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala
- Best things to do In Antigua, Guatemala
How far is San Marcos la Laguna from Antigua?
The distance from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna is 83.8 miles or 134.8 kilometers. Traveling to the village takes between three and four hours, depending on how you decide to get there!
Transportation Options from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna
The following table outlines all transportation options from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Shuttle from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna | 4 hours 30 minutes | USD 27 |
| Private Transfer from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna | 2 hours 40 minutes | USD 130 |
| Taxi from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna | 2 hours 40 minutes | USD 70 to 90 |
| Rental Car from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna | 2 hours 40 minutes |
Getting to San Marcos la Laguna from Antigua
1. Shared Van Shuttle from Antigua to San Marcos La Laguna
Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Enjoy a comfortable ride in a shared minivan shuttle from Antigua to San Marcos La Laguna!
Since there is no direct public transport to San Marcos, also known as the Chicken Bus in Guatemala, this is the only option for shared transportation and the cheapest way to get there!
Even though the ride takes a bit longer, it is still a comfortable journey! Plus, the perfect way to save a few bucks on your travel.
Minivan shared shuttles are the most convenient, safe, and popular method of transportation. Tourists choose minivan-shared shuttles the most often.
There are two daily connections offered by Atitrans, although it is recommended to take the one in the morning so you can enjoy the day in San Marcos!
Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna Shuttle Schedule:
- 08:00 AM to 12:30 PM: Atitrans Shared Shuttle to San Marcos la Laguna from Antigua
Total price: USD 27
- 12:30 PM to 06:00 PM: Atitrans Shared Shuttle to San Marcos la Laguna from Antigua
Total price: USD 27
GuateGo
On GuateGo, you can check all available transportation options from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna. It is a reliable and easy-to-use platform to compare prices & schedules and make a booking online.
2. Private Transfer from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna
Journey Duration: Custom Time
Another option is to organize a private shuttle from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna, which is the most recommended option unless you are on a tight budget.
If you can find a group willing to split the cost, it is an excellent option for those who want to visit San Marcos and want a bit more freedom while on the island and not tied in by driving yourself.
Some drivers even know good restaurants and will help you get settled in San Marcos!
There is no need to worry about public transportation, walking to the station, hauling your suitcase on and off rides, etc.
Your driver will take you directly to your hotel in San Marcos, usually within three hours.
Private shuttle services can be arranged for around USD 130!
GuateGo
On GuateGo, you can check all available transportation options from Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna. It is a reliable and easy-to-use platform to compare prices & schedules and make a booking online.
3. Driving with Rental Car
Journey Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
So, if you’re wondering how to get to San Marcos la Laguna from Antigua, Guatemala, and you’re determined to go on your adventure, I recommend that you rent a car.
It may sound scary, but driving in Guatemala is not as bad as you might think.
Renting a car is an excellent option as it allows you to explore Guatemala at your own pace. It is more flexible, and you won’t get hassled by the tourist shuttle buses!
4. Uber or Taxi
Journey Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
As a last resort, you can always take a taxi or an Uber to get to San Marcos if you’re out of choices.
Taxis Mariscal and Taxis Amarillo are two famous taxi companies in Antigua that will safely take you to your destination. Just call a cab, and try to arrange a price beforehand, to get the best deal!
Expect to pay somewhere from USD 70 to USD 90.
It is also possible to use Uber in Guatemala. Solo travelers may not want to take this route unless they travel after 07:00 PM due to traffic. The route will be costly, possibly even more expensive than a cab!
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Antigua Guatemala from the ocean?
Antigua, Guatemala, is 79 kilometers from the nearest beach, Monterrico Beach. The driving distance is 110.1 kilometers.
Is Antigua Guatemala touristy?
In colonial times, La Antigua, Guatemala, was the capital of Central America. It is a World Heritage site and probably Guatemala’s most popular tourist destination.
What is the typical food in Guatemala?
Rice, beef, pork, cheese, chilies, corn, tortillas, and beans are some of the main ingredients used in Guatemalan cuisine. There are specific Guatemalan dishes to be eaten on certain days of the week. For example, Thursday is the most popular day for eating patches (Tamales).
What are the five most popular beaches in Guatemala?
Below are the country’s five best beaches for those looking to relax, soak up some sun, or try their luck at surfing:
Playa Blanca
Champerico
Monterrico
Playa Tilapa
Puerto San Jose
