3 Best Ways to get from Rio Dulce to Panajachel, Guatemala

You can get from Rio Dulce to Panajachel by bus, private transfer, and rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Rio Dulce to Panajachel is by coach bus, which costs USD 68 and includes a transfer to a shared shuttle in Guatemala City. The journey takes about 10.5 hours.

The most popular option is the shared shuttle, offering a more direct route for only USD 74.

The fastest way to travel to Panajachel from Rio Dulce is by private transfer or rental car, which takes about 8 hours.

My countless journeys across Guatemala have been filled with lessons on its hidden trails and scenic byways. I’m here to share those stories and practical tips, offering a guide that’s as much about the joy of the journey as it is about the destinations themselves!

Check out our guide for the best options for traveling from Rio Dulce to Panajachel.

Transportation Options from Rio Dulce to Panajachel

The following table outlines all transportation options from Rio Dulce to Panajachel:

Method	Time	Price
Bus from Rio Dulce to Panajachel	10.5 hrs	$68
Rio Dulce to Panajachel Private Transfer	~8 hrs	–
Rental Car	~8 hrs	–

How far is Panajachel from Rio Dulce to Panajachel?

The distance from Rio Dulce to Panajachel is 245.3 miles or 394.8 kilometers.

It takes around 8 hours to travel from Rio Dulce to Panajachel by car.

Getting to Panajachel from Rio Dulce

1. Coach Bus from Rio Dulce to Panajachel

Journey Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes

Are you planning a trip from Rio Dulce to Panajachel in Guatemala? One of the most convenient, comfortable, and affordable transportation options is the Litegua Coach Bus!

Litegua operates coach buses from Rio Dulce to Panajachel, with one daily departure.

The journey takes approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, and the bus travels overnight, so you can arrive in Panajachel as early as possible and have the whole day to explore and settle there!

The coach buses are modern and air-conditioned, providing a comfortable and enjoyable ride. You’ll have ample space to stretch your legs and relax while taking in the scenic views of the Guatemalan countryside. 

Tickets for the coach bus can be purchased online in advance for only USD 68!

We recommend booking your tickets in advance to secure your seat and avoid missing your ride.

Rio Dulce to Panajachel Litegua Coach Bus Schedule

The table below displays the Litegua coach bus timetable for trips from Rio Dulce to Panajachel, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
12:30am	11:00am	10h 30m	$68

2. Private Transfer from Rio Dulce to Panajachel

Journey Duration: Custom Time

If you’re looking for a more flexible and fast transportation option from Rio Dulce to Panajachel in Guatemala, a private transfer might be the way to go!

Private transfers offer the convenience of being picked up directly from your hotel or any other designated location and dropped off at your final destination. 

You’ll have the luxury of traveling in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver who will handle all the logistics and ensure a stress-free journey.

Several private transfer companies operate in the region, offering a range of vehicles from sedans to vans to accommodate your group size and luggage needs. 

While private transfers are generally more expensive than coach buses, they offer flexibility regarding departure time and route.

You can also make stops along the way to explore attractions or scenic spots that you may not be able to visit on a bus journey.

To book a private transfer, contact a reputable company in advance and provide your pickup and drop-off details. 

The company will provide a quote and confirm your reservation so you can relax and enjoy your journey without any worries.

3. Driving with a Rental Car

Journey Duration: ~8 hours

And lastly, if you’re adventurous, you can also rent a car and travel from Rio Dulce to Panajachel!

Several car rental companies in Rio Dulce offer a range of vehicles to fit your needs. 

You can set your itinerary and explore the region at your own pace with a rental car.

You can take breaks whenever you want, stop at scenic spots, and detour to explore nearby attractions that may not be accessible by public transportation!

The journey from Rio Dulce to Panajachel takes approximately 8 hours, depending on the route and any stops. 

Driving in Guatemala can be challenging, with narrow roads, steep hills, and unpredictable traffic, it’s important to note.

However, if you’re an experienced driver and confident in your abilities, renting a car can be a great way to explore the region on your terms!

Overall, car renting is an excellent option for those who value freedom and flexibility when traveling from Rio Dulce to Panajachel. 

You can check the options and availability and book your car rental online here!

Best day tours in Panajachel, Guatemala

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Panajachel, Guatemala.

Frequently Asked Questions