You can get from Semuc Champey to Guatemala City by bus, shared shuttle, or rental car.
The cheapest option is by public bus, which costs around USD 12. However, the journey takes about 11 hours.
The most popular option is the shared shuttle, which offers the most comfortable and convenient alternative.
The fastest way is by rental car, which takes about 6.5 hours.
From catching early-morning buses to late-night tuk-tuk rides, Guatemala’s transportation has been my daily diary. Let me share insider tips for getting around easily and making the most of your Guatemalan journey!
Transportation Options from Semuc Champey to Guatemala City
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shuttle | 9 hrs | $41 |
| Public Bus | +11 hrs | ~$12 |
| Rental Car | ~6.5 hrs | – |
1. Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 9 hours
Our first recommendation is to take a shared van shuttle!
It’s a safe and affordable method of transport that is easily accessible daily! The shuttle will pick you up at Gasolinera Exxon, Lanquin, and arrive in Los Antojitos Zona 7 in Guatemala City.
You will travel a pretty long distance, but getting on this van is far more comfortable, faster than taking the bus, and cheaper than paying for a taxi.
Check out the departure time so you don’t miss your ride to Guatemala City!
Shared Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00am | 05:00pm | 9h | $41 |  |
2. Public Bus
Journey Duration: +11 hours
In Central America, decommissioned US school buses are reincarnated and given new life. Repainted and rechristened, these are now a tropical intercity transportation option worth taking.
We’re talking about the Guatemalan chicken buses! For travelers, a journey on one of these is an immersive Guatemalan experience and a nostalgic ride.
This type of transport will save you a lot of money, but we can’t say the same about time.
This option will take way longer than any other transport; therefore, it’s not so recommended for longer trips.
But if you don’t mind all of that and are craving some adventure, go ahead and get on a chicken bus from Semuc Champey to Guatemala City!
Remember that you might need to make stops and switch between buses. For this info, ask a local or the driver once again.
3. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 6 hours 20 minutes
If you’re considering renting a car to get around Guatemala, we think it’s a great idea! But only if you feel comfortable driving through the crazy Guatemalan roads.
It’s an affordable and convenient way to explore independently, but renting a car to travel from Semuc Champey to Guatemala City will take a few steps.
To rent a car, you might need to head to the closest town, Lanquin, and get your vehicle there. This can usually be done by taxi.
Besides that, you can hit the road, drive through the breathtaking jungle, and arrive in Guatemala City in no time!
Driving with a car is the fastest way to pass the long distance between Semuc Champey and Guatemala City, and it’s well worth the price!
You can get fantastic rental deals in Guatemala and hit the road for an extraordinary adventure!
Best day tours in Guatemala City
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Semuc Champey a city?
Near the Q’eqchi’ Maya town of Lanquin, Semuc Champey is an essential natural monument in Guatemala’s Alta Verapaz department. It consists of a limestone bridge over the Cahabón River, which is 300 meters long.
How far is it from Semuc Champey to Guatemala City?
The road distance between Semuc Champey and Guatemala City is 285.2 kilometers or 177.2 miles. Therefore, depending on your chosen transport method, you can get to Guatemala City in 6 to 11 hours.
What is the main method of transportation in Guatemala?
Guatemalans rely primarily on buses for transportation, and many travelers prefer them to save money. These public buses are often referred to as “chicken buses.”
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