Guatemala City is well connected with Tikal. Check out our guide for the best options to travel from Tikal to Guatemala City.
Nestled within the central highlands of Guatemala, Guatemala City is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends modernity with ancient history!
The city is the largest in the country and serves as the political and cultural capital. Its rich history dates back to the Mayan civilization, where it was once a key center of power and commerce.
Today, the city is a bustling hub of activity, with towering buildings, bustling markets, and a diverse population that combines a blend of indigenous communities, Spanish colonial heritage, and contemporary international influence.
Despite the challenges of being a fast-growing urban center, Guatemala City offers an incredible variety of experiences to those who venture into its heart.
From exploring the historic ruins of the Mayan civilization to savoring traditional local cuisine and shopping for handmade crafts, there’s something for everyone in this exciting city!
Book a guided tour here and explore the best of Guatemala City!
Traveling between Tikal and Guatemala City is easy, and you can choose between a bus, private transfer, flight, or rental car!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Tikal to Guatemala City.
How far is Guatemala City from Tikal?
The distance from Tikal to Guatemala City is 327.7 miles or 527.4 kilometers.
Traveling from Tikal to Guatemala City takes around 9 hours and 40 minutes by car.
Transportation Options from Tikal to Guatemala City
The following table outlines all transportation options from Tikal to Guatemala City:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus from Tikal to Guatemala City | 17 hours 30 minutes | USD 80 |
| Private Transfer from Tikal to Guatemala City | Custom Time | – |
| Shared Shuttle + Flight from Tikal to Guatemala City via Flores | ~5 hours | USD 230+ |
| Rental Car via Flores | 9 hours 40 minutes | – |
Getting to Guatemala City from Flores
1. Bus from Tikal to Guatemala City
Journey Duration: 17 hours 30 minutes
Traveling by bus is a popular option for those looking to get from Tikal to Guatemala City.
One of the most convenient ways to do this is by taking a long-distance luxury bus. This mode of transportation offers comfort and ease, making the 17-hour journey a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Luxury buses from Tikal to Guatemala City typically depart from the nearby town of Flores, where most visitors to Tikal choose to stay. The buses are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and onboard restrooms, making the journey comfortable and convenient.
Although the trip lasts for over a day, you will make multiple stops along the way to allow passengers to stretch their legs and grab a bite to eat.
The scenic route passes through the lush jungle and rolling hills of the Guatemalan highlands, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The bus company Maya de Oro offers one daily departure from Tikal to Guatemala City, so be sure to book your tickets in advance, as the luxury buses are often in high demand!
Tikal to Guatemala City Coach Bus Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:30 PM | 06:00 AM | 17 hours 30 minutes | USD 80 |   |
2. Private Transfer from Tikal to Guatemala City
Journey Duration: Custom Time
Another option for getting from Tikal to Guatemala City is by private transfer.
This mode of transportation offers a comfortable, direct, and convenient way to travel, providing a more personalized experience compared to a shared bus or shuttle.
Private transfers can be arranged in advance and include door-to-door service, with a driver meeting you in Tikal and taking you directly to your destination in Guatemala City!
This option is especially convenient for those who want to avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation and want a stress-free journey.
Private transfers are also great for those who value comfort and privacy. The vehicles used for private transfers are typically well-maintained, air-conditioned, and equipped with comfortable seating, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Some private transfer companies even offer luxury vehicles, providing extra comfort and style for those who want to travel in style.
There are several options available when booking a private transfer from Tikal to Guatemala City. Many visitors book their transfer through their hotel or tour operator, while others book directly with a private transfer company.
It’s important to book in advance, as private transfers are often in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons!
3. Shared Shuttle + Flight from Tikal to Guatemala City via Flores
Journey Duration: ~5 hours
You can also travel from Tikal to Guatemala City by combining a shared shuttle from Tikal to Flores and a flight from Flores to Guatemala City.
This mode of transportation offers a convenient and fast way to travel, with the added bonus of taking a scenic flight to your final destination!
To get from Flores to Tikal, you can get on the shared van shuttle, which departs once daily. The shared shuttle from Tikal to Flores takes approximately 4 hours, and the tickets cost USD 30.
Tikal to Flores Shared Shuttle Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:30 PM | 04:30 PM | 4 hours | USD 30 | |
But if the departure time doesn’t fit your schedule, you can also grab a taxi to go directly to Flores, or the airport, for about USD 45-USD 60.
From Flores, you can take a flight to Guatemala City and arrive at your destination in only 1 hour!
There are multiple daily flights operated by TAG Airlines, with tickets costing USD 200.
This option is ideal for those who want to avoid a long road journey and want to reach their destination in the shortest amount of time!
You can also check out the flight schedule and book your tickets online here!
Flores to Guatemala City Flight Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00 AM | 09:00 AM | 1 hour | USD 200 | |
| 01:00 PM | 02:30 PM | 1 hour 30 minutes | USD 200 | |
| 06:30 PM | 07:30 PM | 1 hour | USD 200 | |
4. Driving with Rental Car
Journey Duration: 9 hours 40 minutes
A final option for getting from Tikal to Guatemala City is by rental car. However, in order to rent a car, you will first have to get to the nearest car rental company in Flores.
This mode of transportation offers the flexibility and freedom to explore the area at your own pace and make stops along the way.
Rental cars can be arranged in advance and picked up in Flores, the nearby town to Tikal, where most visitors to Tikal choose to stay.
From Flores, you can drive the approximately 10-hour trip to Guatemala City, taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding countryside along the way.
Driving a rental car from Tikal to Guatemala City provides the freedom to make stops along the way, whether it be to take in the views, visit local attractions, or grab a bite to eat!
The scenic route passes through the lush jungle and rolling hills of the Guatemalan highlands, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
There are many affordable options available when booking a rental car from Tikal to Guatemala City.
We recommend booking in advance to get the best deals!
Best day tours in Guatemala City, Guatemala
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
The following widget shows some of the best tours in Guatemala City, Guatemala.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to get from Tikal to Guatemala City?
The quickest way to get from Tikal to Guatemala City is by combining a shared shuttle from Tikal to Flores with a flight from Flores to Guatemala City. The shuttle takes approximately 4 hours, and the flight takes approximately 1 hour, making this the quickest and most efficient way to travel!
What is the cheapest way to get from Tikal to Guatemala City?
The cheapest way to get from Tikal to Guatemala City is by bus, which costs only USD 80. This mode of transportation is cost-effective compared to private transfer and rental car options, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget.
What are the road conditions like when driving from Tikal to Guatemala City?
The road conditions when driving from Tikal to Guatemala City vary, with some areas having well-maintained roads and others being more rugged and less developed. It is important to take precautions when driving in rural areas and to familiarize yourself with the road conditions before setting out on your journey.
Can I rent a car in Tikal, or do I have to rent it in Flores?
To rent a car, you will have to get to the nearby town of Flores, which is about 60 kilometers away.
How much is a taxi from Tikal to Flores?
A taxi ride from Tikal to Flores is about USD 45-USD 60.
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