4 Best Ways to get from Tikal to Semuc Champey, Guatemala

You can get from Tikal to Semuc Champey by public bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, or rental car.

The cheapest option to travel from Tikal to Semuc Champey is by public bus, which costs USD 30, including all the transfers. The journey takes about 13 hours.

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

The fastest way to travel to Semuc Champey from Tikal is by private transfer or rental car, which takes about 10 hours.

My travels through Guatemala’s beautiful landscapes have equipped me with a deep knowledge of its transport intricacies.

This guide distills that expertise, offering a comprehensive look at how to travel from Tikal to Semuc Champey confidently and easily!

Check out our guide for the best options for traveling from Tikal to Semuc Champey.

Transportation Options from Tikal to Semuc Champey

The following table outlines all transportation options from Tikal to Semuc Champey:

Method	Time	Price
Shuttle from Tikal to Semuc Champey via Flores	13 hrs	$74
Tikal to Semuc Champey Public Bus via Flores	~13 hrs	–
Tikal to Semuc Champey Private Transfer	~10 hrs	–
Rental Car	~10 hrs	–

How far is Semuc Champey from Tikal?

The distance from Tikal to Semuc Champey is 197.4 miles or 317.7 kilometers.

It takes about 9-10 hours to travel from Tikal to Semuc Champey by car.

Getting to Semuc Champey from Tikal

1. Shared Shuttle from Tikal to Semuc Champey via Flores

Journey Duration: 13 hours

One convenient transportation option for getting from Tikal to Semuc Champey is to take a shared van shuttle. This method involves two separate shuttles: one from Tikal to Flores and another from Flores to Semuc Champey.

Shared van shuttles are a popular choice among travelers in Guatemala, as they are relatively affordable and provide a comfortable and convenient way to travel between destinations. 

The first shuttle from Tikal to Flores takes approximately 4 hours and departs once daily.

However, if you take two shuttles to travel from Tikal to Semuc Champey, you can’t make the entire trip on the same day since the shuttle from Flores to Semuc Champey departs earlier than that from Flores.

Tikal to Flores Shared Van Shuttle Schedule

The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable for trips from Tikal to Flores, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
12:30pm	04:30pm	4h	$30

Therefore, once you arrive in Flores, you’ll have a day to explore the charming town before your next shuttle.

But if you want to get to Flores before the shuttle departure to Semuc Champey, we recommend taking a taxi from Tikal, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs approximately USD 60.

The second shuttle from Flores to Semuc Champey takes approximately 9 hours and is a longer and more winding journey through the mountains. However, the stunning scenery makes the trip well worth it.

This shuttle will take you as far as Lanquin; from there, you can easily make your way to Semuc Champey! Find out all the details in our guide on how to get from Lanquín to Semuc Champey, Guatemala!

This shuttle also has only one daily departure, early in the morning, and you can get your tickets for only USD 44.

Flores to Semuc Champey Shared Van Shuttle Schedule

The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable for Flores to Semuc Champey trips, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
08:00am	05:00pm	9h	$44

The shuttle will make stops along the route for breaks and to stretch your legs and may also make additional stops to pick up and drop off other passengers.

You can get the tickets for both shuttle services online in advance to save your seat!

2. Public Bus from Tikal to Semuc Champey via Flores

Journey Duration: ~13 hours

Another transportation option for getting from Tikal to Semuc Champey is to take a taxi or shuttle from Tikal to Flores and then catch a public bus to Semuc Champey.

However, remember that this is a long and tiring journey that requires many transfers and a travel time of over 13 hours, so only go with it if you’re an adventurous and experienced traveler looking for a taste of local Guatemalan life.

From Tikal, you can either hire a taxi, which takes about 1.5 hours or take a shared shuttle to Flores, which takes 4 hours. 

The first part of the trip to Flores is quite simple, but if you want to learn more, you can check out our detailed guide on getting from Tikal to Flores, Guatemala!

Once you arrive in Flores, you must go to the bus stop and catch a public bus to Coban.

Then, you’ll take a pickup truck or a local van to Lanquin, the nearest town to Semuc Champey. The journey takes over 13 hours, depending on road conditions and the number of stops the bus makes along the way.

The total cost of the trip is around USD 30. And while taking a public bus is more budget-friendly than a shared van shuttle, it can be a bit more challenging and time-consuming.

The buses can be crowded and uncomfortable and may not always run on time.

Additionally, the route between Flores and Lanquin is quite mountainous, and the roads can be winding and bumpy, which may not be suitable for travelers prone to motion sickness.

Despite these challenges, taking a public bus is a great way to experience local life in Guatemala and interact with the friendly locals.

However, a shared van shuttle may be better if you prefer a more comfortable and hassle-free journey.

To learn how to get from Flores to Semuc Champey, check out our detailed guide here!

3. Private Transfer from Tikal to Semuc Champey

Journey Duration: Custom Time

Another transportation option from Tikal to Semuc Champey is to arrange a private transfer. 

This method provides the most comfort and flexibility but is also expensive.

With a private transfer, a dedicated driver and vehicle will take you directly from Tikal to Semuc Champey.

This means you won’t have to worry about making connections or dealing with the hassle of public transportation. Plus, this way, you can make the journey in one day since the direct trip takes about 9 hours!

Private transfers are ideal for travelers who want a comfortable and stress-free journey and are willing to pay more for the convenience. They’re also an excellent option for families or groups wishing to travel together and have control over their itinerary.

However, not all companies offer this service, so you’ll need to research to find a reputable provider that can accommodate your needs and budget.

While it may be more expensive, it provides comfort, convenience, and flexibility!

4. Driving with a Rental Car

Journey Duration: ~10 hours

The fourth and final transportation option for getting from Tikal to Semuc Champey is to rent a car in Flores and drive yourself! 

This method provides the most flexibility and independence but also requires careful planning and preparation.

To rent a car, you must go to Flores, approximately 60 kilometers from Tikal. Several car rental companies in Flores offer a range of vehicles at very affordable prices. 

Once you’ve picked up your rental car, you must drive approximately 250 kilometers to Semuc Champey, which takes around 9 hours.

The scenic route takes you through picturesque villages and rugged mountain terrain. However, the roads can be narrow and winding in some sections, so you must drive carefully and be prepared for the occasional pothole or speed bump.

Renting a car is a great transportation option for those who want the freedom and flexibility to explore at their own pace. It’s also a great way to see more of Guatemala’s stunning landscapes and cultural attractions. 

However, it’s important to note that driving in Guatemala can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with local driving customs and road conditions. 

But if you’re prepared and ready to head on a road trip across Guatemala, make your pick and reserve your vehicle now!

Best day tours in Semuc Champey, 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 Semuc Champey, Guatemala.

Frequently Asked Questions