You can travel from Guatemala City to Panajachel, Guatemala, by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi, or rental car.
Panajachel is a lakeside town in the southwestern part of the Guatemalan Highlands. Visitors come to Panajachel en route to Lake Atitlan, considered one of the most stunning lakes in the world.
Before leaving Guatemala City, check GetYourGuide for the best tours around Panajachel.
Travel safely and comfortably from Guatemala City by choosing from our list of the best ways to get to Panajachel, Guatemala.
How far is Panajachel from Guatemala City?
The distance from Guatemala City to Panajachel is 71 miles or 114 kilometers.
Transportation Options from Guatemala City to Panajachel
The following table outlines all transportation options from Guatemala City to Panajachel:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus from Guatemala City to Panajachel | 4+ hours | USD 6 |
| Shared Shuttle from Guatemala City to Panajachel | 6 hours 30 minutes | USD 42 |
| Private Transfer from Guatemala City to Panajachel | Custom Time | USD 215 |
| Rental Car from Guatemala City to Panajachel | 3 hours | USD 40 |
| Taxi from Guatemala City to Panajachel | 3 hours 30 minutes | USD 90 |
Getting to Panajachel, Guatemala, from Guatemala City
1. Bus from Guatemala City to Panajachel
Travel time: Four hours or more
You can catch a public bus to Panajachel at the bus station in Guatemala City.
A public bus in Guatemala is also known as a “chicken bus.” It is quite an experience to ride a public bus from Guatemala City to Panajachel. If you are up for an adventure and are not pressed for time, consider riding the public bus.
You have to know, though, that this is not the safest option to get to Panajachel. It will be very helpful if you know Spanish and are not bringing too many bags.
A one-way bus ticket from Guatemala City to Panajachel costs USD 6. It is the cheapest way to get to the gateway to Lake Atitlan.
2. Shared Shuttle from Guatemala City to Panajachel
Travel time: Five to six hours and 30 minutes
A shared shuttle is our recommended mode of transportation from Guatemala City to Panajachel. Shared shuttles can come as small vans to big buses.
You should check out Atitrans – they offer three daily shared shuttles to Panajachel.
Make sure to book in advance so the driver can schedule a pick-up at your hotel. The shuttle stops at Calle Santander y Embarcadero públic in Panajachel.
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00 AM | 11:00 AM | 5 hours | USD 42 |
| 9:30 AM | 4:00 PM | 5 hours 30 minutes | USD 42 |
| 1:30 PM | 7:00 PM | 6 hours 30 minutes | USD 42 |
3. Private Transfer from Guatemala City to Panajachel
Travel time: Custom Time
Are you coming to Panajachel from Guatemala City as a group? Better reserve a private transfer.
You get the convenience of having the vehicle to yourself, scheduling the trip as you please, and being dropped off directly at your hotel in Panajachel.
This may seem like an expensive option, but if you divide the cost amongst yourselves, you will see how it is not that expensive.
Prices for a private transfer from Guatemala City to Antigua
- USD 215 for 1 to 3 persons
- USD 245 for 4 to 6 persons
- USD 275 for 7 to 9 persons
Adrelina Tours also offers a private car option. For a maximum number of 3 passengers, the cost starts at USD 138 per person.
4. Driving with Rental Car from Guatemala City to Panajachel
Travel time: Three hours
Do you want the luxury of traveling at your own pace? Book a rental car in Guatemala City, which starts at USD 40.
When planning on driving to Panajachel, you have to consider that the road condition is not at their best, and the heavy traffic can be unbearable. You will travel a total road distance of 67 or 108 kilometers via Carr. Interamericana / Pan-American Highway / CA-1.
Driving from Guatemala City to Panajachel is an option we would suggest if you have already driven in any part of Central America.
We recommend you make a reservation in advance!
5. Uber or taxi from Guatemala City to Panajachel
Travel time: Three hours and 30 minutes
Take an Uber or taxi to Panajachel if you want to skip driving. It will cost you about USD 90 to 100 for a taxi ride from Guatemala City.
Make sure to set the fare with your driver before the journey starts. Fares tend to adjust along the way, especially when the traffic is heavy and/, or you are adding stops to your trip.
Best day tours in Panajachel, Guatemala
Have fun exploring Panajachel, Guatemala, with the help of GetYourGuide. Find tours that fit your style, mood, and budget, and browse through itineraries that feature the best of Panajachel and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is it from Guatemala City to Panajachel?
The distance between Guatemala City and Panajachel is 43 miles or 69 kilometers.
How far is Panajachel from Guatemala airport?
Panajachel is 71 miles or 114 kilometers away from La Aurora (Guatemala City) International Airport or GUA.
How do you get around Panajachel?
Panajachel is a small place. You can easily get around using Tuktuk, a three-wheel car. There are also public buses, shuttle vans, taxis, and shuttle boats.
How do I travel from Guatemala City to Panajachel without a car?
You can travel from Guatemala City to Panajachel without a car by riding on a public bus, hopping on a shuttle service, or hailing a taxi or Uber.
How much is a taxi from Guatemala City to Panajachel?
A taxi ride from Guatemala City to Panajachel can cost around USD 90 to 100.
Is there a direct bus between Guatemala City and Panajachel?
Yes, there is a direct bus between Guatemala City and Panajachel. Ideally, you can find public buses running every hour.
What is the cheapest way to get from Guatemala City to Panajachel?
The cheapest way to get from Guatemala City to Panajachel is by public bus. It will only cost you USD 6 for a one-way bus ticket.
What is the fastest way to get from Guatemala City to Panajachel?
Uber or taxi is the fastest way to get from Guatemala City to Panajachel. The local drivers would know the roads more than you do, saving you from researching routes.
How long does it take to get from Guatemala City to Panajachel?
It can take three hours to up to six hours to get from Guatemala City to Panajachel. It all depends on the mode of transport you are taking.
What is the best way to travel from Guatemala City to Panajachel?
The best way to travel from Guatemala City to Panajachel is by shared van shuttle. It is cost-effective, comfortable, and reliable.
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