Guatemala City is the biggest city not only in the country, but also in all of Central America (as long as you assume that Mexico isn’t part of Central America). Like many Latin American capitals, it is a beacon to migrants from the countryside who come looking for work. The stress of all these untrained people has left Guatemala city overcrowded and ridden with crime. It is most likely a good city to avoid, but if you do have to stay here for a few days to catch a flight or take care of some other errand, there are some interesting sites to see.

The city is commonly called ‘Guate’ by it habitants.

Orientation

Guatemala City is divided into 21 zonas, with Zona 1 being in the center and where many of the things of interest to a tourist would be. Although this area has a lot of police presence, it still has it’s share of thieves, especially around the bus stations and at night.

South of the center, in Zona 10 there are many upper class hotels and good nightlife.

The Zona Viva to the south of the city is the nicest and safest choice. Zona 1 could not be more centrally located, but one must take care at night in this area.

Click here to check accomodation availibility and prices

By Air

Guatemala Cities airport, La Aurora, has daily fights to and from the US, Mexico and many Central American countries.

Many airlines seem to have intermittent service to Guatemala. Check flights here.

Buses

Local buses go just about everywhere but are often full and sometimes unsafe. The usual fare is 1Q, 1.25Q on Sunday. Service runs till 8Pm.

Taxis

Official taxis are yellow and have meters and are obtained only by phone or in a few taxi stands. The minimum fare is 25Q.

Unofficial taxis are cheaper than yellow taxis, but do not have meters and the fare must be negotiated before getting in. Foreigners are typically overcharged. Robberies in these taxis are also common.

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Antigua is one of those places that is overrun with tourists. But if you are new to traveling in Latin America and want to break yourself in slowly, this might be a good option. Spanish Schools are everywhere here, but if you don’t have time to learn the language, you can get by quite easily here speaking English.

If you are a more seasoned traveler, you should still see Antigua. The views of the nearby volcanoes are spectacular and the colonial architecture in the city is attractive. And all the tourism has its benefits as well. Antigua offers perhaps the best dining and accommodation choices in the country.

Due to its popularity with tourists, there is a wide range of accommodation in Antigua. If you plan on studying Spanish, you can arrange a homestay with a Guatemalan family by contacting your school. If you prefer your privacy, there is everything from hippie hostels to luxurious bed and breakfasts. Have a look at accommodation options here:

During Semana Santa (in March or April ), reservations are a must and should be booked as far in advance as possible.

Antigua is only 45 kms away from the capital, Guatemala City. From the La Aurora airport shuttles run directly to Antigua until 8pm, and tickets can be purchased from any of the many travel agents. Taxis cost Q350. Tuk Tuks are generally not a good option for long distances.

For the adventurous, chicken buses to Antigua from Guatemala City at Q8 is the cheapest option. These buses are often full, and robberies are not uncommon. Keep your eyes on your luggage and wallet.

Antigua is small enough that you can walk just about anywhere. Ask local advice about safety though. If you have had to much to drink at night, best take a taxi or tuk tuk back to your hotel.

Local buses leave Antigua near the market on either Calle 5 Poniente or Calle de la Recolectos . They leave quite frequently from the Mercado to San Miguel Dueñas, Ciudad Vieja, Chimaltenango, Santa María de Jesús , Escuintla, San Antonio Aguas Calientes, San. Pedro, San. Juan and Santa. Ana.

To get to the highlands you may have to transfer in Chimaltenango. Note that like much of Central America, bus service at night is infrequent or non-existant.

Many ATMS throughout the city. This is one of the few cities that it is actually easy to exchange travelers checks (in dollars). So if you plan on going to remote locations, best to fill your wallet up here.