You can get from Antigua to El Paredon by bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, taxi, or rental car.
The cheapest option is by bus, which costs about USD 10. The journey takes about 4.5 hours.
The most popular option is the shared shuttle, the most comfortable and convenient alternative.
The fastest way is by private transfer, taxi, or rental car, which takes about 2.5 hours.
Over my many journeys in Guatemala, the country’s roads and I have become old friends, and I’ve learned a thing or two about getting around.
This article is your go-to guide for traveling from Antigua to El Paredon. It breaks down each transportation option so you can travel with ease!
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shuttle | 4.5 hrs | $29 |
| Tourist Bus | 4.5 hrs | ~$10 |
| Chicken Bus | 6 hrs | |
| Private Transfer | ~2.5 hrs | |
| Rental Car | ~2.5 hrs | |
| Taxi | ~2.5 hrs |
1. Shared Shuttle
Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
This is the most common way tourists travel since it’s easy, affordable, and convenient! The tickets cost only USD 26, and you’ll get from Antigua to El Paredon in only 4 hours and 30 minutes!
Additionally, these shuttles provide door-to-door service, reducing the hassle of getting to a pickup point and finding a taxi afterward!
Atitrans provides one shuttle departure daily, so save your seats in advance!
Atitrans Shared Shuttle Schedule:
The table below displays the Atitrans shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00am | 01:30pm | 4h 30m | $26 |  |
2. Tourist Bus
Journey Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Multiple companies in Antigua provide bus service to El Paredon.
Tourist buses from Antigua to El Paredon offer convenience, security, and comfort, making them an excellent choice for travelers!
Even though they are more expensive than chicken buses, I believe they are worth the price, which is not outrageous.
Compare prices at different Agencies in Antigua Historical Center if you are on a budget and have the time.
3. Public Bus (Chicken Bus)
Journey Duration: 6 hours
If you want to experience the Guatemalan chicken bus adventure, now is the time to do it!
There is nothing more Guatemalan than chicken buses. You’ll see these highly modified former North American school buses painted garishly throughout the country.
This is Guatemalan public transport! All buses run continuously, and they cost almost nothing. There are times when they are very crowded, and there is only standing room; sometimes, they are bumpy and a bit reckless.
Chicken buses are generally recommended for shorter trips, such as touring small villages around Antigua and Xela, but it’s also possible to catch one to reach El Paredon.
This route requires you to go to the Antigua bus stop just behind the main market, but you’ll have to transfer twice and get a tuk-tuk.
You can set out on this adventure if you are comfortable with some discomfort and risk!
4. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom Time
No queues, no delays, you will reach your destination quickly, with a great deal of flexibility and comfort!
These transfers provide a door-to-door service, so you don’t have to carry baggage across Antigua to the bus station.
There are many travel agencies throughout Antigua, and you can arrange a transfer that will allow you more comfort and flexibility when traveling. It’s a little pricey – but not if you split the costs!
5. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Renting a car to travel through Guatemala is one of the best choices you can make!
Drive to El Paredon, or anywhere else, by yourself and make your travel a fun experience!
With one of Antigua’s rentals, you can arrange your schedules, make detours, explore, and stop wherever you like!
Car rental companies offer affordable vehicles; just cover all the essential details before you set off!
6. Uber or Taxi
Journey Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
And lastly, if you run out of options and wish to reach El Paredon as fast as possible, you can always grab a taxi or an Uber.
If you are traveling in a group, this isn’t much more expensive than the shuttle and is more convenient. The fare will be anywhere from USD 75 to USD 95. Make sure to negotiate a price before departure.
Taxis Mariscal and Taxis Amarillo are two reliable taxi companies in Antigua that can take you to your destination!
However, you should remember that there are no Ubers to take you back to Antigua if you decide to return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use US dollars in Guatemala?
US dollars are by far the most accepted foreign currency in Guatemala; however, it is not a semi-official currency, so don’t go around with an armload of dollars without a single quetzal in your pocket. Try hotels or stores owned by foreigners if you want to cash in Euros or other foreign currencies.
What language do they speak in Guatemala?
Guatemala’s official language is Spanish.
How many days should I spend in El Paredon?
While there is not a lot to do in El Paredon, it’s a great place to relax – you won’t want to rush yourself, so it’s recommended that you stay for at least two nights.
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