3 Best Ways to get from Lake Atitlan to Antigua, Guatemala

AnaMarija Mishachkovska 6 Mar 2023 Last updated: 5 Apr 2025 3 min read No comments


You can get from Lake Atitlan to Antigua, Guatemala, by shared shuttle, private transfer, or rental car.

The cheapest option is a shared shuttle,ย which costs USD 25 and takes 3 to 4 hours.

The most popular option is also the shared shuttle, offering a convenient and affordable alternative.

The fastest way is by private transfer or rental car, which takes about 2 hours.

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Lake Atitlan to Antigua, Guatemala!

Transportation Options

The following table outlines all transportation options:

MethodTimePrice
Shuttle3-4 hrs$25
Private Transfer2 hrs$190 to 265
Rental Car2 hrs

1. Shared Shuttle

Journey Duration: 3-4 hours

If you travel by shared van shuttle from Lake Atitlan to Antigua, you can board one in the lake town Panajachel.

The reliable shuttle company Atitrans operates this route, offering multiple daily departures to suit your itinerary. The journey on a shared van shuttle takes 3-4 hours, and you’ll travel with other passengers.

 You’ll also have the opportunity to take in the stunning scenery as you make your way from the serene Lake Atitlan to the vibrant city of Antigua!

Atitrans shared shuttle services also offer hotel drop-off, so you won’t have to worry about transportation to your hotel! 

Another benefit of shared van shuttles is that they are incredibly affordable, with tickets costing only USD 25! 

Shared Shuttle Schedule

The table below displays the shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEPETADURPX
09:00am12:30pm3h 30m$25
12:00pm03:00pm3h$25
04:00pm07:00pm3h$25
05:00am09:00am4h$25

2. Private Transfer

Journey Duration: Custom Time

With a private transfer, you’ll have a personal vehicle and driver, offering you complete control over your itinerary. 

You can choose your departure time and make stops to take in the sights! A private transfer also provides higher comfort, as you won’t have to share your vehicle or make stops to drop off other passengers. 

Additionally, private transfers are perfect for families or groups of friends, as they can be more cost-effective than booking multiple seats on a shared van shuttle! 

While a private transfer is typically more expensive than a shared van shuttle, it offers a more luxurious and customizable travel experience. However, once you split the cost, the price per person becomes incredibly well worth it!

Prices for a private transfer

  • 1-3 passengers: USD 190
  • 4-6 passengers: USD 215
  • 7-9 passengers: USD 230
  • 10-12 passengers: USD 265

3. Rental Car

Journey Duration: 2 hours

Rental car companies are available in most major towns around Lake Atitlan, like Panajachel, and you can choose from a range of vehicles to suit your needs and budget. 

With your rental car, you can explore the stunning scenery of Guatemala’s highlands at your own pace and stop at various points of interest. 

A rental car provides maximum flexibility and is also cost-effective if you travel around more frequently. 

Additionally, it’s important to note that driving in Guatemala can be challenging due to narrow roads, steep inclines, and heavy traffic. If you’re comfortable driving in foreign countries and looking for a more adventurous and independent travel experience, renting a car may be the perfect choice!

Best day tours in Antigua

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. Itโ€™s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most affordable option?

The most affordable option is typically a shared van shuttle, which offers a comfortable and cost-effective way to travel between the two destinations for only USD 25!

Can I rent a car?

Yes, you can rent a car from various rental car companies in the towns around Lake Atitlan.

Is it possible to take public transportation?

Yes, it’s possible to take public transportation from Lake Atitlan to Antigua! You can board a shared van shuttle operated by Atitrans for only USD 25!

Can I take a taxi?

Technically, you can take a taxi from a town near Lake Atitlan to Antigua, Guatemala; however, this choice is not convenient. Instead, booking a private transfer with your licensed driver is better to get a better deal and avoid being scammed.

Is there Uber in Guatemala?

Yes, Uber currently operates in multiple locations in Guatemala, including Antigua!

This article was last fact-checked by Jean Nรกjera on

5 Apr 2025

Rate this post

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *