You can get from San Marcos La Laguna to Antigua by shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, and taxi.
The cheapest option is by shared shuttle, which costs USD 25 and takes between 3 and 4.5 hours.
The most popular option is also the shared shuttle, offering a convenient and affordable alternative.
The fastest way is by private transfer, taxi, or rental car, which takes about 2.5 hours.
Guatemala’s rich mosaics of experiences have been my canvas for learning the art of travel within its borders.
Check out our guide for the best options for traveling from San Marcos la Laguna to Antigua, Guatemala!
Transportation Options from San Marcos la Laguna to Antigua, Guatemala
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shuttle | 3-4.5 hrs | $25 |
| Private Transfer | ~2.5 hrs | – |
| Taxi | ~2.5 hrs | ~$100 |
| Rental Car | ~2.5 hrs |
1. Shared Shuttle via Panajachel
Journey Duration: 3-4.5 hours
If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable way to travel from San Marcos la Laguna to Antigua, taking the Atitrans shared van shuttles is a great option!
Atitrans is a reputable transportation company in Guatemala that offers comfortable and reliable shuttle services between many popular destinations.
The shared van shuttle is a cost-effective travel method, with tickets costing only USD 25.
Atitrans’ shared van shuttles are equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats, ensuring a pleasant journey through the scenic highlands of Guatemala.
The journey from San Marcos la Laguna to Antigua takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the shuttle you board.
The shuttle will depart from Panajachel at the Tzanjuyu Dock in front of Xocomil Tours near San Marcos la Laguna and drop you off at your hotel in Antigua, making the entire trip hassle-free and convenient!
And getting to Panajachel is pretty simple!
You can board one of the boats for only USD 8! These boats frequently depart and take 1 hour to get to Panajachel.
It’s important to note that the shared van shuttle operates on a set schedule twice daily, so booking your seat in advance is advisable to secure your spot!
Shared Van Shuttle Schedule
The table below displays the Atitrans shared shuttle timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00am | 12:30pm | 4h 30m | $25 |  |
| 04:00pm | 07:00pm | 3h | $25 | |
2. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom Time
A private transfer is an excellent option if you’re looking for a faster and more flexible way to travel from San Marcos la Laguna to Antigua!
With a private transfer, you’ll have the entire vehicle to yourself, allowing you to travel at your own pace and stop to witness the breathtaking scenery of the Guatemalan highlands.
The journey takes approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The transfer will pick you up from your San Marcos la Laguna hotel and drop you off at your hotel in Antigua.
One of the main advantages of a private transfer is the flexibility it offers. You can choose the departure time that suits you best and get to your destination in no time!
Additionally, a private transfer provides comfort and privacy that is not available with other transportation options.
It’s important to note that a private transfer is more expensive than a shared van shuttle, but the added comfort and flexibility may be worth the extra cost for some travelers.
You can book a private transfer online or through a local travel agency; booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability!
3. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
Renting a car allows you to explore the beautiful highlands of Guatemala at your own pace and on your schedule, without having to rely on public transportation or negotiate with drivers.
Several car rental companies in Guatemala offer a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.
The roads in the highlands can be narrow and winding, and the driving style can be aggressive, so it’s essential to exercise caution and stay alert at all times.
The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, and renting a car allows you to make stops to take in the beautiful scenery and explore the charming towns and villages in the highlands.
4. Taxi
Journey Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
Taxis are readily available in San Marcos la Laguna and can be easily hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel.
It’s important to note that taxi drivers in Guatemala may not always speak English, so it’s advisable to write down your destination in Spanish or use a translation app to communicate with the driver.
It’s also important to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi, as some drivers may try to charge more than the standard rate. So, you can expect to pay somewhere around USD 100.
The journey takes under 3 hours, making this one of the fastest traveling options.
One advantage of taking a taxi is that it offers the flexibility to travel any time, but we highly recommend arranging a private transfer instead of a cab.
And if you don’t have the time to do that and you’re traveling at the last minute, make sure you are at least traveling with a recommended taxi company!
Best day tours in Antigua
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is traveling from San Marcos la Laguna to Antigua safe?
The highlands of Guatemala are generally safe for travelers, but it’s essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times. It’s advisable to book transportation through reputable companies and to take necessary precautions, such as not carrying valuables in plain sight.
Where does the shuttle depart from?
The shuttles depart from the nearby town of Panajachel. You can catch a shared van shuttle at the Tzanjuyu Dock in front of Xocomil Tours.
How much is a boat ticket?
A boat ticket from San Marcos la Laguna to Panajachel costs only USD 8!
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