Quetzaltenango (Xela) serves as a key transportation hub in Guatemala's western highlands, primarily relying on a central bus terminal, known as Minerva Terminal or Terminal de camionetas. First-class bus companies also operate from their own stations within the city. Taxis are widely available at these terminals and throughout the urban area.
From Guatemala City (La Aurora International Airport - GUA):
First-class Bus:: A highly recommended and cost-effective option. Companies like Transportes Alamo and Linea Dorada offer services. The journey typically takes approximately 4 to 5 hours and costs between $10 and $15 USD (75-95 Quetzales). Buses usually depart every few hours. It is generally advised to avoid 'chicken buses' for this route due to comfort and safety concerns.
Shared Shuttle:: These services can take around 6 hours, often including a stop or transfer in Antigua. Costs typically range from $16 to $50 USD. Some direct shuttles might claim shorter times, but 6 hours is a common estimate for shared services.
Flight:: Direct flights from La Aurora International Airport (GUA) to Quetzaltenango (AAZ) are available, with fares ranging from $65 to $350 USD and travel times under 3 hours, including airport procedures.
Private Taxi/Car:: A taxi directly from Guatemala City can cost between $120 and $150 USD, with a driving time of approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes for the 173 km distance. Private transfers can also be arranged, starting around $110 USD for one person, with lower per-person rates for groups.
From Antigua Guatemala:
Shared Shuttle:: A popular and convenient option, shared shuttles typically cost between $27 and $50 USD. The travel duration is generally 3.5 to 5 hours.
Bus (with transfer):: One can take a 'chicken bus' to Chimaltenango (around 1 hour, Q5) and then transfer to another 'chicken bus' to Xela (approximately 3 hours, Q25). This route totals about 4 hours and costs around Q30 (approximately $4 USD). There are no direct coach buses for this route.
Private Car:: A private transfer can complete the journey in about 3 hours and 20 minutes, with costs starting from $216 USD.
From San Pedro La Laguna (Lake Atitlan):
Shared Shuttle:: Direct shared shuttles from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela take approximately 2 to 3.5 hours and cost about $30 to $35 USD (Q250). Departures are typically available in the morning and afternoon.
Boat + Shared Shuttle:: One option involves taking a boat from San Pedro La Laguna to Panajachel (about 1 hour, $8 USD), followed by a shared shuttle from Panajachel to Xela (2-3 hours, $30-35 USD). The total travel time is around 3 to 4 hours, with a combined cost of $38 to $43 USD.
Public Bus:: For a budget-friendly option, a direct 'chicken bus' from Panajachel to Xela costs around $3 USD and takes a little over 2 hours. Alternatively, one can take a bus with transfers via Solola and Los Encuentros for a similar cost.
Private Taxi:: A private taxi from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with an estimated cost of $50-$65 USD.
Check out our other pages on Quetzaltenango (Xela)
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