What is the best transport in Guatemala, and how to get around?

Whether or not to travel by plane to and in Guatemala?

• Flight time from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Guatamala City (AMS-GUA) is about 17 hours on average. The duration of the flight depends of course on whether you have a direct flight or one with a stopover.
• Domestic flights are frequent and fine. Since 1994, the five main Central American airlines have merged. This union issues so-called "Mayan Airpasses," which allow you to fly cheaply back and forth between Guatemala and neighboring countries.

Whether or not to travel by train in Guatemala?

• Guatemalan railroads are being phased out bit by bit. There are even proposals to privatize them completely, which probably means they will only be used for freight transport. But you don't miss much. The trains are very tawdry and barely run. There is only one rail line between Guatemala City and Puerto Barrios. One reason to take the train anyway is the "couleur locale" on the train and the fact that you are taken past places you normally don't get to see.

Whether or not to travel by bus in Guatemala?

• The bus has the role of national means of transportation in Guatemala. Every time, it is a matter of waiting to see what type of bus you will find, but with any luck, you can cover the longer distances (at least 6-8 hours) with a coach. The smaller trips invariably involve buses that appear to be able to carry far more people than allowed by law. As such, they call it "the chicken bus.

Whether or not to travel by car in Guatemala?

• You can also explore Guatemala by rental car. However, it is not the most convenient way, as the road surface is not of the best quality, nor is it very safe. Make sure not to travel alone and not to travel far after sunset. Also, try to deviate from the known roads as little as possible.

Whether or not to travel by taxi in Guatemala?

• If you want to travel by cab, discuss the fare with the driver in advance.