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Just pipe in a little Barry Manilow through the speakers and feel free to take a nap. The term Chicken Bus originates in Guatemala and comes from the fact that passengers would often transport live animals on them. It costs 10 quetzals (GTQ) and is the cheapest transportation method. Children ride free if you can carry them on your lap the entire way a snag that has kept me from traveling to Guatemala on my wifes lap so far. At 2Q-4.5Q ($0.37-$0.43), riding the chicken bus is almost as cheap as an ObamaPhone (or a ReaganPhone, if you want to be fair and balanced about it). READ MORE:40 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Guatemala. In this place you can find the typical rural life of the country. A win all around. What about walking, you say? In Guatemala City, you take the chicken bus from El Trebol station (Google Maps. Take a shared shuttle. One of my favorite things about Guatemala are the brightly colored "chicken buses" that ply the roads there. Often the best balance of time, money, and safety is a shared van. We Guatemalans do not call these buses chicken buses, but use various names: camionetas, canasteras or burras. Okay, cool. Vendors hop on frequently selling juice, soda, fruit, sandwiches, fresh chips. The driver slides a bootleg CD into the stereo and cranks up the volume to the max. Best to use ATMs when you get to Antigua, or exchange at bank youll probably need bills in very good condition or banks wont accept them. As seen in the documentary, La Camioneta(the local term for the vehicles), U.S. school buses are typically auctioned off after around10years or 150,000 miles. If you dont feel comfortable with it, you can take it with you inside the bus, but you have to pay an extra fare. I ask the man next to me what bus Im on. Pictures of these buses have become the quintessential Central American postcard. Which is not to say riding a chicken bus is easy. Just did a 5-hour trip myself via chicken bus and its something Im not quite ready to repeat. From Quetzaltenango you must get off at Cuatro (4) Caminos and take the next bus that goes directly to San Cristobal Totonicapan. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. To make up time (more trips = more passengers = more $$$), chicken bus drivers treat this hill as their Formula 1 racetrack. If youre carrying a backpack or luggage, the drivers assistant will take it from you and tie it to the roof rack along with the baskets and bundles of the local riders. The first song is Bryan Adams singing (Everything I Do) I Do It For You from the Robin Hood Prince of Thieves soundtrack. These are buses that were donated to Guatemala by The United. I know from the man next to me that theres buses to Mazate once we get to this new town. A post shared by Courtney | Travel Blogger (@courtneytheexplorer) on Nov 16, 2015 at 9:28am PST, Related article: How to Travel for Free, Travel Budget for Guatemala, Cheers to your adventures! Pffft! Those who grew up in North America may remember the Bluebird buses that brought them to and from school. During the entire ride, new passengers get on from the side of the rode. Remember that big yellow school bus that used to take you to and from school when you were in publicschool? Traveling around Guatemala is easy with smooth roads and many divided highways. This isbecause these colorful contraptions are, in fact, retired school buses from the United States. You can book an airport shuttle through Viator. Local writer Jake Stamp takes you on a journey from Antigua to Chimaltenango. For longer rides bring snacks and potable water; if youre feeling adventurous you might buy treats such as dried mangoes that vendors hoist to bus windows on poles; other sellers sometimes board the bus and sell their goods, then exit at the next stop. Just make sure of course that you keep anything of value with you in a small daypack and hidden money belt. With no doubt, Chicken buses are an example that Guatemala is a joyful country filled of colors and it's citizens find . As we walked to the next bus stop, I noticed my wife had shifted her walking gears to one much faster than Id ever seen her use in Antigua. Please contact us at info@GreenTravelMedia.com for more info. Heres the story. Typically, there is an emphatic exhale of black, noxious smoke every block or two, from which you are either shielding your face or waving at furiously to catch a ride. In the end, TransMetro won out, and Red Buses lost, simply because Red Bus owners have more pressing things to worry about, namely having their drivers being routinely shot in the head. In addition to photographing them, I also had the need to ride in one for the first time, from Panajachel to Solola. Chicken Buses of Antigua Guatemala - Peter's Travel Blog Really appreciate your feedback and help! I took a long chicken bus journey from my home in Antigua to my new home in Mazatenango, Guatemala aka the middle of nowhere. I was hoping there would be a bus from Antigua to the new Centra Norte Station with busses to Coban and the rest of the North and East of the country But, of course that would make things way too simple for travelers. The route starts at: Quetzaltenango Bus Terminal, ends at: San Andres Xecul Catholic Church and vice versa. Theres an entire industry of people who travel to these auctions to acquire them for $2000 or less, thendrive them back to Guatemala or other Central American countries. Finally, the driver seemed to calm down after he switched the station to Real Madrids soccer game. Raining? In this post, I'll cover all the different ways to get from Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan, including by shuttle service, chicken bus, private shuttle, and helicopter. The first time I traveled in Guatemala, I was hesitant to release my pack, wondering if Id ever see it again, but theres simply not enough room inside to allow people to carry on more than a daypack. Whats that? . Planning a trip to Guatemala: step by step, Your email address will not be published. The food sold during its street food evenings is delicious. When you get to Plaza Barrios, just do the reverse and jump on the orange line bus on the other side, which is Trebol bound. Cost is about $10USD. For example, if youre in Guatemala City on the heavily traveled Pan American Highway, there are bus stops along the route. Outside, the odds are in your favor nothing will happen. Youll have to double back two blocks from Exposiciones to reach the Immigration building. I rush off the bus and jump off while the bus is still moving. Hopefulist--links to sources? Whether youre taking chicken buses or other ground transit, its best to leave early and arrive in daylight. Roosevelt Avenue was also the playground of a band of carjackers and rapists that terrorized women at night for well over a year, a couple of years ago. There was nothing to suggest either of the two young men had any disability that would prevent them from seeking work. 11 hours? Unmasking the realities of La Aurora Airport in Guatemala and the urgent need for change. Here are the 7 ways to get to Antigua from GC Airport (6 we recommend and 1 we do not). Its seen as bad chicken bus driver etiquette for one driver to overtake another one on the same route. We stayed that way, both giggling endlessly, for half an hour as the bus swerved through the city. As for changing money, theres a global exchange kiosk inside the airport and one in Antigua. Thankfully, we made it to the bus stop where we were to take the bus to Antigua. If you ask the driver, they will drop you off right at El Trebol, though on the other side of the street, underneath an underpass. 13 reviews 5 helpful votes Cheap way from Guatemala City to Antigua (Chicken Bus?) Nevertheless, I avoid the buses on that route because our local friends have warned us that there is a high risk of theft. Purchased by companies with names like Esmeralda, Primorosa, Esperanza, Orellana, and Flor de Occidente, these majestic old transports take on a new form of life. Thankfully, my wife was guiding us the whole way. I haven't heard any recent reports of gang violence directed at the Guatemala-(ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Tica Bus - This bus will take you directly to Tapachula from Guatemala City. I think she deserved a couple Quetzales ($$$). On this popular route, the van will probably stop at other hotels to pick up fellow travelers, making the trip in about three hours. Chicken buses (camionetas) from Guatemala City leave approximately every hour, from 6AM to 4PM, and cost 30Q. Safety tips: travel during daytime (lunch ideally), sit in front of the bus, take a less crowded bus to keep your backpack inside with you.September 2017Using Transmetro buses in Guatemala City:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bnq__eEHcgU\u0026t=6sUsing Uber Guatemala City from La Aurora Airport:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BurijMhMdAkChicken Bus Antigua Guatemala to Panajachel Lake Atitlan:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qY_gAgSYJ9c Best experiences in Guatemala? Cost is about Q90 ($11.25) each way. But once retired, those school buses did not go into the long goodnight to rust away in scrapyards. She sees a yoga mat attached to my backpack and asks if I can teach yoga as well. Yes! I get off the bus and walk over to one of the stands selling things. How to get to El Paredon, Guatemala - Guatemala Explorer The driver will often demand that your luggage be stored on the roof. Board the bus and somebody will come to collect the fare at some point. But I believe you can take a taxi to the bus stop across the street from Tikal Futura (large mall) and from this stop buses go to Antigua constantly. My mother was sliding all over the seat, unable to gain traction on the vinyl upholstery. Starting at 5:00 AM, departure times are every 30 minutes approximately. Uber has become a popular option, and there are flights within the country for example, from Guatemala City to theMayan ruins at Tikal that can be relatively affordable. This route is quiet and short, similar to the one to San Juan del Obispo. And if you haven't decided on where to stay in Lake Atitlan, we have got you covered . Iwas in a state of panicfor about 2 minutes,thencame to my senses. World's largest independently owned Ecotourism / Green Travel / Sustainable Travel / Animal & Wildlife Conservation site. One of them blocks Tweety (proclaiming that Jess Es Mi Co-Piloto). Bus from Guatemala City to Antigua: 2 hours: USD 18: Public bus from Guatemala City to Antigua: 2.5 to 3 hours: USD 1.25: Shuttle from Guatemala City to Antigua: 2 hours: USD 19: Private Transfer from Guatemala City to Antigua: 1 hour: USD 54: Taxi from Guatemala City to Antigua: 1 hour: USD 35: Uber from Guatemala City to Antigua: 1 . Blame it on the smart people who decided to turn four-lane, median-divided streets into one-way streets. What happens if my gear has been stolen, damaged or delayed. My Chicken Bus Adventure from Antigua to Mazatenango, Guatemala (+ Tips Many are driven south to Guatemala where theyre overhauled mechanically (smog reduction devices are typically removed, sometimes mufflers too, so theyre loud) and boldly decorated. How to: Chicken Bus Guatemala City To Antigua. There are rules, though. Its safer to travel by day for two reasons. In retrospect, it wasnt the brightest idea to take pictures of jumpy guys, one of whom is holding a shotgun. 176 Share 6.1K views 1 year ago GUATEMALA You shouldn't visit Guatemala City without at least one trip in a Chicken bus. He heads to a dirt lot behind the municipal market where dozens of chicken buses sit in a herringbone pattern. There are five main different options to get from Guatemala City to Antigua: rental car, taxi/Uber, bus, public bus (commonly referred to as Chicken bus), and shuttle. Whether you travel on chicken buses or shared van shuttles, dont bring valuables such as jewelry, which advertise you as a wealthy foreigner. It is tied with ropes along with the locals vegetable and fruit baskets. Because when Im in a car, I havethislittle knob right in front of me that will make weather irrelevant and temperature bend to my will. Hopefully the situation has improved since the 5 or 6 year old PBS article but that hasn't been my impression. Theres no way, though, to pursue the ayudante due to the boy and his turkey blocking access to the aisle. A post shared by NowonEarth (@nowonearth). The truth is, El Trebol is one of the most dangerous places in Guatemala City to be caught wandering in. Its the Spanish version. A guide to the bustling main airports in Central America that serve as vital connections, linking travelers from around the world to this vibrant region and beyond. They don't want it to take space that they can use for passengers (yeah sometimes those buses get that crowded). Try to book a flight that touches down in Guatemala between dawn and 4pm so you have time to get to Antigua in daylight. Theyre often family businesses and usuallystaffed by two people a grumpy driver on his cellphone and an ayudante,who shoutsout destinations from theopened doorway and collectsfares,delivering change from a huge wad of cash stashed in their front pockets. Book the CA Express. Green Global Travel is the worlds #1 independently owned ecotourism website encouraging others to embrace sustainable travel, wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and going green tips for more sustainable living. For those shiny,government-subsidized, modern green buses that crisscross Guatemala City, the fare is only 1Q ($0.12). Love a great pizza. We found the Chicken-Terminal (Google Maps: Estacion de Buses Occidente. More adventure, less money. With 150+ adventure activities covered and 24/7 emergency assistance. Not only are these buses cheap under Q15 (US $2) for a short trip, Q40 to Q60 (US $5-$8) for a three-hour ride from Antigua toLake Atitlan theyre a genuine window into Guatemalan life. ), is sleeping/unconscious and drooling on the floor. Antigua to Guatemala City - Guatemala City Forum - Tripadvisor A post shared by Philadelphia Beer Candles (@philadelphiabeercandles). The ayudantethrows my large backpack off the top of the bus and points to the bus behind us. It was something about her kids, the word of the lord, God, and the devil. Once youve made it past the lonely stretch of road, past San Lucas, at the start of the downhill slope, you can relax slightly. Use public transport (AKA the chicken bus) How much is an uber from Guatemala City to Antigua? Traveling from city to city has been simple thanks to the tourist shuttles. I'd arrange a shuttle in advance or see if you can find another person to share the taxi cost with. For long trips this means leaving at dawn or not long after; you want to plan to arrive by mid-afternoon. Theres more to Belize than the blue seas and white sands of its northern cays. Day 43: Antigua, Guatemala. Youve been warned. Right whenit starts to get cold in Chicago, I canbake in the heat. How to ride chicken buses in Guatemala. Prices, routes and tips You can also take a Litegua shuttle bus from Antigua straight to Guatemala City. These days, the bus TV has hit the scene: On arecent trip I got to watch a solid hour of Spanish-language hair band videos. HACE CALOR! (its hot!) Some owners have taken matters into their hands and hired armed security guards to ride behind the driver. Prices, routes and tips, on How to ride chicken buses in Guatemala. Despite the violence, many still consider the chicken buses and local city bus in Antigua safer than taking the taxis or Tuk-tuks . The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking in Guatemala - STINGY NOMADS And my small backpack rested on topof my lap. A Traveler's Guide to the Chicken Bus in Guatemala 0. And if you have a seat, consider yourself lucky. Cross the walkway to your right and walk a block towards El Trebol stop, always staying on your right. Generally speaking, well-traveled routes such as the highway leading from Guatemala City to Quetzaltenangotend to be safer than remote rural roads in areas with few tourists. We start in Antigua Guatemala and show you step by ste. Book a private chicken bus in Antigua to visit the villages nearby. Looney Tunes cartoon character Tweety Pie, From Aeronautical Backwaters to Key Hubs: A Quick Guide to International Airports in Central America, La Aurora Airport: A Symbol of Guatemalas Neglected Tourism Industry, Coatepeque and Ilopango: Memories From the Great Lakes of El Salvador. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you are traveling in the morning around rush hour, it's going to be an uncomfortable trip. Required fields are marked *. Occasionally, Police Officers will also ride along. One came by almost immediately. I have really slow internet right now but a quick google found this older link that describes the problem: http://www.pbs.org/newshour/updates/latin_america-jan-june11-buses_03-08/. Whatever. I wasnt sure until I arrived via chicken bus about 2 weeks ago. I felt an overwhelming feeling of victory as I waited on a curb drinking my Gatorade. Want to get to Guatemala City from Antigua. Any info about "chicken buses"? On this particular route you will not experience the traditional high speeds of the chicken buses. I was warned numerous times how hot it is and how there are no gringos (white Americans) in Mazatenango. Two minutes later I feel my neck to make sure its not bleeding. I detail the safest routes, prices and safety tips. I have not taken the bus from GC to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Well provide you with invaluable info, insights, tips, and resources for an unforgettable Central American experience. Well, not if you come from Florida, where the longest walk of the day stretches from front door to a curbside mailbox. You will see them all over the country pimped up with lights, colors and religious expressions. At all. My friend tells theayudante (conductor/bus worker)that I am headed to Mazate and to please take care of me. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Explore Antiguan history, culture, and cuisine on this half-day chicken bus tour, ideal for travelers tight on time. He divides his time between Santa Cruz, California and Antigua, Guatemala. A post shared by Fanni Fekete (@life.is.not.a.project). Most chicken bus rides are pleasant,forgettableaffairs, as was my first solo trip to pick up my passport at the Immigration office. The whole fight lasted less than 15 seconds. The term "Chicken Bus" originates in Guatemala and comes from the fact that passengers would often transport live animals on them. Where is Mazatenango? Theabysswont just stare back at you; it will at the same time taunt you and ask you to bring some tortillas with you. What to Do in Guatemala Have you ever been to Mazatenango? Yes, accidents happen all the time here, to the surprise of exactly no one. This doesnt happen often anymore. Aroving whale of a vehicle clanks by in a blur of color and a Doppler whir of Latin pop. Take this measure into account especially when arriving at bus terminals. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Overnight flights that arrive early morning can be a good option if you dont mind a red-eye. Do not show large bills while looking for the ticket fee. I recommend riding a chicken bus at least once!!! Some of the chicken bus lines in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Its gotten so bad that bus drivers have shut down certain routes until the government finds a way to make sure theyre safe, stranding thousands ofcommutersin the process. This morning a post about this cropped up on my Facebook feed - apparently the problems continue: http://hrbrief.org/2017/03/situation-extra-urban-transport-workers-guatemala/. The Chicken Bus is stunning and somewhat startling to behold, as well as a complicated statement about the current state of the worlds economic disparity. Mind you that these buses are the size of a smallmobilehome. She told me this was not a good place to be, so she advised we best get through it as soon as possible. It would be my second work exchange in Guatemala! Once aboard, we looked for an empty seat. If you have luggage, you may want to avoid the chicken buses. I really don't want that to be true for the Guate-Antigua route. It doesnt matter. While the nameremains nearly ubiquitous amongtourists and expats, most locals who use this form of transportation arent familiar with the term chicken bus (nor its translation). If you're looking for ways to get from Antigua to Lake Atitlan, read this post instead. It is preferable that you carry small bills and coins (1, 5, 10 and 20 GTQ) and have the exact change for the journey. A ride costs about 10 Quetzales (1.5 USD) but the least safe and definitely the least practical. Just as long as you keep your wits about you, and PLEASE refrain from doing something dumb, like taking pictures of jumpy bus drivers. In a way, not having a car has added another dimension to the overseas experience. Im not going to rehash what happened in Belize to my beloved Jeep and why Im now routinely hanging out the door of overcrowded chicken buses. Plus some great stories and strong opinions! To see the remarkable Mayan ruins at Tikal, the best option is the hourlong flight from Guatemala City (usually Q770/US $100 or more roundtrip) if you can afford that. When you think about it, our cars are just like space capsules, because thats how we move through the landscape detached from everything, insulated from the harsh realities outside our windows.