How to get from La Aurora Airport to Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beckons travellers with its captivating blend of colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and volcanic vistas. Located just 40 kilometres (24 miles) southwest of La Aurora International Airport (GUA), reaching this enchanting city is a breeze.

If you have landed at the La Aurora Airport and plan to make your way to Antigua, there are several means of transport, prices and schedules that you can choose for this journey.

This guide will delve into all the ways you can travel from La Aurora Airport to Antigua without any hassle.

Best ways to get from La Aurora Airport to Antigua

Several convenient options can take you from the La Aurora Airport to Antigua without any hassle. However, choosing the best option depends on your budget, convenience and the number and age of people you are travelling with.

The following are a few options to consider:

Shuttles from La Aurora Airport to Antigua

Indulge in a hassle-free arrival with a pre-booked private shuttle or taxi. These services offer door-to-door convenience, eliminating the need for navigation or haggling with local taxi drivers.

However, the biggest issue people face with private shuttles is the cost. They are comparably more expensive than the other mediums of transportation, so you will need to plan accordingly. Most shuttles have specific timing for their departure, which you need to follow through. Since the distance isn’t a lot, you can expect to reach your destination within one hour.

Fare: Depending on the shuttle service you are availing, the cost of the trip can range from $30-$50. Check out the schedule and book your Shuttle tickets from La Aurora Airport to Antigua here!

Shuttle from Sayulita to Puerto Vallarta

Chicken Buses from La Aurora Airport to Antigua

Embrace a slice of local life by experiencing the iconic “chicken buses” of Guatemala. These brightly coloured buses offer the cheapest way to reach Antigua, costing only around 15 Quetzales (roughly USD 2).

However, with the cheaper price point comes a few downsides too. They tend to be a lot more crowded and slower since they make numerous stops along the way. So, the standard one-hour trip usually ends up taking 1.5 to 2 hours. Finding a chicken bus requires a short walk from the airport to El Trebol, a busy intersection in Guatemala City.

Fare: The prices of these chicken buses usually range between $2 and $5 and sometimes cheaper than that.

Private transfers from La Aurora Airport to Antigua

For ultimate flexibility and the freedom to explore on your own time, consider private transfers. Several private transfers operate at La Aurora Airport. Driving to Antigua takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic conditions.

Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and international driving permit, and be prepared for potential tolls on the highway. Also, if you are travelling with your family, this is probably the best option for you to explore.

Fare: The prices can be a lot more, usually starting from $59 for 1-3 passengers. However, the higher end of the fare can cross $160 for 10 to 12 passengers, depending on the car you are availing for the ride. Check out the schedule and book your private transfers tickets from La Aurora Airport to Antigua here!

Private transfer

How far is La Aurora Airport from Antigua Guatemala?

The distance between La Aurora Airport and Antigua Guatemala is approximately 40 kilometres (24 miles). The chosen transportation method will determine your travel time, ranging from a swift 45 minutes by car to a more relaxed 2 hours by chicken bus.

Things to do in Antigua

The moment you step foot in Antigua, various experiences are awaiting your presence. From a casual stroll down the city centre or exploring the volcanic landscape, there’s a lot that you can do.

Following are some of the best options:

Immerse in the history of the place

Antigua boasts magnificent colonial architecture, a testament to its rich past. Explore landmarks like the Antigua Cathedral, the ruins of the Convento de Santa Clara, and the Palace of the Captains General. Most of these spots are free to explore, so you shouldn’t have to worry about spending extravagantly. Also, a few of these places are kid-friendly too, so if you are travelling with children, these make a great pit stop.

Check out the volcanic landscape

Antigua is surrounded by majestic volcanoes, including Volcan Agua, Volcan Fuego, and Volcan Acatenango. Hike these volcanic giants or admire their breathtaking views from a scenic lookout point. Depending on the hiking trail and the difficulty level, you might need permits from the local authorities and guides to help you along the journey.

Explore the local markets

Wander through Antigua’s vibrant markets, soak up the atmosphere at Central Park, and sample delicious Guatemalan cuisine. Explore the craftsmanship of local artisans at workshops and shops. Even the nightlife of Antigua is quite amazing, so if you like drinking and clubbing; don’t forget to explore the clubs and pubs around.

Unwind in nature’s paradise

Besides the volcanoes and the vibrant city life, Antigua also offers respite from these spots with its nature attractions. You can take a relaxing dip in thermal pools, explore nearby coffee plantations, or hike through lush green landscapes.

Getting to Antigua from La Aurora Airport

An easy and reliable way to buy tickets fast and at a good price from La Aurora Airport to Antigua is GuateGo, you can search all transportation options. Look for buses, shuttles, private transportation around Guatemala with a reliable and easy-to-use platform, you can compare prices and schedules as well as do your search online.

Conclusion

Planning your trip from the La Aurora Airport to Antigua Guatemala requires planning and successful execution. Embarking on this 40 km trip can be a challenging affair if you don’t find ideal transportation options. So, without wasting any options, buckle up and strap on your backpack as you prepare yourself to explore the magic of Antigua.

FAQs

What is the best way to get from La Aurora Airport to Antigua Guatemala?

The best option to travel from La Aurora Airport to Antigua depends on your comfort and budget. If you don’t want to splurge a lot, it’s ideal to opt for shuttles. Rental cars are usually the most expensive option. You can look for transport options from La Aurora Airport to Antigua here.

What is the best price to get from La Aurora Airport to Antigua Guatemala?

The best price is usually the chicken buses that cost under $5. However, they are overcrowded and not comfortable at all. Usually, the shuttles are your next best choice in terms of pricing. You can look for prices from La Aurora Airport to Antigua here.

What are some things to do in Antigua Guatemala?

Antigua Guatemala offers a wealth of attractions, including exploring colonial architecture, visiting historic churches, shopping at local markets, and hiking volcanoes for stunning panoramic views.