How to get from Panajachel to Xela

Panajachel pulsates with a vibrant charm, but the allure of Guatemala extends far beyond its picturesque lakes. Craving a taste of highland culture? Xela, a captivating city shrouded in colonial mystique, waits.

There are several ways to get from Panajachel to Xela, such as shuttles, private transfers, etc., each adapted to different budgets and preferences. Planning is crucial to ensure that you can navigate your journey to Xela in no time at all.

To simplify your travel experience, we will explore everything there’s to know about making your way from Panajachel to Xela.

Best ways to get from Panajachel to Xela

Given how popular both Panajachel and Xela are in their ways, it isn’t surprising that there are several ways to make the trip around. It’s convenient and quite seamless, provided that you are planning things well. Also, keep in mind that each transportation mode comes with varying price points, so you have to plan your itinerary accordingly.

Shuttles from Panajachel to Xela

Seeking a more relaxed travel experience? Shared shuttles offer a comfortable and convenient alternative. These door-to-door services typically depart in the morning and afternoon, whisking you away from Panajachel and delivering you directly to your Xela accommodation. Travel time is considerably faster, clocking in at around 1 hour. However, this also happens to be one of the most popular transportation mediums, which explains why you need to secure the bookings ahead of time.

Fare: The fare is usually variable and depends on the operator you are travelling with. For example, Atitrans charges $35 while other operators can charge slightly cheaper. Either way, the experience justifies the price you pay. Check out the schedule and book your Shuttle tickets from Panajachel to Xela here!

Private transfers from Panajachel to Xela

Not a fan of travelling with strangers? If that’s the case, you can always choose to opt for private transfers. They are quite a lot expensive though, so that’s something that you will have to keep in consideration. Ideal for families or groups, they cater to your specific schedule and can accommodate luggage with ease. 

The journey is tailored to your needs, offering potential stops for sightseeing or refreshment breaks. However, you do have to pay for the kind of convenience and flexibility that you avail.

Fare: Due to the distance, comfort and convenience, you can expect to pay around $100 or more for the whole journey.

Chicken bus from Panajachel to Xela

If there’s one transportation mode that’s native to Guatemala, it is the chicken bus. They are conveniently available around Panajachel and they transfer you to Xela as well. Catching a chicken bus from Panajachel to Xela isn’t a direct affair. Look for buses displaying “Los Encuentros” on their destination signs. The journey involves a transfer to Los Encuentros, a bustling transportation hub. 

The entire trip, including the transfer, takes approximately 2 hours 25 minutes. We’d recommend you keep this as the last resort instead of opting for it as the first choice because you’d have to change transportation for a more convenient travel experience.

Fare: The prices are usually a lot less than what you’d pay for shuttles or rental cars. Expect to pay under $10 per person, sometimes even less.

Car rentals from Panajachel to Xela

Last but not the least is rental cars. These are for the free-spirited tourists who want to explore Xela at their own pace. You have the convenience of a rental car, meaning that you get to go around without any hassle. The drive offers breathtaking vistas of the Guatemalan highlands, allowing you to stop at charming villages and soak in the natural beauty. Factor in approximately 1 hour 58 minutes for the journey, but remember that road conditions can vary.

Fare: Since the distance from Panajachel to Xela isn’t a lot, you can expect to pay around $60-$80 per day for the rentals, which is quite cheap.

How far is Panajachel from Xela?

The distance from Panajachel to Xela is around 85 km by road. However, keep in consideration that the distance can vary depending on the kind of transportation that you are availing. Overall, we’d recommend you keep a check on the option that works the best for you.

Best things to do in Xela

Having traversed the scenic town of Panajachel, you’ll arrive in Xela, a city brimming with cultural treasures. There are a lot of things to do and places to explore, including:

• Embrace the artistic spirit

Xela is a haven for artists and artisans. Immerse yourself in vibrant street art scenes, browse local galleries showcasing indigenous handicrafts, or witness the traditional backstrap weaving techniques.

• Explore the history

Xela boasts a captivating colonial past evident in its architectural gems. Explore the majestic Catedral Metropolitana and marvel at the intricate artistry of Casa de la Cultura.

• Check out the local cuisine

Xela tantalizes taste buds with traditional Guatemalan cuisine. Sample hearty stews like pepian or savour a steaming bowl of flavorful caldo de res (beef soup). Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in freshly roasted coffee, a Guatemalan staple.

Irrespective of what you do, ensure that you have a proper itinerary in place. This enables you to make the most out of your trip, despite how short or long it is.

If you want to make your way from Panajachel to Xela, there are a lot of exciting things to explore along the way. The short distance makes for a quick yet scenic trip, one that’s surrounded by beautiful landscapes, local stalls and a plethora of experiences.

Getting to Xela from Panajachel

An easy and reliable way to buy tickets fast and at a good price from Panajachel to Xela 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.

FAQs

What is the best way to travel from Panajachel to Xela?

Making your way from Panajachel to Xela combines a lot of transportation options but shuttle services are usually one of the best options. It’s convenient and comfortable too.  You can look for transport options from Panajachel to Xela here.

What is the best price to travel from Panajachel to Xela?

When you combine budget-friendly travel experiences with comfort, prepare to pay around $40-$50 for the ride on average. You can look for prices from Panajachel to Xela here.

What to do in Xela?

Xela offers a range of activities, from cultural exploration and volcanic adventures to coffee indulgence, the list is quite long.