Uber vs. Shuttles in Guatemala: The best way to move

If you’re planning your trip to Guatemala, surely you’ve seen photos of the Arch of Santa Catalina in Antigua or sunrise on Lake Atitlan. But there is something that the photos do not show you: traffic and transportation logistics.

As someone who lives here and who has traveled these roads hundreds of times (and that has investigated the current rates for this 2025), to tell you the truth: move around Guatemala can be a wonderful adventure or a headache if you do not choose well.

Here I’ll tell you, from you to you, when to use Uber and when it is better for you to get on a Shuttle.

Uber in Guatemala: Your best friend in the city

The Uber here works pretty well, but have their ‘tricks’ local that you must know. It is available mainly in Guatemala City, Antigua, Quetzaltenango (Xela) , and, with luck, in Panajachel.

What I like about Uber:

• Security traceable: For those who are on EE. UU. or Europe, the app gives you the peace of mind of knowing who brings and share your location.
• A fair price in short distances, Move within Guatemala City or Antigua’t cost you between $3 and $8 USD.
• Comfort: you Have the air conditioning on to yourself (vital in the heat of the capital).

The ‘reality Chapina’ (What no one tells you):

• Cancellations: Many drivers cancel if they see that you pay with a credit card. Why? Prefer the cash to pay for your gasoline per day. Pro tip: If you see that you canceled a lot, change the method to ‘Cash’ and you’ll see how to accept fast.
• The traffic is real: A journey of 10 km in Guatemala City, Guatemala, you can take 1.5 hours. Uber cobra by time and distance, so that the price can go up at peak hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM).

Shuttles: The standard for long distances

If you go to Antigua to Lake Atitlan, The firing squad (the beach) or to Semuc Champey, forget the Uber. No driver of Uber will want to take you 4 hours of mountain roads, then return empty. There is where the Shuttles (vans shared).

Why choose a Shuttle?

• Fixed price and predictable: A journey from Antigua to Panajachel costs about $25 USD per person. If you’re going alone or with a partner, it is much cheaper than a private transfer.
• Point-to-point: they pick You up at the door of your hotel and drop you off at the door of the next. In a country with cobbled streets and a lot of climbing, this is worth gold.
• Community: it Is the ideal place to meet other travelers from all over the world.

Side ‘B’:

• Rigid schedules: Usually go out early (6:00 AM or 8:00 AM). If you miss the Shuttle, you lost the day.
• Roads moved: The roads in Guatemala have many curves. If you suffer from dizziness, get ready with medicine before uploading.

Uber vs. Shuttles: Comparison Table

My ‘Tips of Gold’ for your trip

1. From the Airport to Antigua: If you arrive by day and traveling alone, as a Shuttle is economic. If you arrive at night or are a group of 3, calls for an Uber. Is faster and will cost almost the same as paying three seats of the Shuttle.
2. Do not use Uber to go to the Lake: I’ve seen tourists become stranded half way, because the signal is lost or the driver repents of the distance. For the Lake of Atitlan, booking a Shuttle or a private transfer with a local agency.
3. And what about the ‘Chicken Buses’? They are colorful and legendary, but as a local, I say to you: use them only for segments that are very short and for the cultural experience. I don’t recommend to move around with heavy bags or if you’re in a hurry, for safety and comfort.

Safety note: Guatemala is a beautiful country but you have to be cautious. Always check that the plate of the Uber match with the app and, if you’re in a Shuttle, make sure it’s a registered company (as Atitrans or similar).