Traveling in Guatemala?

Question

I've been to Guatemala many times before but have always depended on local friends and family to drive me around the country. I will be taking my girlfriend for the first time and want us to travel on our own keeping the friends and family at bay. I want her to feel as safe and comfortable as possible as this will be her first trip outside of the states.

I've considered renting a car but I really think I'd prefer not to waste time getting lost and also think it might be safer if I don't drive (if you've been there you know driving is crazy). Does anyone have advice on traveling from the city to Antigua to Panajachel, to the Puerto San Jose, etc? I'm open to shuttles, prefer to stay away from the local bus system but would be open to better known bus lines. Also, does anyone know any good places to buy airline tickets from Guatemala city to Tikal?

Thanks!

Answer 1

I agree take the bus. Im from guatemala and driving is not safe. i was in a car accident not too long ago over there

Answer 2

I would recommend that you get the rental car.  It will give you more flexibility to do other things.  I understand your reservations about driving, but the public transportation is the worst and dangerous.  Driving yourself will give you the chance to drive defensively and you can avoid the dumptruck that's passing 10 cars on the corner of a mountain road.  I'm a gringo and had no problem driving throughout guatemala city or the rural parts of the country.  

As for buying tickets from Guatemala City to Tikal, try  http://www.taca.com/

http://www.casaxelaju.com/tours/tikal/

http://www.enjoyguatemala.com/transfers/...

As a side note, Spirit Airlines now flies from the US to Guatemala and they have some cheap rates.  If you are flying from Fort Lauderdale, I found tickets for $50 roundtrip and From LA I found one that was 100.00 Round Trip.