Antigua Guatemala Guatemala Travel Guide
Antigua lacks its own international airport. La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City is the main international airport serving the region, about 25 miles (40 km) east of Antigua.
GUA Airport includes various facilities: ATMs, currency exchange, food/beverage, duty-free shops, SIM card kiosks, and car rental desks. Transfer from GUA to Antigua: 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Located in arrivals and departures for local currency. Airport exchange rates are typically less favorable than in Antigua.
Kiosks for Tigo and Claro near arrivals allow local SIM card purchase upon arrival.
Desks for major international car rental companies are available in the arrivals hall.
For international flights, arrive at GUA at least 2-3 hours before departure. This accounts for check-in, security, and immigration.
For transfers from Antigua, allow 1.5-2 hours, factoring in potential traffic.
If you have an early morning flight, consider leaving Antigua even earlier.
Public train services are not available for tourist travel. Long-distance buses are common for inter-city travel.
Guatemala shares land borders with Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras. CA-4 agreement applies to El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua for a 90-day period across the region.
Brightly refurbished American school buses. Very inexpensive and regular, connecting Antigua to nearby towns and Guatemala City.
Guatemalan drivers can be aggressive; road laws are often loosely followed. Defensive driving is a must. Carjackings and roadside robberies, while not common on major tourist routes, can occur, especially in remote areas or at night. Avoid driving at night, especially outside populated areas.
Antigua is landlocked. No direct sea or river ferry services or cruise ports. The nearest significant port is Puerto Quetzal on the Pacific coast, mainly a cargo port, although some cruise ships dock there.
River transportation is not relevant for reaching Antigua.
Nearest significant port, mainly cargo, some cruise ships dock. Requires land transport to Antigua.
Limited to specific regions like Rio Dulce; not for reaching Antigua.
From seaports, private transfers or organized tours are the main options to reach Antigua.
Typically no separate exit tax for departing Guatemala via air; it usually figures into your airfare.
For international flights from GUA, arrive at La Aurora International Airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time.
Available for relaxing before your flight.
For last-minute souvenir or gift purchases.
For meals and snacks.
Confirm your flight status and gate information. Have your passport and boarding pass readily available.
