Frequently Asked Questions:
Traveling to Guatemala
Which airport is closest to Antigua Guatemala?
The closest airport is La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City (airport code GUA), which is about 45 km (30 miles) from Antigua. Do not book a flight to Antigua Bird International Airport (airport code ANU) — that one is located on the island of Antigua in the Caribbean.
How do I get from the airport in Guatemala City to Antigua?
The easiest way to get here is to give us your flight details on the registration form and we'll send our driver to pick you up at the airport. We can pick you up anytime, day or night, and take you directly to your accommodations in Antigua. Please see the price list for the current price of the airport pickup service.
Other options would be to take a taxi or minibus from the airport to Antigua. Finally, you could also take a public bus, but that's definitely not for the faint of heart, especially if you carry a lot of luggage or arrive after dark.
If I book your airport pickup service, how will I recognize the person who meets me at the airport?
Our driver will be waiting for you at the exit of the arrival area (there is only one), holding a sign with your name on it. In case your flight is delayed, he will wait for you.
Which airline do you recommend I use to fly to Guatemala?
Several U.S. and international airlines offer direct flights from cities in the U.S., Europe and Latin America to Guatemala. Which one will be most convenient for you will depend on where you live. We have listed all airlines with direct flights to Guatemala on one of our resources pages so you can check them out yourself. Your travel agent will also be able to recommend the most convenient connections.
Do I need a visa to enter Guatemala?
Probably not. North Americans and citizens of most European countries just get their passports stamped at the airport or border crossing, which allows them to stay in Guatemala for up to 90 days. If you are in doubt, you can visit the website of the Guatemalan Immigration Office and check the entry requirements for citizens of your home country.
Do I have to take malaria pills while in Guatemala?
If you stay only in Antigua, malaria prophylactics are not necessary since there is no malaria here. Even in the lowlands — the coastal plains on the Pacific and Caribbean costs, and the Peten department, where Tikal is located — malaria is very rare and few travelers take malaria pills before they travel there. However, you might want to discuss this subject with your physician or healthcare provider to get more definitive advice.
Which other places in Guatemala do you recommend I visit?
That really depends on your interests. If you're interested in Mayan history, you should definitely visit Tikal and maybe also Copan in Honduras. Lake Atitlan is also a favorite with many visitors since it's considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. There are many other interesting places in Guatemala and we'll be happy to discuss them with you; just send us an email or ask us when you are in Antigua.
Do you have a question that's not answered here? Contact us and we'll assist you any way we can!