Navigating Antigua, Guatemala: Transportation Tips for Families Exploring the City
When arriving in a new city or town, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to get around. If you don’t have a car, transportation can sometimes feel overwhelming. Luckily, navigating Antigua, Guatemala is simple and straightforward. Here’s a guide to help you explore the city and its vibrant streets like a pro.
Walking
Antigua, Guatemala is walkable town. It’s compact, and the cobblestone streets naturally slow down traffic, making it safer and more pleasant to explore on foot. You can get to almost any point in the city within a 20-minute walk. Walking is also a great way to soak in the charm of Antigua while enjoying its vibrant culture. For families, it’s a safe and engaging way to travel with kids.
Tips for Walking with Kids:
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Bring snacks to keep them energized.
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Play games, tell stories, or sing songs to make the walk fun.
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Take frequent breaks and let them rest or explore along the way.
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Discuss sights, smells, and sounds during the walk to keep them engaged.
Tuk-Tuks
Tuk-tuks are Antigua’s version of taxis. These three-wheeled vehicles are plentiful and easy to find near tourist areas, markets, or simply by flagging one down on the street. Tuk-tuks are cash-only, and you’ll need to negotiate the fare before the ride begins. Unlike some places where fares are charged per person, fares in Antigua are based on distance.
Tips for Tuk-Tuks with Kids:
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Cobblestone streets can make the ride bumpy, so have kids sit toward the middle for more stability.
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Make sure to agree on the price before hopping in.
Chicken Buses
For a truly local experience, hop on a “chicken bus.” These converted school buses are painted in vibrant colors and provide an efficient and budget-friendly way to get around. For only Q.3 per adult, you can enjoy a local Guatemalan travel experience. All routes end at the Antigua central bus terminal behind Mercado Central, so make sure to plan accordingly.
Tips for Chicken Buses with Kids:
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Kids can ride free if they sit on your lap, though some buses are more strict about this policy.
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Bring exact change or small bills.
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Be prepared to wait at the terminal while the bus fills up before departure.
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Kids usually enjoy the colorful buses and lively atmosphere.
Uber
Navigating Antigua, Guatemala can also be done using Uber as it is as convenient as in other cities. It’s perfect when you don’t have cash or need a quick and easy way to get around. The app is reliable, and payment is handled through your credit card, making it hassle-free.
Tips for Uber with Kids:
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Seatbelts are often hidden or difficult to access, so plan to have small children sit on your lap.
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Traffic and cobblestone streets naturally slow cars down.
InDrive
InDrive is a ride-share app similar to Uber but with a unique twist: you set the price. Enter your starting point, destination, and the price you’re willing to pay. The app will recommend a rate, or you can choose your own, and local drivers will “bid” on your ride. It’s often more affordable than Uber, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
Tips for InDrive with Kids:
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Like Uber, seatbelts are not always easily accessible.
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Have exact cash ready, as drivers often don’t carry change.
Our Favorite Way to Explore
Walking was our favorite mode of navigating Antigua, Guatemala. It allowed us to connect with the city—browsing shops, viewing the architecture, and enjoying the smells of local foods. However, with small children, we sometimes needed a break from walking. On those occasions, we opted for the chicken bus for its affordability and local experience, especially on market days. When traveling beyond the bus routes, InDrive was our go-to for convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Antigua offers a variety of transportation options to suit every need. Whether you’re walking its cobblestone streets, hopping on a vibrant chicken bus, or using a ride-share app, getting around the city is both accessible and memorable. With a little preparation and flexibility, your family can explore Antigua with ease and create unforgettable memories along the way.
More on the Blog:
Hike and camp on a volcano with your kids while in Antigua.
