How to get from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela, Guatemala
You can travel from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela by boat + shared shuttle, boat + bus, boat + private transfer, or boat + taxi.
Xela, or Quetzaltenango as it’s officially known, is like the cherry atop Guatemala’s cultural sundae!
It’s where the air is crisp, the streets echo with the clatter of cobblestones, and the traditional K’iche’ Maya culture intermingles with Spanish colonial heritage in vibrant harmony.
The journey from the serene Lake Atitlán’s San Pedro La Laguna to this highland treasure is a passage through time and a kaleidoscope of natural beauty.
So, before you even scroll further, let’s put it out there – if you haven’t penned down Xela in your travel itinerary, this article might just make you book that tour with a fervor!
Distance from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela
The distance from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela is about 81.4 kilometers or 50.6 miles.
It takes about 2 hours to travel from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela by car.
Transportation Options from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela
The following table outlines all transportation options from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Boat + Public Bus from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela | ~4 hours | ~USD 11 |
| Boat + Shared Shuttle from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela | 4 hours | USD 54-USD 59 |
| Boat + Private Transfer from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela | ~3 hours | – |
| Boat + Taxi from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela | ~3 hours | USD 68-USD 83 |
Getting to Xela from San Pedro La Laguna
1. Boat + Public Bus from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela
Travel time: ~4 hours
Kicking off your adventure from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela on a budget? Embarking on this journey doesn’t have to break the bank.
Hop on a boat to Panajachel; they’re zipping back and forth all day and will get you there in about an hour. This leg of the trip will set you back a few dollars, as the whole ride costs about USD 24!
These boats run hourly, on the hour, so you can catch one at any time of the day! You can also book your boat tickets online in advance here!
Upon reaching Panajachel, head to the intersection of Santander and the main road, which is conveniently located opposite the Inguat office – this is your gateway to catching a public bus to Xela.
These buses are quite the steal at just USD 3 and run frequently, and you’ll find yourself soaking in the Xela vibes in about 4 hours from when you set off, with the whole journey costing around USD 11.
This transportation option is a no-brainer for the budget-savvy traveler who’s up for a mini-adventure before even reaching Xela!
2. Boat + Shared Shuttle from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela
Travel time: 4 hours
For those seeking a more streamlined and comfortable journey from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela, combining a boat ride to Panajachel with a shared shuttle is an excellent choice!
Start by taking a boat from San Pedro’s public dock to Panajachel, a scenic hour-long journey with regular departures throughout the day.
Once you dock in Panajachel, you have two options for catching a shared shuttle to Xela: either head to the Atitrans Shuttles office or opt for a service that picks you up right from the dock.
The shuttle journey lasts approximately 3 hours, and prices range from USD 30 to USD 35. Given the popularity of these shuttles, especially during the tourist season, it’s wise to book your seat in advance!
And there you have it: in just a few hours and with the added comfort of a shuttle, you’ll be exploring the cultural wonders of Xela.
Panajachel to Xela Shared Van Shuttle Schedule
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03:00 PM | 06:00 PM | 3 hours | USD 35 |  |
| 03:00 PM | 06:00 PM | 2 hours | USD 30 | |
3. Boat + Private Transfer from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela
Travel time: ~3 hour
If convenience and customization top your list, consider the boat to Panajachel, followed by a private transfer to Xela!
Start with an hour’s boat ride from San Pedro La Laguna to Panajachel. Once in Panajachel, a plethora of tour operators and transport companies are at your service to arrange a private transfer to Xela.
Opting for a private transfer is synonymous with freedom; you call the shots on the departure time, and you’re ensconced in the comfort of a private vehicle with a seasoned driver at the helm.
This is particularly handy if you’re lugging around a hefty amount of baggage or have particular travel preferences. Clocking in at roughly 3 hours, the drive from Panajachel to Xela is as breathtaking as it is comfy.
However, it’s a good call to lock in your transfer ahead of time to avoid any availability hiccups.
4. Boat + Taxi from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela
Travel time: ~3 hours
For those who prioritize speed and flexibility, coupling a boat ride to Panajachel with a taxi to Xela is a fantastic option, particularly for spontaneous travelers.
Your journey commences with an hour-long boat ride from San Pedro La Laguna to Panajachel, which will cost you about USD 8; boats are frequent, so you can pick a time that suits you.
Once in Panajachel, taxis are aplenty at the dock or along the streets. Taxis are reliable and super convenient for traversing Guatemala. The ride from Panajachel to Xela takes around 2 hours.
Be mindful that taxis are pricier, hovering around USD 60 to USD 75, but the silver lining is the liberty to travel at your leisure and make pit stops if needed.
A word to the wise – haggle and settle on the fare with the driver beforehand, as prices can fluctuate. And pack some cash, as cards aren’t a popular payment mode among taxi drivers in Guatemala.
Best day tours in Xela, Guatemala
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any direct transport options from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela?
There are no direct transport options; all routes require a change in Panajachel.
Is it safe to travel from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela?
Generally, it is safe to travel between these two destinations. However, as with any travel, it’s wise to be cautious, avoid traveling at night, and keep your belongings secure.
Is the route from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela scenic?
Absolutely, the route is incredibly scenic, especially the boat ride across Lake Atitlán, which offers stunning views of volcanoes and picturesque villages.
Can I hire a taxi from Panajachel to Xela? How much does it cost?
Yes, taxis are available and can be hailed at the dock or on the streets in Panajachel. The cost is usually between USD 60 to USD 75.
How long does it take to travel from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela by public bus?
The boat ride to Panajachel takes about an hour, and the public bus to Xela takes around 3 hours. So, the entire journey is roughly 4 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela?
The cheapest way to get from San Pedro La Laguna to Xela is by using public transportation, The bus ticket priced only USD 3, together with the boat ride, shouldn’t cost you more than USD 11!
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AnaMaria is a dedicated SEO specialist and content strategist with profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
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Jean Nájera is the CEO of GuateGo, an online marketplace to buy transportation tickets in more than 200 cities. He has profound expertise in Transport in Costa Rica, Transportation in Mexico, Transport in Guatemala, Transport in Peru, and Transport in Thailand.
