Peter Greenberg: Guatemalan Buses

By: Peter Greenberg | Source: AARP.org | 2008-09-19

I'll be going to Mexico and wanted to fly to Guatemala City, Guatemala, and then take a bus back up to Chiapas, Mexico. My questions are two: One, are there any special visas or other papers I have to get to go to and travel in Guatemala, or to cross the border into Mexico? And two, are bus rides through the frontier in Guatemala safe? Are there any other considerations for traveling or going to Guatemala?
–James, Amargosa Valley, Nev.

Fortunately, other than your passport, there are no special documents needed to travel to Guatemala or to cross the border into Mexico. Travelers entering Guatemala must have a passport that will be valid until at least six months after entering the country. Citizens of the United States do not need a visa to enter Guatemala or Mexico.
 
One of the most convenient means of travel in Guatemala and Mexico is by bus, so there is frequent bus service between Mexico and Guatemala. And you will not find a shortage of buses in Guatemala City. The border crossings are not difficult, as long as you have your passport. Once inside Mexico, you must switch to a Mexican bus in order to travel to Chiapas.
 
Most of the buses in Guatemala that transport people from city to city are called "chicken buses" because of the live cargo accompanying passengers. They are oftentimes crammed, uncomfortable, and extremely inexpensive, roughly $1 for an hour of travel. Some routes, especially between big cities, are served by more comfortable buses with the luxury of one seat per person. You will most likely be riding in one of these buses rather than in the chicken buses.

The best buses are labeled "Pullman", "Especial", or "Primera Clase". Occasionally, these may have bathrooms, televisions, and food service. More buses leave in the morning than in the afternoon, and night buses (not recommended) are rare. For a few of the better services, you can buy tickets in advance. This is worth doing, as it ensures that your place is secured.
 
To protect your safety, travel in the morning or in the afternoon. Avoid traveling at night at all costs. For added safety, avoid flashing any signs of wealth. Keep your money and important documents in a money belt underneath your clothes. Most of the danger of traveling by bus in Guatemala is found in smaller buses and at night. If you are concerned about safety, it is worth spending a little extra for a ride in one of the first-class buses mentioned above. They are roomier, more comfortable, and have fewer stops.