Quick answer: most travelers reach El Paredon on a shared tourist shuttle from Antigua. It takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours and usually costs US$20 to $29 a seat. A private driver is faster and costs more, and the chicken bus is cheapest but takes most of the day.
El Paredon is a small beach town on Guatemala’s Pacific coast in the Escuintla department, in the municipality of Sipacate, roughly 100 km from Antigua by road. There is no airport, no Uber and no taxi rank in town, so plan your ride in and out before you go. Prices and times below are typical figures published by shuttle sellers and travel guides in late 2026; always confirm with the operator when you book.
How to get to El Paredon from Antigua
| Option | Typical cost | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared tourist shuttle | US$20 to $29 per person | 2.5 to 3.5 hours | Most travelers |
| Private driver or taxi | About US$75 to $180 per vehicle | 2 to 2.5 hours | Groups, surfboards, flexible times |
| Chicken bus and tuk-tuk | About Q65 to Q100 in total | 4 to 6 hours | Tight budgets and experienced travelers |
Shared shuttle
Shuttles usually leave Antigua around 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Depending on the company, they pick you up at your hostel or hotel or at a set meeting point in town. Operators that run the route include Atitrans, Adrenalina Tours and Guatemala Transportation. Shuttles fill up in the dry season (November to April) and on weekends, so book a few days ahead, or a week ahead around holidays.
Private driver
A private transfer is the easiest choice if you are traveling as a group or carrying surfboards. Agree the full price before you get in, including any stops. Driving outside Guatemala City after dark is not recommended, so aim to arrive in daylight.
Chicken bus
The budget route takes three steps: a bus from the Antigua terminal behind the market to Escuintla, a second bus from Escuintla to Sipacate (sometimes with a change), then a tuk-tuk from Sipacate to El Paredon for about Q20. There is no fixed fare, buses get crowded and timetables aren’t published, so leave early and keep your bag on your lap. Many travelers and the US government advise against chicken buses, so this option suits experienced travelers only.
From Guatemala City and La Aurora airport
Some shuttle companies sell a through ticket from the airport to El Paredon via Antigua, typically US$38 to $45 with early-morning and midday departures. The other option is an airport shuttle to Antigua (about US$15 to $18, roughly 1.5 hours), a night in Antigua, then the morning shuttle to the beach. If you land late, staying in Antigua first is the safer and calmer plan.
From Lake Atitlan
Direct shuttles run from Panajachel and San Pedro La Laguna, usually leaving around 1:00 to 2:00 PM, for about US$30 to $35 and around 4 hours. A few also leave early in the morning via Antigua. Check the exact pickup point, as some boats and shuttles meet at the dock.
From Monterrico and other beaches
There is no direct shared shuttle between Monterrico and El Paredon. Most travelers go back through Antigua, which usually means a night there, or hire a private driver along the coast.
Leaving El Paredon
Return shuttles to Antigua usually leave around 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, and some continue to Guatemala City and the airport. Your hostel or hotel can book them, often the day before. There are no taxis waiting in town, so don’t leave your ride out until the last minute.
Tips before you go
- Bring cash. El Paredon has one ATM and it is often empty or out of order, and many places are cash only.
- The last stretch into town is narrow and sandy. Shuttles drop you on the main street, so pack light enough to walk a short way.
- Agree tuk-tuk prices before you ride.
- Check in with your accommodation if you’ll arrive after dark.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get from Antigua to El Paredon?
About 2.5 to 3.5 hours by shuttle or 2 to 2.5 hours with a private driver. The chicken bus takes 4 to 6 hours.
Is there Uber in El Paredon?
No. Book a shuttle or private driver for both directions.
How much is the shuttle from Antigua to El Paredon?
Usually US$20 to $29 per person in late 2026, depending on the company.
Now you know how to get here, see where to stay in El Paredon, the best things to do and our guide to surfing in El Paredon.