Guatemala airports guide for visitors, backpackers and business travelers to the country. All you need to know about Guatemalan airport. Plan your next trip with us. Guatemala is a beautiful and fascinating country that is well worth a visit any time of the year. By following simple tips and taking appropriate safety measures, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this amazing country in Central America. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient Mayan ruins, relaxing on a beach, or immersing yourself in local culture, Guatemala has something to offer every traveler.
Landing in Guatemala
Guatemala has several international airports, including La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, which is the largest and busiest airport in the country. Other major airports include Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores and Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose.
Welcome to Guatemala! Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, there are a few things you should know before you arrive. When you arrive in Guatemala, you will need to go through immigration and customs. If you are a foreign national, you will need a valid passport to enter the country. Depending on your country of origin, you may also need a visa. You can check with your embassy or consulate in Guatemala to find out what documents you will need.



Staying Safe in Guatemala
While Guatemala is generally a safe country for tourists, there are certain areas that are known to be more dangerous than others. It’s important to research your destination and take appropriate safety measures. Here are some tips for staying safe in Guatemala:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
- Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash: This can make you a target for thieves.
- Use only licensed taxis: Be sure to use only licensed taxis, and agree on a price before getting into the taxi.
- Don’t walk alone at night: If you need to go out at night, it’s a good idea to go with a group.
- Be cautious with your belongings: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Things to See and Do in Guatemala
Guatemala has a rich history and culture, and there are many things to see and do in the country. Here are some of the top attractions:
- Antigua Guatemala: This historic city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and beautiful churches.
- Semuc Champey: This natural wonder consists of a series of turquoise pools and waterfalls.
- Chichicastenango Market: This colorful market is one of the largest in Central America and is a great place to buy local crafts and souvenirs.
- Tikal National Park: Located in the heart of the Mayan jungle, Tikal is one of the largest and most important Mayan sites in the world. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient temples, pyramids, and other structures.
- Lake Atitlan: This stunning lake is surrounded by three volcanoes and is known for its clear blue waters and picturesque villages.
- Antigua Guatemala: This charming colonial city is home to beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, and a lively arts scene.
- Pacaya Volcano: Visitors can hike to the top of this active volcano and see the lava flows up close.
Guatemala Airports Guide
Travel Attractions, Hotels, Transportation, and Car Rentals. All you need to know. Guatemala is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From ancient Mayan ruins to lush rainforests and stunning beaches, Guatemala has something to offer every traveler. If you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, you’ll likely arrive at one of the country’s international airports. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about Guatemala’s airports, including travel attractions in the country, hotels near airports, transportation in airports, transport from airports to hotels and the center of the cities, foreign travelers in Guatemala, car rentals issues from airports, and traveling alone to Guatemala.
GUATEMALA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS
There are four international airports in Guatemala: La Aurora International Airport (GUA), Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS), Quetzaltenango Airport (AAZ), and Puerto Barrios Airport (PBR). Of these airports, La Aurora International Airport is the largest and busiest, serving as the main entry point for travelers to Guatemala.



La Aurora International Airport (GUA)
La Aurora International Airport is located in Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala. It is the largest airport in the country and serves as a hub for several airlines, including Avianca, Copa Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. The airport has a modern terminal building with a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities.
La Aurora International Airport (GUA) is the main international airport in Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala. It is the largest airport in the country and serves as the primary gateway for travelers arriving by air.
The airport has a modern terminal building with a wide range of facilities for passengers. These include duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and ATMs. There are also several lounges available for passengers who require a quieter and more comfortable space to relax in.
Once you’ve arrived at La Aurora International Airport, there are several options for transportation to your destination. Taxis are readily available outside the airport and are a convenient way to get to your destination. It’s important to agree on a price before getting into the taxi and only use licensed taxis. As with all taxi rides in Guatemala, it’s recommended to have small bills on hand to avoid any issues with change.
Another option for transportation is to use one of the shuttle services available at the airport. These services can take you directly to your hotel or other destination within the city. Many hotels in the area also offer shuttle services to and from the airport, so be sure to check with your hotel if this is an option.
For those looking to explore the city on their own, there are several car rental companies located at the airport. Be sure to check with your rental car company about any required documents and driving laws in Guatemala. It’s important to note that traffic in Guatemala City can be congested and challenging, so it’s recommended to have experience driving in similar conditions.
Overall, La Aurora International Airport provides a modern and convenient gateway to Guatemala City and the rest of the country. With a wide range of facilities and transportation options available, travelers are sure to have a smooth and enjoyable experience passing through this airport.
Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS)
Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS) is a small international airport located in the town of Santa Elena, near the city of Flores in the Petén region of Guatemala. It serves as the main gateway to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal and other archaeological sites in the region.
The airport has one terminal building with a few basic facilities for passengers. These include a restaurant, a duty-free shop, and a small convenience store selling snacks and drinks. While it may not be as modern or extensive as some larger international airports, Mundo Maya International Airport provides all the necessary amenities for travelers passing through.
Once you’ve arrived at Mundo Maya International Airport, there are several options for transportation to your destination. Taxis are available outside the airport, and are a convenient way to get to your destination. However, it’s important to agree on a price before getting into the taxi and only use licensed taxis. This is a good practice to follow throughout Guatemala, as unlicensed taxis can be unsafe and unreliable.
Another option for transportation is to rent a car from one of the rental car companies located at the airport. Be sure to check with your rental car company about any required documents and driving laws in Guatemala. It’s also important to note that road conditions in the Petén region can be challenging, with some roads being unpaved and poorly maintained.
If you prefer to have your transportation arranged in advance, many hotels in the area offer shuttle services to and from the airport. You can check with your hotel to see if they offer this service and make arrangements in advance.



Overall, Mundo Maya International Airport provides a convenient gateway to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal and other archaeological sites in the Petén region of Guatemala. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of larger international airports, it’s still a reliable and efficient way to reach your destination in this beautiful part of the country.
Quetzaltenango Airport (AAZ)
Quetzaltenango Airport (AAZ), also known as La Aurora de Quetzaltenango, is a small regional airport located in the city of Quetzaltenango in western Guatemala. The airport primarily serves domestic flights to and from Guatemala City, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to visit the western highlands of Guatemala.
The airport has a small terminal building with basic facilities for passengers. These include a waiting area, a few shops selling snacks and drinks, and a restroom. While the facilities may not be extensive, they provide all the necessary amenities for travelers passing through.
Once you’ve arrived at Quetzaltenango Airport, there are several options for transportation to your destination. Taxis are available outside the airport and are a convenient way to get to your destination. It’s important to agree on a price before getting into the taxi and only use licensed taxis. As with all taxi rides in Guatemala, it’s recommended to have small bills on hand to avoid any issues with change.
Another option for transportation is to rent a car from one of the rental car companies located at the airport. Be sure to check with your rental car company about any required documents and driving laws in Guatemala. While the roads in the western highlands may be better maintained than other regions of the country, they can still be challenging for inexperienced drivers.
If you prefer to have your transportation arranged in advance, many hotels in the area offer shuttle services to and from the airport. You can check with your hotel to see if they offer this service and make arrangements in advance.
Overall, Quetzaltenango Airport is a convenient option for travelers looking to visit the western highlands of Guatemala. While it may not have all the amenities of larger airports, it still provides reliable and efficient transportation for those passing through.
Puerto Barrios Airport (PBR)
Puerto Barrios Airport (PBR) is a small domestic airport located in the city of Puerto Barrios on the Caribbean coast of Guatemala. The airport serves as a gateway to the nearby town of Livingston, a popular tourist destination known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and beautiful beaches.
The airport has a small terminal building with basic facilities for passengers. These include a waiting area, a few shops selling snacks and drinks, and a restroom. While the facilities may not be extensive, they provide all the necessary amenities for travelers passing through.



Once you’ve arrived at Puerto Barrios Airport, there are several options for transportation to your destination. Taxis are available outside the airport and are a convenient way to get to your destination. It’s important to agree on a price before getting into the taxi and only use licensed taxis. As with all taxi rides in Guatemala, it’s recommended to have small bills on hand to avoid any issues with change.
Another option for transportation is to rent a car from one of the rental car companies located at the airport. Be sure to check with your rental car company about any required documents and driving laws in Guatemala. While the roads in the area may be better maintained than other regions of the country, they can still be challenging for inexperienced drivers.
If you prefer to have your transportation arranged in advance, many hotels in the area offer shuttle services to and from the airport. You can check with your hotel to see if they offer this service and make arrangements in advance.
Overall, Puerto Barrios Airport provides a convenient gateway to the beautiful beaches and vibrant culture of the nearby town of Livingston. While it may not have all the amenities of larger airports, it still provides reliable and efficient transportation for those passing through.
Hotels Near Airports
If you’re arriving in Guatemala late at night or have an early morning flight, you may want to stay at a hotel near the airport. There are several hotels located near La Aurora International Airport, including:
- Courtyard by Marriott Guatemala City: This modern hotel is located just five minutes from the airport and offers comfortable rooms and a variety of amenities.
- Barceló Guatemala City: This luxury hotel is located just ten minutes from the airport and features an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center.
- Radisson Hotel and Suites Guatemala City: This hotel is located just five minutes from the airport and offers comfortable rooms and a variety of amenities.
Transportation in Airports
Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll need to find transportation to your hotel or other destination. La Aurora International Airport offers several transportation options, including taxis, shuttle buses, and rental cars. There are also several ride-sharing services available, including Uber and Cabify.
Transport from Airports to Hotels and the Center of Cities
If you’re traveling to Guatemala for the first time, you may be wondering how to get from the airport to your hotel or other destination. Here are some of the most popular transportation options:
- Taxi: Taxis are available at all of Guatemala’s international airports. You can find a taxi stand outside the terminal building, and fares are generally fixed.
- Shuttle bus: Many hotels offer shuttle bus service to and from the airport. You can check with your hotel to see if they offer this service and make arrangements in advance.
- Rental car: If you prefer to have your own transportation, you can rent a car from one of the rental car companies located at the airport. Be sure to check with your rental car company about any required documents and driving laws in Guatemala.
- Ride-sharing services: Services like Uber and Cabify are also available in Guatemala. You can use their mobile apps to request a ride from the airport to your destination.
Foreign Travelers in Guatemala
If you are a foreign traveler planning to visit Guatemala, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you will need a valid passport to enter the country. Depending on your country of origin, you may also need a visa. You can check with your embassy or consulate in Guatemala to find out what documents you will need.
It’s also a good idea to take precautions to ensure your safety while traveling in Guatemala. While the country is generally safe for tourists, there are certain areas that are known to be more dangerous than others. It’s important to research your destination and take appropriate safety measures.
Car Rentals Issues from Airports
If you plan to rent a car from one of Guatemala’s international airports, there are a few things you should be aware of. First, you will need to have a valid driver’s license from your home country. You may also need an international driving permit, depending on the requirements of your rental car company.



In addition, driving in Guatemala can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the local traffic laws and customs. It’s important to exercise caution and stay alert while driving in Guatemala.
Traveling Alone to Guatemala
If you are planning to travel alone to Guatemala, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, be sure to research your destination and take appropriate safety measures. It’s a good idea to avoid traveling alone at night and to stay in well-lit areas.
You may also want to consider joining a tour group or hiring a local guide to help you navigate the country. This can be especially helpful if you are not fluent in Spanish, as many locals do not speak English.
Guatemala is a beautiful and fascinating country that is well worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient Mayan ruins, relaxing on a beach, or immersing yourself in local culture, Guatemala has something to offer every traveler. By using this guide to navigate Guatemala’s airports, hotels, transportation, and travel attractions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this amazing country.