Due to its elevation, Guatemala City has a subtropical highland
climate. This, combined with the windiness of the area, results in
the city having moderate temperatures for most of the year. May is
the warmest month, with temperatures averaging around 69°F (21°C),
and temperatures drop only slightly to an average of 65°F (19°C)
from October through to January. The rainy season in Guatemala City
is between May and October, with the heaviest rains in September.
December through February tends to be the most popular time for
tourists to visit Guatemala City.
Guatemala City La Aurora International
Airport
Location: The airport is situated four miles (6km) south of
Guatemala City, and about 16 miles (25km) from Antigua.
Time: Local time is GMT -6.
Transfer Between Terminals:
The terminals are connected.
Getting to the city:
Most hotels will offer transfer services from the airport, and
there are several shuttles into Guatemala City and Antigua
throughout the day; however, these have no strict schedule and
often rely on the shuttle filling up first. Taxis and regular buses
are also available. Car rental is another option.
Car Rental:
Car rental companies include Avis and Thrifty, along with some
local companies.
Airport Taxis:
Flat-rate taxis are available outside the terminal building.
Facilities:
There are bars, shops and restaurants at the airport. Shopping
at the airport is particularly good, with plenty of local crafts on
offer. An ATM is available in the departure lounge. There is a
currency exchange at the airport, but it is often better to find an
official bank offering foreign exchange services, as they offer
more reasonable rates.
Parking
Parking is available at the airport, however visitors are
advised against leaving their car parked in the lot overnight due
to security reasons.
The main gateway to the country is La Aurora International
Airport, which is located on the edge of the city centre. Public
transit in Guatemala City is problematic, and may be frustrating
for visitors. A Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), the Transmetro, serves the
city. Operating hours are between 4.30am and 10pm during the week,
and 4.30am and 9pm over the weekend.
Visitors arriving in Guatemala City by bus from other cities
will be dropped off at one of the BRT stations on the periphery of
the city. These intercity buses have either first or second-class
options, with the latter being renowned for being extremely
uncomfortable and overcrowded.
Both the local and inter-city buses tend to be the popular
stomping ground for armed robbers and muggers; visitors are advised
to always be aware of their surroundings and to avoid the use of
the bus system at after dark.
Taxis are available and can easily be hailed at inter-city bus
terminals. In other parts of the city it is best to phone ahead and
book one in advance. Taxi Amarillo (yellow) cabs are metered and
trustworthy.