Several bus lines travel daily from Guatemala City to Xela. The journey takes between 3.5 and 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Busses leave Guatemala City between 4:00 am and 7:30 pm.

We recommend Linea Dorada due to its luxury service, speed, and security. For the most up to date and accurate list of bus times to and from Guatemala City and Xela, CLICK HERE

Juan Sisay is happy to help our students arrange transportation from the airport to our doorstep. We will work with you if you need help getting here, and once you arrive in Xela, we offer free pick up from the bus station and drop off at your host family. All you need to do is let us know in advance when you plan on arriving

If you would like a personal pickup at the airport, Juan Sisay can arrange for private transportation directly to a bus terminal. Otherwise, if you are comfortable taking a taxi, this option is easy, safe, and reliable as well.

Once you get to Xela, you may need a map to orient yourself. This site hosts a map of the metro Quetzaltenango area: CLICK HERE

What to bring

Summer (or dry season) in Xela runs from March to May; this is the warmest part of the year but it never gets too hot. If you like sunny weather, this is the perfect time in year to visit.

Between May and September begins the rainy season in Guatemala. Please make sure to bring a raincoat. The weather is normally sunny warm in the mornings, but it rains in the afternoon.

From November to January the weather gets quite cold. There is no heating at the buildings, so we recommend bringing warm clothes. We suggest to bring the following items:

•  Long and short sleeve shirts.

•  Sweaters or sweatshirts

•  Sweatpants (to sleep)

•  Fleece jackets

•  Raincoats

•  Long pants or jeans

•  Shorts

•  Bathing suit

•  Walking shoes

Weather in other regions is either warmer or colder, so we recommend to bring a bit of everything!

You may also consider bringing the following:

•  Towel

•  English- Spanish Dictionary

•  ATM card