Part of our Central and South America guide.
2 places and guides from our Central and South America coverage, gathered into one page.
Guatemalan Chicken Bus Adventure
Ever wondered what it's like to ride a Guatemalan chicken bus? These colorful, repurposed American school buses offer a unique travel experience. Imagine winding through scenic mountain roads with locals, chickens, and maybe even a goat or two. The vibrant decorations and lively atmosphere make each journey memorable. While it might seem chaotic, there's an unspoken order to the madness. Drivers skillfully navigate narrow paths, ensuring everyone reaches their destination. Guatemalan Chicken Buses are old American school buses repurposed for public transportation. For those seeking travel tips in Guatemala, riding a chicken bus is a quintessential local experience that connects you to the country's everyday rhythm. The buses are often the most affordable way to move between towns, with fares rarely exceeding a few quetzals for short hops. They run frequently from major terminals like Guatemala City's Estación Central, and routes extend to destinations such as Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Chichicastenango. Keep small bills handy, as drivers rarely have change for larger notes. The buses stop anywhere along the route—just wave to flag one down. Expect a full bus, with passengers standing in the aisle and luggage strapped to the roof. The journey is bumpy, but the views of volcanoes and highland villages are unmatched.
Backpacking Central and South America - Ridiculous Bus Encounters
Embarking on a backpacking adventure through the diverse and enchanting lands of Central and South America is an experience like no other. From ancient ruins and pristine beaches to vibrant festivals and bustling markets, this region offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. While exploring these countries, it's not only the awe-inspiring landscapes and vibrant cities that leave a lasting impression, but also the quirky encounters with fellow travelers and locals. Imagine yourself sitting on a crowded bus, backpack strapped tightly to your shoulders, and an excitement bubbling inside you as you wait for the adventure that lies ahead. Buses are the backbone of overland travel here, connecting cities like Panama City to Cartagena via the Darien Gap route—though that crossing typically requires a sailboat or a flight. In Colombia, long-distance buses run from Bogotá to Medellín (about 9 hours) and from Medellín to Cartagena (about 13 hours), with prices ranging from 30,000 to 80,000 Colombian pesos depending on the company and comfort level. For travel planning essentials in Colombia, consider booking overnight buses to save on accommodation costs. In Guatemala, chicken buses connect Antigua to Flores (about 12 hours) for around 100 quetzals. In Peru, Cruz del Sur and Oltursa offer luxury bus services with reclining seats and meals on routes like Lima to Cusco (about 21 hours). For travel inspiration in Peru, the bus journey through the Sacred Valley is a highlight. In Nicaragua, buses from Managua to Granada cost about 30 córdobas and take one hour. For those renewing a Nicaraguan passport in the USA, note that bus travel within the country remains the cheapest option for locals and tourists alike. In Honduras, buses run from San Pedro Sula to the Bay Islands ferry terminal at La Ceiba (about 4 hours, 150 lempiras). Guanaja: why the tiny Bay Island should be on your list—the ferry from La Ceiba to Guanaja takes 90 minutes and costs around 400 lempiras. In Costa Rica, buses from San José to Manuel Antonio take about 3 hours and cost around 6,000 colones. Several countries border Venezuela, including Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana, but overland crossings from Venezuela into Colombia have been limited in recent years. San Andres Island - 13 things to know includes the fact that the island is part of Colombia but geographically closer to Nicaragua, and flights from Bogotá take about 2.5 hours. Countries border Costa Rica to the north (Nicaragua) and to the southeast (Panama), making bus crossings straightforward at border posts like Peñas Blancas.
