In Panajachel, as in any municipality of Sololá, you will notice that the most typical means of transport are the so-called tuc tuc 🚖 (because of the sound their engines make). These vehicles, a kind of three-wheeled motorized taxi, are not very comfortable, but they do their job: they are able to enter even the most unusual corners of the municipalities.
To use them, you just need to make a hand signal ✋ to request a ride. They will stop if they can… and if they want 😅. Don’t be surprised if they don’t stop, even if they are empty, as they often have other priorities. If they stop and there is already someone on board, you will have to share the ride, as each one can fit up to three passengers .
Although they are not the most comfortable, these curious little devices will be your best allies 🚜. However, you must “get your act together” (as we say locally). Our Colombian friends would say: “don’t give papaya” . If you are a foreigner 🌎, they will probably try to charge you more, but you should know that the usual cost of the fare is Q5.00 per person. In municipalities like San Juan, they could charge you up to Q25.00 😱. Tip: always ask before getting on to avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of the trip.
Please note that this means of transport is usually limited to a municipality or its nearby urban area. To move between more distant municipalities, your best option will be pick-ups 🚙.
The pick-ups
This mode of transport consists of pick-up trucks 🚐, usually very old models (known as 22R locally), adapted with a body on the bed so that passengers can sit or hold on to it.
• Cost : Prices vary depending on distance, but as a reference, from Panajachel to Santa Catarina Palopó they usually charge Q5.00 .
• Advantage : This is the best way to travel between municipalities, since a tuk tuk could charge you up to Q30.00 for the same trip.
• Tip : Before you get on, ask how much you'll be charged and be prepared for the possibility of standing 🚶♂️, especially if there's no room on the two wooden benches 🪵. Just make sure to hold on tight to avoid accidents.
Traditional taxis
In larger municipalities like Sololá or Nahualá, you can find conventional taxis 🚕 (four-wheeled vehicles). However, they are not available in all municipalities . This type of transportation can be a challenge, as it is not always easy to find or negotiate.
If you prefer to move around more freely and enjoy the scenery 🌄, consider renting a bike 🚲 . We can help you with this if you need it. It's a great option to explore Panajachel and the municipalities around the lake at your own pace.
Something important
In Panajachel, and in practically all the municipalities on the lake, there is no public transport system organized by the State 🏛️. This means that the offer depends on local transporters, and prices can vary. Always ask before boarding and stay alert .
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