ARCAS and travel info
I'm planning a trip to Flores in December to volunteer at ARCAS. Just wondering if anyone has been there and has any info? My plan is to fly into Guat City and from there take a bus to Santa Elena but I'm kind of worried about the buses there. Linea Dorada buses were suggested on some sites I came across but was wondering if anyone would have different suggestions? I know the chicken buses are unsafe and am really worried about the "luxury" buses as well. I would fly straight to Flores but its an extra $500 for return flights to there compared to Guatemala City.If you have any knowledge, experience, or suggestions please let me know!!
1
What are you so worried about?I volunteered there. Took a Linea Dorada bus from Guatemala City and it was just fine. They're perfectly safe. If you take the overnight you'll arrive around 5-6 in the morning and they drop you off right near the dock where the ARCAS guys will get you. It's really easy and safe.
2
A friend of mine really likes Autobuses del Norte to get her between Flores and Guate at night. The advantage for her is that being alone, she can get a seat all by herself.I like the plush seating of Oro de Maya buses with Fuente del Norte. The seats are first class, but the WCs are not. BYO tp and you will be fine.
3
There's not really a lot to worry about with the luxury buses like Linea Dorada or Fuente del Norte. Just take care in Zona 1 of Guatemala city where you board the buses. A female travelling alone should avoid the chicken buses, at least until you become more familiar with travel in Guatemala/CA.5
For FDN, last time I was there, in Guate there were two comedors across the street where you can easily nurse a beer or two and watch for your bus to pull up in the lot- after buying your ticket. ADN has a hotel with restaurant across the street where until an hour before its night bus leaves, you could eat and drink comfortably. I don't recall anything close to LD.Edited by: Mayaphile
