What is a chicken bus in Guatemala?
Chicken buses, officially known as “camionetas;”, are the country’s local bus connecting all of Guatemala’s villages, towns, and cities. It is the main form of local transport usually the cheapest option for travelling for any distance.
Why do they call them chicken buses?
They are called “chicken buses” by tourists because they are commonly used by locals for the transport of stock (including live-stock such as chickens) from one place to another. Camionetas are usually staffed by a driver and helper or ayudante.
Why are chicken buses so important to Guatemala and other Central American countries?
There are a couple of reasons why they’re called chicken buses. One may be because passengers are crammed into the buses like chickens crammed into a truck en route to market. Another reason may be because passengers frequently carry chickens – and other livestock – as well as their suitcases with them on the journey.
Where did chicken buses originate?
The term “Chicken Bus” originates in Guatemala and comes from the fact that passengers would often transport live animals on them.
Are chicken buses safe?
Are Chicken Buses safe? These are high speed buses with no seat belts and they can get VERY cramped, and there is always a risk of losing your luggage. Chicken Buses are safe to a degree and I will always recommend them to other travellers, but like all transport in Central America, there is an aspect of risk.
How safe is Guatemala?
Guatemala has one of the highest violent crime rates in Latin America, one of the world’s highest homicide rates and a very low arrest and detention rate. Most incidents of violent crime are drug- and gang-related. They occur throughout the country, including in tourist destinations.
What are chicken busses?
A chicken bus (Spanish: “camioneta de pollos” or “trambilla”, the latter a hypercorrection of “tranvía”) is a colloquial English name for a colorful, modified and decorated bus that transports goods and people between communities in various Latin American countries, especially Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador,
What types of transportation are there in Guatemala?
Numerous forms of transportation are available in Guatemala – including everything from boats and tuk tuks to private shuttle vans and taxis. If you’re traveling from Guatemala City to Flores (near Tikal), take the popular flight, which will save you heaps of time.
How do you greet people in Guatemala?
When meeting someone for the first time, it’s customary to say, “mucho gusto” (a shortened version of “nice to meet you”). Simply saying “hola” is considered too casual. Other greetings include “buenos días” (good morning), “buenas tardes” (good afternoon), and “buenas noches” (good evening).
What is Guatemala known for?
Guatemala is best known for its volcanic landscape, fascinating Mayan culture and the colorful colonial city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But this small Central American country has a wealth of homegrown produce and talent.
How do you get around in Guatemala?
Buses are the main method of transportation for most Guatemalans, and many travelers choose to save money by taking buses. Often referred to as “chicken buses”, these local inter- and intracity buses are often set in old U.S. school buses. They can be crowded and you might have to stand for the entire bus ride.