Guatemala
Holy Week 2025 will bring a strong increase in traffic on the Palín-Secuintla highway. Up to 50 thousand vehicles are expected on the days of greater influx.
The stretch rebuilt at Km 44 of the Palín-Secla highway will be enabled at the end of March 2025, just before the increase in traffic per Holy Week. (Free Press Photo: Enrique Paredes)
The Holy Week of 2025to be held from April 13 to 20, It will bring a significant increase in transit to the southern coast of Guatemala.
Although it has not determined precisely how many vehicles will circulate, a considerable increase in both directions is expected.
The Palín-Squintla Highwaywhich was partially closed due to a sinking in the Kilometer 44will be enabled among the March 29 and 30, after an investment of Q60 million.
After nine months of work, the reconstruction of the affected section is about to conclude.
However, doubts persist about their real impact, especially due to delays in the work and logistics costs that affected thousands of users, especially the Transport and Commerce Sector.
Road closures during repairs tripled the transfer times, reaching seven hours In some cases.
Before sinking, they circulated up to 28 thousand vehicles daily.
Meanwhile, for Holy Thursday (April 17) and Easter Sunday (April 20), they are expected to circulate between 35 and 50 thousand vehicles which will produce an important vehicular load in both directions of the highway.
Also read: After 18 months, Guatemala meets El Salvador to finish bridge in Moyuta
Hours with greater vehicular flow
- City exit: Wednesday 16 and Thursday, April 17 (07.00–20.00).
- Return to the city: Saturday 19 and Sunday, April 20 (07.00–22.00 hours).
Recommended hours to avoid traffic
- Towards the coast:
- Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17: Before 05.00 or after 8:00 p.m.
- Friday 18: between 04.00 and 07.00.
- Return to the city:
- Saturday 19: Before 12.00.
- Sunday 20: After 8:00 p.m.
Tips to avoid setbacks
- Fill the tank before leaving.
- Carry water and snacks, especially with children or older adults.
- Have entertainment on board.
- Maintain patience and respect traffic standards.
- Check traffic in real time.
Safety measures for travelers
Provincial recommends:
- Vehicle review: Brakes, tires, lights and liquids.
- Use of the seat belt: Mandatory for all occupants.
- Respect speed limits: Reduce in rain or mist.
- Avoid distractions: Do not use the phone when driving.
- Do not handle under the effect of alcohol or fatigue.
- Follow the signage and indications of the authorities.
- Carry an emergency kit: Water, tools, kit and flashlight.
- Consult road reports in real time.
Alternate routes
- EAST CA-2 ROUTE: For southern trips.
- Road to Escuintla by Bárcenas.
- Ancient route towards Escuintla.
Also read: 24 of the main cucuruchos costumes in Guatemala during Lent and Holy Week
Characteristics of the new section
- Four lanes and overload.
- Reinforced pavement.
- Since May 2023, there is no toll collection.