Cobán is about four hours from Guatemala City by bus on a decent road through the mountains. Regular buses and minibuses depart from Guatemala City's Terminal del Norte (Zone 7) throughout the day; the journey takes three to four hours depending on traffic and the number of stops. Shuttle buses from Antigua and Flores can also be booked through tour operators in those towns, though they charge more than the local services.
The road via El Rancho junction (CA-14) is the main route — well paved and straightforward in daylight. Night travel is not recommended on Guatemalan mountain roads in general.
Cobán Airport (IATA: CBV) is 7 km west of town. Domestic flights to/from Guatemala City operate occasionally, though schedules are unreliable; check with local operators before counting on air access.