Guatemala Guide
Getting around
By bike
Bicycles are quite common in Guatemala, and cycling has to be one of the most popular sports. You'll be well received almost anywhere if you travel by bike, and if you've got the energy to make your way through the highlands, it's a great way to see the country. Most towns will have a repair shop where you can get hold of spare parts, although you still need to carry the basics for emergencies on the road. Mountain bikes make the going easier, as even the main roads include plenty of formidable potholes, and it's a rare ride that doesn't involve at least one steep climb. Chicken buses will carry bikes on the roof if you can't face the hills. In case you didn't bring your own bike, you can rent them in towns including Antigua, Panajachel and Quetzaltenango; mountain bikes can be rented by the day or week. In flat Utila it's easy to find a basic bike for about US$2 a day.