Interview: Jean-François, Motorcycle Travel Expert in Guatemala

Interview / portrait

Heading out on a motorcycle trip to Guatemala is not about ticking off “must-sees”. It’s about earning your way into a country of highlands, indigenous cultures, and backroads that still feel genuinely local. Jean‑François has been based in Guatemala for years and has been running motorcycle trips there with his agency since 2013. In this conversation, he explains what makes Guatemala so compelling on two wheels, why the right bike choice changes the rhythm of a journey, and how guided travel can keep the adventure real while staying calm, safe, and well paced.

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

Jean‑François: My name is Jean‑François. I live in Guatemala and I’ve been offering motorcycle trips with my agency since 2013.

Why did you choose Guatemala as the country to settle in?

Jean‑François: I chose Guatemala because it has incredible landscapes, indigenous communities, and a unique sense of being far from home. It’s the perfect country for motorcycle travel.

Does your agency have anything that really sets it apart locally?

Jean‑François: Locally, we don’t have real competitors in the “motorcycle” segment. We focus on routes that help riders discover everything worth seeing in Guatemala—using backroads—within a relaxed atmosphere and with professional supervision.

What’s your story—how did you end up creating motorized trips?

Jean‑François: I’ve been a rider for a long time, and I’m also the owner of a tour operator. I decided to combine both and share my passion for motorcycles and Guatemala by creating motorcycle trips.

What bikes do riders use on your Guatemala trips with Planet Ride?

Jean‑François: On our motorcycle trips in Guatemala, riders use Royal Enfield or BMW GS models.

Why that choice of bikes?

Jean‑François: I chose Royal Enfield for the vintage, relaxed feeling—riding differently. The GS models are used for touring: they’re tough, versatile machines. They’re suited to the variety of local road conditions in Guatemala.

In your view, what makes a motorcycle trip to Guatemala unmissable?

Jean‑François: The landscapes are breathtaking, the contact with indigenous communities is powerful, and there’s little tourism overall—especially very little motorcycle tourism. Every day you create unforgettable memories.

What’s the real difference between a “simple trip” and a motorized trip?

Jean‑François: A classic trip lets you discover a beautiful country on fairly established routes, without the epic dimension you get on a motorcycle. A roadtrip lets you get completely off the beaten track, meet surprising people, and live a true adventure—with a high level of supervision and safety, and much more freedom of movement.

What’s the biggest advantage of doing a motorized trip in Guatemala?

Jean‑François: You can leave the main routes, take backroads, and go deep into areas that traditional travel can’t reach as easily.

Your favorite place in Guatemala?

Jean‑François: My favorite place is the Altiplano.

Your best riding memory?

Jean‑François: The contact with local people—often surprised to see a motorcyclist in the middle of nowhere—as long as the rider is respectful.

A word for future Planet Riders?

Jean‑François: Guatemala by motorcycle is 100% different from any other destination. It’s a supervised adventure that leaves you with incomparable encounters, lasting impressions, images, and memories.

Planet Ride pro tip (from the field)

In Guatemala, the temptation is to “pack the day” because distances don’t look huge on the map. Don’t. Plan fewer kilometers than you think, keep time for unexpected stops, and aim to finish your ride with daylight and margin—your concentration and safety are part of the experience, not a constraint.

Travel notes you’ll be glad you read before riding

• Backroads vary fast: paved sections can turn into broken pavement, gravel, or cobblestones near villages—choose tires and pace accordingly.
• Altitude changes the ride: the Guatemalan highlands (Altiplano) can mean cooler air and reduced engine punch compared to lowlands.
• Fuel rhythm: top up when you can outside major towns; don’t assume the next station is open or easy to find late in the day.
• Offline matters: download your maps before you ride; coverage can drop once you leave main corridors.
• Respect opens doors: when you stop in indigenous areas, a calm attitude and simple courtesy change everything.

Want to ride in Guatemala with Jean‑François?

You can explore Planet Ride’s trips here: motorcycle trips in Guatemala.

Mini FAQ

Is Guatemala suitable for riders who don’t want extreme off-road?

Yes—Guatemala can be ridden in a “travel/touring” spirit. The key is choosing an itinerary that favors backroads without turning every day into technical riding.

Which bike is the better choice there: Royal Enfield or BMW GS?

If you want a relaxed, characterful ride, the Royal Enfield fits the vibe. If you want maximum versatility and touring comfort across mixed road conditions, the BMW GS is a strong match.

What’s the single best way to make the trip feel “local”?

Ride beyond the main tourist loops, stop in smaller communities, and keep your pace flexible—Guatemala rewards riders who leave space for encounters.

À savoir aujourd’hui

This interview remains true to what makes Guatemala special on two wheels: diverse landscapes, strong cultural encounters, and the value of backroads. Before you depart, verify current entry requirements, local riding regulations, and the latest safety and routing advice for the areas you plan to cross.