Old Town Outfitters, Antigua

Three of us have been bike touring and camping Mexico and Guatemala several weeks by bicycle. Carrying all our gear up and down mountains and over high passes. So we have everything - except backpacks. We went to OX telling them we only needed to rent backpacks and perhaps pay a porter. Although we are in great shape we're not accustomed to scaling 25-35% slopes with gear on our backs. And we like the idea of helping support locals. At first the girl was friendly and said they had packs and offered to book us a local porter. Then suddenly she decided they were only for full priced tours and had no porter's they could contact to meet us at the trailhead. We had expected to pay them for both the porter and the backpack. But no. All or nothing Then she said we couldn't go on our own. A guide was required. And camping spots were assigned to agencies etc and etc. All this we knew to be lies having talked with many in our same circumstances that have done it. This was no misunderstanding. One of us is bilingual Mexican. But apparently either the expensive tour or nothing. We went around the corner to Old Town outfitting where they were far more helpful on how to get a porter, best recommendations for the hike, how to get there, and offered to rent backpacks. A local employee even volunteered his experience. Guess where we will go and stock up on any extra stuff. And they're cheaper also if you need them . They include the entrance. OX does not.

If you need some good quality gear for an adventure, hiking or camping this is the spot. I was surprised to see such a great selection of Patagonia and other quality brands. The staff were super knowledgeable on gear and tours as well. Great to find such a well equipped shop in Antigua!