Guatemala Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Guatemala

Renting a car in Guatemala offers the freedom and flexibility to explore remarkable attractions at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while travelling to stunning locations like Lake Atitlán, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and romantic experiences. Tikal National Park is another fantastic destination, perfect for adventure and outdoor pursuits, showcasing the country's natural beauty. If you're planning to visit urban areas, a rental car allows you to navigate cities like Antigua Guatemala, where you can explore Central Park, the Antigua Guatemala Cathedral, and the Casa Santo Domingo Museum. Guatemala City, the bustling metropolis, features Avenida La Reforma and Mundo Petapa, providing a vibrant city experience. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, Santa Cruz La Laguna near Lake Atitlán offers cultural sites like the Church of Saint Peter and Casa Cakchiquel Arts Center. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, romantic getaways, or family-friendly destinations, renting a car ensures you can tailor your travel plans to suit your interests and enjoy the diverse offerings of Guatemala with ease.

Most popular car hires in Guatemala

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice among travellers, accommodating up to 5 individuals and allowing for 2 medium suitcases. This option is particularly ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families seeking an economical way to navigate Guatemala. Its compact size makes it easy to handle in urban settings while still providing adequate space for luggage.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is an excellent option for those travelling in groups or families, also accommodating 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle offers added space and comfort, making it perfect for longer journeys around Guatemala. Its versatility allows you to tackle various terrains while providing a spacious interior for all passengers.
• Compact: The Compact car is another highly booked option, accommodating 5 travellers with the capacity for up to 3 medium suitcases. This type is ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families looking for a balance of space and fuel efficiency. It is particularly well-suited for navigating both city streets and rural areas, making it a versatile choice for exploring Guatemala.

Where to stay in Guatemala

• Antigua Guatemala: A charming city renowned for its outdoor and romantic experiences, Antigua Guatemala offers picturesque scenery and rich cultural heritage. Key attractions include the Central Park, perfect for family outings, and the Antigua Guatemala Cathedral, ideal for culture enthusiasts. Nearby, you can explore the Casa Santo Domingo Museum, showcasing archaeology and anthropology. For shopping, visit the local market and shopping areas. The city is also home to delightful cafes and wineries, making it a great spot for food and drink lovers.
• Guatemala City: As a bustling metropolis, Guatemala City presents a vibrant mix of outdoor and scenic experiences. Must-visit locations include Avenida La Reforma, a lively street ideal for city exploration, and Mundo Petapa, a theme park perfect for family fun. The Avenida Las Américas stands out as a notable landmark. The city is filled with shopping centres and dining options, offering diverse culinary delights. Spend your days enjoying the urban atmosphere, and don't miss the nearby parks and lakes for a tranquil escape.
• Flores: Nestled in a stunning natural setting, Flores is perfect for those seeking adventure and outdoor activities. The Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers breathtaking scenery and thrilling exploration opportunities. The archaeological site of Tikal is also nearby, rich in history and culture. For a relaxing day, visit the Flores Dock, which provides access to beautiful lakes and beach areas. The local shopping areas and cafes enhance your experience, making Flores a delightful destination for adventure seekers.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Guatemala

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most convenient option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge; however, the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected arise during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on undertaking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Guatemala

The best value period to rent a car in Guatemala is November, as it features slightly low prices despite moderately high demand. February and March are also good options, offering slightly low prices with average demand. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, accompanied by slightly high demand. June and August follow closely, also experiencing slightly high prices and average demand levels. This pattern suggests that summer months can be pricier for rentals.