As an airline pilot who often faces short layovers, I know how important it is to find the quickest and cheapest way around. Usually, public transportation is not an option due to time constraints, and more often than not, a rental car becomes the best solution.
Renting a car in Guatemala is surprisingly easy and much more convenient than dealing with post-covid issues like inconsistent shuttle schedules or overcrowded chicken buses. Though my overall experience was great, there were a few surprises. I’ve learned a lot about renting a car in this country, and I’ll share the best tips I wish I knew before traveling.
1) Why Choosing a Trusted Car Rental Company Matters
When renting a car in Guatemala, it’s crucial to choose a reputable rental car company. I recommend Hertz, a reliable choice that offers great flexibility. As a President’s Circle member, I trust them for their variety of selection, including trucks, SUVs, and small hatchbacks.
One of the standout features is their modest additional charge to drive across the borders into El Salvador, Honduras, Belize, and Mexico.
This added flexibility allows you to explore incredible sites like Flores and Tikal in Belize, all while ensuring your time in the country is well-spent. With Hertz, you can maximize your time by picking up your car at locations throughout the country. Always compare options before booking to save dollars and find the best deal.
2) Plan Your Route Ahead of Time for a Smoother Drive
Some roads in Guatemala are better than those back home, but others can be much worse. Major highways can sometimes turn into dirt roads that last for miles. You might also pass through rough comunas or neighborhoods in Guatemala City.
From our experience, Google Maps tends to guide you down dirt roads, while Waze tries to avoid them, but this could add 5+ hours to your trip time. It’s a good idea to research your route carefully before getting a rental car in Guatemala.
| Route | Road Type | Best Navigation Tool | Potential Hazards |
| Guatemala City to Antigua | Paved Road | Google Maps | Traffic congestion |
| Guatemala City to Lake Atitlán | Gravel, unpaved roads | Waze | Muddy roads, poor visibility |
| Guatemala City to Tikal | Paved and gravel roads | Google Maps | Long journey, roadblocks |
3)Why a 4×4 Might Be Your Best Bet in Guatemala
When driving in Guatemala, especially if you’re planning to explore off the beaten path, it’s wise to consider renting a 4×4 rental car or truck. My personal favorite is the Toyota Hilux 4×4, which is nearly indestructible and perfect for tough conditions.
Some of the main highways are actually gravel roads, and not just any gravel roads, but rough ones that require a higher car with good clearance. Driving a 4×4, especially when it rains, will make your journey much easier and safer.
While we did see normal cars and even TukTuks managing to make it through terrible roads, the experience was demanding. A 4×4 gives you the confidence to take on those rough routes without worrying about getting stuck.
“Creating the future is the best way to foresee it.” – Abraham Lincoln
4) Use Waze for navigation in Guatemala City.
When driving in Guatemala City, it’s hard to escape the busy streets and unpredictable traffic. However, one tool that can make navigating much easier is Waze. It’s undoubtedly the best app for getting around the city. I’ve personally experienced how Waze can alert you to things like speed cameras, red light cameras, and road hazards, making your drive much safer.
What’s truly phenomenal is how Waze routes you around traffic jams by suggesting alternate routes, saving you valuable time on your trips. During my visits, I’ve even witnessed Waze guiding me through excellent and safe pathways that weren’t initially obvious.
The app’s routing is second to none, offering flexibility when roads are congested or blocked. It’s a must-have if you’re looking for an efficient and safe way to travel around this vibrant city.
5) Confirm Your Transmission Choice Before Renting a Car
When planning to rent a car in Guatemala, one thing you definitely don’t want to overlook is confirming your transmission choice. If you’ve never driven a manual car before, Guatemala might not be the best place to learn, especially since the roads are hilly, mountainous, and filled with volcanos.
The traffic can get bad, making it difficult to handle a manual car in such conditions. That’s why it’s a good idea to spend an extra couple of bucks and opt for an automatic car instead.
But if you’re savvy and can easily drive manual, then that’s great! Just make sure to confirm this choice before you head to the rental agency to avoid any surprises.
6)Be Aware of Speed Bumps on Guatemala’s Roads.
When you’re driven through Central America, one thing that quickly becomes clear is the unpredictable nature of speed bumps. These bumps are erratic, appearing in random locations without warning. They come in different sizes and shapes, and often, they can easily blend in with the surroundings.
In the bright daylight, it can be especially tricky to spot them, making it even more important to stay alert. The worst part is that these bumps might not always be easy to see, causing a sudden jolt if you’re not careful. Whether you’re on a main road or a side street, keep your eyes peeled, and slow down when you notice any potential bumps ahead.
“Amidst challenges, there is always an opportunity.” – Albert Einstein
7) Navigating Guatemala City’s Traffic Nightmare.
Getting in and out of Guatemala City can feel like a real challenge, especially when the traffic is as bad as it gets. LA traffic might be notorious, but Guatemala City has its own issues, including pollution from massive trucks that emit smoke, making the air almost suffocating.
From my own experience, it was often tougher to get in and out of the city than it was to actually be driving within the city limits.
The typical sight on the way in and way out of the city is a constant stream of cars, with the constant stop-and-go feeling. In case you’re not familiar with it, here’s a photo of this chaotic scene: CC BY-SA 2.0 by Rene Hernandez.
8) Parking in Guatemala: What You Need to Know
In Guatemala, finding street parking is usually not a big problem, and you can park anywhere in most places without facing any issues. However, if you plan to park overnight, it’s a good idea to consider using paid parking or a secured parking lot for extra safety.
Many places, including private hotel parking lots, offer these services, and they’re perfectly fine for long-term parking. We personally used these aplenty, and it gave us peace of mind knowing our car was secure. Just keep in mind that paid parking might be the best option in some areas, especially for overnight stays.
“Every long journey starts with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
9) Use a Credit Card That Covers Rental Car Insurance
When renting a car in Guatemala, one of the best things you can do is use a credit card that includes primary rental car insurance. As an airline pilot who rents cars all over the world, I’ve learned that having this type of coverage can save you thousands of dollars.
Unlike other credit cards that only offer secondary insurance, the Chase line of credit cards provides primary insurance, meaning you don’t have to go through the rental car company’s insurance first.
In case of an accident (which can happen quickly in a trick place like Guatemala), you can directly file a claim with your credit card provider. This process is smooth and dealt with quickly and painlessly, with no need to scramble to sort out the details.
I’ve personally never had any issues declining the rental car company insurance, as the credit card rental insurance works just fine on its own.
10)Wait for Gas Station Attendants When Refueling
When you’re at a gas station in Guatemala, such as the one I saw in Chimaltenango, always remember to wait for a gas attendant before you fill up your gas. It’s similar to how things are done in New Jersey, where you can’t pump your own fuel.
A good tip is to be careful and make sure the attendant starts filling up the gas at zero dollars on the pumps. Normally, the pumps automatically reset between fillings, but it’s always smart to double-check because, as I’ve learned, you never know if something might go wrong.
11) Why It’s Best to Avoid Driving at Night
As a general rule-of-thumb, it’s best to avoid driving your rental car at night in Guatemala and across Central America. While it’s not like wolves come out as soon as the sun sets, the risks involved just aren’t worth it.
Nighttime is when drunk drivers are more likely to be on the road, which is a well-known and unfortunate fact in Latin America, including Guatemala.
Even if there are no human-induced dangers, there are many hidden potholes all over the place. You don’t want to risk popping a tire and having to stop somewhere sketchy along the way.
12) What to Do if You Encounter a Roadblock
If you come across a road block in Guatemala, even if it’s unattended, make sure to stop. Some of these blocks are hand made by people demanding compensation for road work they claim to have done. In other cases, things can be worse, though this is extremely rare.
If you do encounter a situation like a mugging, carjacking, or hijacking, don’t try to resist—nothing is worth your life. Personally, I’ve driven for weeks in Central America, even at night, and have never had problems, but it’s always best to be careful just in case.
13) Safety Tips: Keep Your Windows Up in Guatemala City
In Guatemala City, it’s common for thieves to target cars at low speeds, especially when they can easily reach into a stopped car to grab things like phones or wallets. This happens not only in Guatemala but in big Latin American cities all over the world.
Thieves often arrive on motorbikes, which allows for quick entry and exit. They typically travel in pairs, with one driving and the other stealing.
To be safe, always use your judgement and keep your windows up while traversing busy parts of the city. It’s a smart move to stay aware of these risks, even if you’ve never encountered them yourself.
14) Watch Out for Risky Overtaking on Guatemala’s Roads
In Guatemala, drivers tend to overtake in places where it might seem unsafe, which is actually common in the country. While it’s not the worst situation I’ve seen, you should still remain cautious, especially when you spot a pair of headlights speeding toward you around a blind corner.
It’s important to drive attentively and never text and drive to stay safe on the roads. This is something you’ll also find in other countries, like the United States of America, but it’s more frequent here. Always keep an eye on the traffic, as overtaking can happen at any time.
15) Ensure Your Rental Car Has a Spare Tire and Tools
When renting a car in Guatemala, make sure it has a spare tire and the necessary tools. You never know when you’ll be caught off guard by something like a flat tire. I learned this the hard way last year when I was running late for my flight home from Belize. As I was checking out from the hotel, I discovered my car had a flat tire.
Thankfully, I had rented from Hertz, where the spare tire and tools were intact, and I was able to fix it in just a few minutes. If I had rented from a lesser-well-known rental car company, I might have been stuck without the proper safety gear.
Always remember to check your trunk or ask the rental company to show you the spare tire and tools. It’s worth being prepared for a simple pothol to avoid being handicapped by an unexpected situation.
16) One-Way Car Rentals: A Costly Option to Avoid
If you’re planning to rent a car in Guatemala, be aware that one-way rentals can come with a hefty surcharge of about $200-$250. While this might sound like a good option to avoid more expensive plane tickets, it is often more economical to take a bus or shuttle to your destination.
Sometimes, the rental car company may even require a driver to accompany you, and the Hertz Taxi service is a great example, but it is also very expensive. If you can, avoid these types of rentals as they can quickly add up and become more costly than other travel options.
Inspect the Car for Damage Before Driving Off
Before you drive off, thoroughly inspect the rental car for any pre-existing damage. Take note of scratches, dents, or any other issues and report them to the rental agency immediately.
It’s a good idea to take photos or videos of the car from all angles.
This documentation will help avoid being held responsible for damages you didn’t cause when you return the car.
Understand the Road Conditions Beyond the City Limits
While the roads in Guatemala’s major cities might be well-maintained, the situation changes as you head further out.
Rural roads can be poorly paved or unpaved, and some may even be impassable during the rainy season. It’s essential to ask locals or your rental company about the condition of specific routes to ensure safe travel.
Carry Cash for Smaller Expenses in Guatemala
Though credit cards are widely accepted in Guatemala, especially in major cities, many smaller towns and businesses only accept cash.
Having local currency (Guatemalan quetzals) on hand is essential for things like fuel, tolls, or even tips for service personnel. Ensure you have enough cash to cover smaller, everyday expenses when traveling outside major urban centers.
Expect Relaxed Driving Etiquette in Guatemala
Driving in Guatemala might be different from what you’re used to, especially when it comes to road manners. Local drivers tend to be less strict about traffic rules and use their horns frequently.
Keep an eye out for overtaking drivers, especially on narrow or winding roads. Staying patient and alert is key to navigating the roads safely.
Frequently asked questions
Is driving a rental car in Guatemala safe?
Yes, driving in Guatemala is generally safe if you stay alert, follow traffic laws, and use apps like Waze to avoid dangerous areas and road obstacles.
Do I need a 4×4 for driving in Guatemala?
While not essential, a 4×4 is highly recommended, particularly if you’re traveling on rough, unpaved roads or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Can I use my credit card for rental car insurance in Guatemala?
Yes, many credit cards provide primary rental car insurance, which can save you money and simplify the process in case of damage without going through the rental company.
Is parking easy to find in Guatemala?
Parking is generally accessible, but for overnight stays, it’s safer to use paid or secured parking lots for added security against theft or damage.
What should I do if I encounter a roadblock in Guatemala?
Always stop at roadblocks. Some are legitimate, while others may involve people asking for compensation. Exercise caution and follow local advice for safe passage.
Is it advisable to drive at night in Guatemala?
It’s best to avoid nighttime driving due to higher risks, including drunk drivers, poor road conditions, and potential hidden hazards like potholes or unmarked obstacles.
How safe are the roads in Guatemala?
While main roads are often in good shape, rural and unpaved routes can be challenging. Plan your route ahead of time to ensure a safer and smoother journey.
Do I need a special license to rent a car in Guatemala?
No special license is required. A valid driver’s license from your home country and your passport are sufficient to rent a car in Guatemala.
Should I rent an automatic or manual transmission car in Guatemala?
If you’re not experienced with manual cars, it’s best to rent an automatic, as the hilly terrain and busy traffic in Guatemala can make driving a manual difficult.
Should I inspect the rental car before driving in Guatemala?
Yes, thoroughly inspect the car for any existing damage, take photos, and report it to the rental agency. This will help avoid being held responsible for damages when returning the car.
Conclusion
In conclusion, renting a car in Guatemala can be an incredibly convenient and rewarding experience, especially if you plan ahead and follow a few essential tips. From choosing a reputable rental company like Hertz to ensuring you have the right vehicle for the terrain, proper preparation is key to a smooth journey.
Be mindful of the road conditions, especially in rural areas, and always use tools like Waze to navigate the sometimes unpredictable traffic. Understanding the local driving culture, being cautious with speed bumps and roadblocks, and taking safety precautions like keeping windows up in Guatemala City can further enhance your experience.
With a little planning and awareness, driving through this vibrant country will be both safe and enjoyable, allowing you to explore its breathtaking landscapes with confidence.
Stephanie Kiley, founder of PilotXplore, is a commercial pilot and Doctor of Education based in Connecticut. I shares expert aviation insights, travel tips, and airline reviews, making air travel easier for all. Passionate about flying and learning, she loves exploring new destinations and simplifying aviation for travelers.