Explore all the sights and sounds of a fascinating continent when you book a car rental in Mexico and Central America. Immerse yourself in a vibrant, new culture and enhance your trip by being able to drive to various countries. Go wild by feasting on authentic cuisine, attend local festivals, and visit all the top tourist attractions during your vacation.

You’re going to need a reliable means of transportation to fully experience all your destination has to offer, so rent a car in Mexico and Central America and gain the freedom to explore independently whenever the mood strikes you. After all, having a rental car at your disposal when traveling through Mexico and Central America is the most affordable way to explore the sights and sounds of the continent.

How can I get a cheap rental in Mexico and Central America?

Follow our advice below and you'll be just clicks away from finding a cheap rental car for your vacation:

• Compare the rates of various suppliers when doing your rental research;
• Where possible, choose a rental agency with a non-airport pick-up point;
• Take a careful look at the fuel and mileage restrictions in your rental agreement; 
• Book well in advance of your trip for the lowest rates.

What do I have to keep in mind when renting a car in Mexico and Central America?

Driving regulations and restrictions may differ for each destination, so check with your supplier before handing over your credit card. For example, border crossings are not allowed in many of the countries in this part of the world. 

What kind of car rental should I get?

You can choose from a wide range of vehicles for a great price from many suppliers including Avis, Hertz, Alamo, and many other rental agencies in the Latin America area. The type of car rental you opt for depends on what you plan on doing: if the vehicle is just to get you from the airport to your hotel, you can get a cheap car with a compact design. If, however, your travel plans include seeing much of your destination on a road trip, you might want to consider an SUV for extra comfort and space. 

How old do I have to be to rent a car in Mexico and Central America?

The minimum age to rent a vehicle in Mexico is 21 and the driver must have been in possession of a valid driving license for at least 2 years. A young-driver surcharge may apply for drivers under 25 years. The maximum age to rent a car in Mexico is 75.

The minimum age for car hire differs in Central American countries: in Costa Rica, the renter must be 18, while they must be 21 in Nicaragua. Please check with your rental company for age restrictions. 

Do I need insurance when renting a car?

Yes, you do. As a US citizen, you can buy insurance through CarRentals.com. Third-party liability insurance is mandatory in some countries, including Panama.

In Costa Rica, insurance policies offered by third-party companies not registered in Costa Rica are not accepted. Remember to check these details with your rental provider when arranging your travel plans. 

Can I book with unlimited mileage when renting a car in Mexico and Central America?

It's wise to consider unlimited mileage if you're planning to drive a lot during your stay. This means endless travel without worrying about clocking up the miles and paying for them at the end of your trip! Check your supplier's price plans when you book your car rental. 

Is it possible to hire a car one-way? 

You can usually drop off your vehicle at a different rental counter than the one you collected it from, but there may be an additional fee for this. Remember, though, that you won't be permitted to cross the border in some countries. 

Which sights and/or cities are must-sees in Mexico and Central America?

• Whether you choose to spend your Central American vacation in Guatemala, Honduras or El Salvador, prepare to be impressed by the continent's diversity, history, and beauty.
• For a relaxed boat ride and picturesque scenery, head to Flores in Guatemala.
• Nature lovers mustn't miss out on a visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in Monteverde, Costa Rica, home to a wonderfully varied ecosystem of plants and animals.

What is a good road trip in Central America?

If you find yourself in Nicaragua, make sure you visit Leon, one of these countries oldest cities and home to colonial architecture, old streets, and beaches. From here, you can head 25 kilometers north to Cerro Negro Volcano, which you can hike up for stunning scenery and a 360-degree view of the sea, due to the lack of vegetation on the steep slopes of the volcano.

Traffic tips to keep you safe

The Pan-American Highway is the world's longest single road, interrupted only by the Darien Gap between Central and South America, so it would be amazing for any traveler to experience this drive. One of the most challenging sections of the route is in Costa Rica, where it reaches its highest elevation at over 10,000 feet, so drive with caution and at a sensible speed here, and indeed anywhere along the highway, to ensure that you travel safely. 

If you're driving in Mexico, watch out for animals roaming loosely, even on highways. Be careful of speed bumps ('topes'), in case they are not clearly visible. You don't want to spend your vacation time fixing a tyre!

Make the most out of your trip whether you are traveling solo, with a loved one, or with the whole family. No matter what size or style of vehicle you prefer, CarRentals.com has the perfect car in stock for you. Take advantage of our special low rates and great deals on a huge selection of vehicles, when you book your car hire today. Adventure awaits, so grab your set of rental keys, and get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime.