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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Quetzaltenango
Quetzaltenango
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Quetzaltenango
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Quetzaltenango
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Quetzaltenango
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Quetzaltenango?
Quetzaltenango, also known as Xela, is a city rich in culture and surrounded by stunning landscapes. While public transportation is available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore the region at your own pace.
Explore Beyond the City. Many of Quetzaltenango's most beautiful attractions, such as Laguna de Chicabal and Fuentes Georginas hot springs, are located outside the city centre and are more easily accessible with a car.
Visit Nearby Towns and Villages. A rental car allows you to easily explore nearby towns and indigenous villages like San Andrés Xecul and Zunil, each offering unique cultural experiences and markets.
Enjoy Scenic Drives. The highlands of Guatemala offer breathtaking scenery. With a car, you can take scenic drives along winding mountain roads, stopping at viewpoints and enjoying the natural beauty.
Flexibility and Convenience. Public transport can be unreliable and infrequent in some areas. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel on your own schedule and visit places that are not easily accessible by bus.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Quetzaltenango
Before booking a rental car in Quetzaltenango, ensure you meet the minimum age (usually 21+), have a valid licence (IDP may be required), and understand insurance, deposit, mileage, and fuel policies.
Area
120 square kilometres (46 square miles)
Population
Approximately 180,000 residents
Time Zone
CST (GMT -6)
Ideal for
Off-road adventures
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 5 PM – 7 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Quetzaltenango require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some providers may have a minimum age of 25 for certain vehicle categories. Young driver surcharges may apply for renters under 25.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required for all rentals. Foreign visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their domestic licence. A passport and a credit card in the driver’s name are also typically required.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage options like collision damage waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is usually held on the renter’s credit card and refunded upon vehicle return, provided there is no damage.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals come with unlimited mileage, while others may have mileage restrictions. Fuel policies vary, but many require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS and child seats. Check for potential border crossing fees if planning to drive into neighbouring countries.
Car Rental Prices in Quetzaltenango – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £16 / $20 / €19
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Executive:
from £25 / $31 / €30
7 Seater:
from £28 / $35 / €34
Automatic:
from £16 / $20 / €19
SUV:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to January): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (May to June): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Quetzaltenango?
Compare prices, choose the right car, and review rental terms to avoid surprises. Book early for the best rates, especially in peak seasons.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison site to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences. Consider local rental companies as well as international brands.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s an economy car for city driving or an SUV for exploring the surrounding mountains.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises. Be aware of any restrictions on driving outside Quetzaltenango.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons like Christmas and Easter.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, passport, credit card, and any other required documentation when collecting your rental.
General Information About Quetzaltenango
Quetzaltenango, or Xela, is a city with a rich Mayan heritage, surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes, offering a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.
As the second-largest city in Guatemala, Quetzaltenango offers a unique blend of indigenous culture and colonial charm. While the city is relatively walkable, renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the surrounding region, including the many small towns, volcanoes, and natural attractions.
Top Attractions to Discover
Laguna de Chicabal
A beautiful crater lake located in a dormant volcano, considered sacred by local Mayan communities.
Fuentes Georginas
Natural hot springs nestled in the mountains, offering a relaxing escape.
Parque Centro América
The heart of Quetzaltenango, surrounded by historic buildings and a vibrant atmosphere.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several parking garages are available in the city centre, offering secure parking for a fee.
On-Street Parking
Limited on-street parking is available, but it can be difficult to find, especially during peak hours. Be sure to pay attention to parking regulations and time limits.
Hotel Parking
Many hotels offer free parking for their guests.
Gas Stations in Quetzaltenango
Availability
Several gas stations are located in and around Quetzaltenango, making it easy to refuel your vehicle.
Major Brands
Look for Texaco, Shell, and Puma stations.
Payment
Most gas stations accept cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting Quetzaltenango
Driving Conditions
Road conditions can vary, especially in rural areas. Be prepared for unpaved roads and potholes.
Traffic
Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, especially in the city centre. Plan your trips accordingly.
Altitude
Quetzaltenango is located at a high altitude (over 2,300 metres or 7,500 feet). Take it easy on your first day to acclimatise.
Safety
Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against theft, especially when parking your car in public areas.
Key Transportation Hubs in Quetzaltenango
Bus Stations
Minerva Terminal
The main bus terminal in Quetzaltenango, serving routes to various destinations in Guatemala.
Airport
Quetzaltenango Airport (AAZ)
A small airport located near the city, primarily serving domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Quetzaltenango?
Renting a car in Guatemala is generally straightforward, but you’ll need to meet certain requirements.
A valid driver’s licence from your country of residence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for visitors from non-Spanish speaking countries.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
A major credit card in the driver's name is required for the security deposit. Some companies may accept debit cards, but this is not always the case.
A valid passport is required for identification purposes.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Quetzaltenango as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Back in Xela after years, and it's even better! Having a car made getting around a breeze. Stunning.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 29.03.2025
Family vacation in Quetzaltenango was perfect! Exploring the region with our rental car was incredibly convenient, allowing us to discover hidden gems and enjoy breathtaking scenery.
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 01.09.2024
Relaxing, low-key trip
Chloe Evans
Reviewed: 03.12.2024
Exploring Quetzaltenango by car was fantastic! So much freedom to discover hidden gems. Even squeezed in some beach relaxation afterwards.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 07.09.2024
Perfect weekend getaway! Quetzaltenango's beauty was easily accessible.
David Wilson
Reviewed: 09.10.2024
Chill vibes, good drive
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 19.08.2025
Pleasant, easygoing trip.
Ava Rodriguez
Reviewed: 09.05.2025
Low-key, good times.
Kai Lee
Reviewed: 04.04.2025
Relaxing, good roads.
Noah Peterson
Reviewed: 15.02.2025
Such a smooth trip! Getting around Quetzaltenango with a car was effortless, leaving plenty of time to relax on the coast afterward.
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 15.11.2024
Quetzaltenango was amazing! Having a car made exploring so easy. The only downside? The local market was a bit overwhelming.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 31.03.2025