Rental Car
A rental car is especially worthwhile on the Yucatán Peninsula (cenotes, archaeological sites) and in Central Mexico (colonial cities). In Mexico City and Oaxaca City, a car is more of a hindrance.
Prices & Booking
| Region | Small Car/Day | Compact/Day |
|---|---|---|
| Cancún/Yucatán | 400–800 MXN (21–43€) | 600–1,200 MXN (32–65€) |
| CDMX | 350–700 MXN (19–38€) | 500–1,000 MXN (27–54€) |
| Others | 300–600 MXN (16–32€) | 450–900 MXN (24–48€) |
Important Tips
- Full insurance with no deductible — a must! Topes (speed bumps) and potholes take their toll. Local insurance is legally required.
- Topes: Mexico's notorious speed bumps. They come without warning, are often unmarked, and can ruin your suspension. Drive slowly!
- Avoid night driving: Poorly lit roads, animals on the road, unmarked topes. Drive during the day!
- Police checks: Stay calm, show papers. If an officer asks for a "mordida" (bribe), insist on an official ticket (multa oficial). Often, they let you go.
- Toll roads (Cuota) are faster and safer than free roads (Libre). The toll is moderate (50–200 MXN).
- Gasoline: Fill up at Pemex stations. Price: approx. 22–24 MXN/liter (1.20–1.30€). Make sure the meter is set to zero!
💡 Tipp
On the Yucatán Peninsula, a rental car is worth its weight in gold: You reach remote cenotes and ruins without tourist groups. Book from Cancún or Mérida, full insurance included. Pre-order automatic!
