Driving in Guatemala City is a headache. You can expect narrow streets jammed with traffic at just about any time of day. Things get better once you move out of the center of the city, and the narrow streets give way to broad boulevards. Drives to nearby destinations like Antigua, for example, can be quite pleasant.

Vehicle break-ins are common in the capital, so park in a guarded lot. All expensive and most moderate hotels have protected parking areas. Avoid leaving anything of value in the car.

Car Rental

If you're not intimidated by Guatemala City's winding mountain roads, renting a car is a great way to see the countryside. There are several international agencies at Aeropuerto Internacional La Aurora and in the New City. Reputable local companies include Ahorrent, Tabarini, and Tikal.

Local Agencies

Ahorrent (13 C. 2-02, Zona 9. 2383-2800. www.ahorrent.com) Avis (6 C. 7-64, Zona 9. 2339-3249. www.avis.com) Budget (6 Av. 11-24, Zona 9. 2332-7744. www.budgetguatemala.com.gt) Hertz (Av. Hincupié 11-01, Zona 13. 2470-3710. www.hertz.com) National (12 C. Montúfar 7-69, Zona 9. 2360-2030. national@intelnet.net.gt) Tabarini (2 C. A 7-30, Zona 10. 2331-2643. www.tabarini.com) Tikal (2 C. 6-56, Zona 10. 2332-4721. www.tikalrentacar.com)

Taxis

Taxis can be found waiting at hotels and intersections or can be flagged down on the street. Most do not have meters, so negotiate a price before getting in. We recommend having your hotel or restaurant call a taxi for you at night—establishments are happy to do it—and that you use the services of a cab even if you're only going a short distance. Within a single zone, a ride should cost Q20 to Q25; between zones expect to pay Q30 to Q50.

Contacts

Amarillo Express (2470-1515) Las Américas (2362-0583) Verde Express (2475-9595) Yellow-Car (2437-4824)