Driving in Guatemala
 

We would like to rent a car and drive in Guatemala for a week. Is it safe?
We want to visit Atltlan, Tikal, Antigua and maybe Chichicastenango.
Can anyone recommend a good local tour operator?

I advise against renting in Guatemala. It would make the trip much more stressful for me for many reasons, including the need to navigate and watch the road instead of simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings, having to pick lodging that will protect your car at night, worrying about leaving it while sightseeing, and being forced to choose places around the lake you can drive to - very limiting.

Shared, scheduled shuttles are cheap and widely available and private shuttles are also an option and would likely be more cost effective than renting. To visit Tikal I'd spring for flights, at least one way (it's ~10 hours by road).

I've pasted below a link to my trip photos/blogs/travelogues and 2 travel agencies I've been pleased with. Happy trails!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/staceyholeman/collections
www.adrenalinatours.com
www.rainbowtravelcenter.com

hi, we were in guatemala last jan/ feb and drove for about 2 weeks. for us the only safety issue was the condition of the roads. a lot of what we travelled on was unpaved and sometimes slippery but we had many adventures along with almost entirely guatemalan drivers. the road from coban to lago itzabal was particularly exciting. just don't expect to make good time
cheers
AndrewDavid

travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1129.html

Rent a tonne in CR safe will not rent in Guatemal

marks you for theft road safety issues..

tourist shuttles deluxe bus driver/guides

far better less liability about as cheap or cheaper

www.insuremytrip.com always wise

Be Careful also do not go off road or take pictures of locals

without permission..extreme negative reaction can result.

Happy Journey,

As an example of cost, the share shuttles from Antigua to Panajachel are typically $10 per person for a ~3 hours trip. Imo it pays to go through a reliable agent, though there are dozens of shops in Antigua that will arrange the trip for you.

We visited Guatemala, rented a car, it was fantastic!
Love Guatemala, only few roads were in bad shape!