One of the best things to do on your trip to Playa del Carmen is to actually get out of town and explore the state of Quintana Roo. Whether you want to take a day trip to check out a cenote, venture to the pyramid of Chichen Itza, or visit the stunning lagoons of Bacala, renting a car offers ease, flexibility, and comfort.
Car Rental in Playa del Carmen is also a much more economical option compared to hiring private drivers or taxis if you plan on going long distances. While collectivos and the ADO bus provide transportation to all major locations, renting a car provides a quick and easy way to reach your destination, or allow travel off the beaten path.
For the most part, it is safe to rent cars in this part of Mexico and you may drive a car with an international driver’s license if you are a tourist. The roads and highways in Quintana Roo are well maintained, well marked, and easy to navigate – even if you are a foreigner.
Check out KKIS’s top tips for car rental and where you can hire your car.
Trips from Playa del Carmen in a Rental Car
If you are planning a short trip from Playa del Carmen, some popular destinations that are within a two-hour drive include Cancun, Tulum, Valladolid, Cozumel, and Isla Mujeres.
A rental car can also easily access places that are a little further away such as Merida, Holbox, and Bacalar, which are four hours or less. Renting a car will allow you to take detours along the way to beaches, cenotes, adventure parks, and local markets and restaurants.
The Cost of Renting a Car in Playa Del Carmen
There are a wide variety of options for renting a car, however, it’s important to do your research when it comes to rental companies and the terms for renting a car.
When renting a car remember that rates may be higher as the demand for rentals increases in the high season between December and May each year. Also consider if your travel dates fall on a national or international holiday, as that will likely impact prices as well.
You may be wondering: How much is a car rental in Playa del Carmen? The cost can vary widely on a host of factors such as type of car, rental duration, time of year, and the company. During off-peak season prices can range from $30 to $40 USD for a basic economy car. In high season (around November-March) it can range from $40 to $60 USD.
It’s recommended to compare prices from different rental companies and book in advance to get the best rate. When comparing rates, be sure to ask about additional fees, insurance requirements, or deposits that may apply when renting a car.
Everything You Need to Know about Rental Companies
When it comes to car rental companies, be sure to evaluate each company by looking at their online reviews on Google. Unlike other tourist areas of the world, in Playa locally owned companies with independent owners tend to receive higher reviews and offer more personalized service.
If you are flying into Cancun, the best place to rent a car is at the Cancun International Airport. Because there are so many car rental companies onsite, rentals at the airport often offer the lowest rates and the widest selection of vehicles to choose from.
In peak season, it’s advised to book ahead of time online. Be sure to have your reservation printed out or easily accessible on your phone when you arrive. It’s important to read the fine print and note that internet deals are not always what they appear to be. If you are going to book online, it’s a good idea to check with the company to confirm the price, deposit amount, car model, and whether or not insurance is included or required.
It has been noted that often well-known name car rental agencies run as franchises, so what may be the usual company practice may differ slightly in terms of customer service and quality. There have been known to be some occasions where a car office has charged a hidden fee, or even been closed before the listed time making it difficult to drop off your vehicle. Be aware!
Car Rental Companies in Playa Del Carmen
If you are looking for a car rental in Playa del Carmen, some of the most popular rental companies include:
Quick Cars
A personal recommendation for a reliable car rental company in Playa del Carmen had to be Quick Cars. These guys have a range of vehicles, from compact to large SUVs. The best part of their service is that they will drop off and collect the car at your door, so no need to wait around for an office to open or long queues at drop off.
Plus you can rent without a credit card. Just a small cash deposit secures your rental. They can also organize transportation, airport shuttles, and private car sales.
Find them on Social Media.
Quick Cars – Trusted Car rental in Playa del Carmen
Avis
(Lote 4 Manzana 73 Zona 1 and Av. 10, Mza. 26, lote 2 Col)
Open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Online booking available.
Hertz
(AV. 15 Sur Y Aviacion, Plaza Paraiso and Plaza Tucan, Av. 10 Norte, C. 14 Nte. Bis esquin)
Open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 .m. Online booking available.
Dream Car Rental
(Calle 125 Nte. sur, Bellavista)
This rental agency is independently owned by a French-Canadian couple. They have a free airport shuttle provided. Reservations can be made online here.
Firefly
(6 Avenida 10 Norte entre 14 y 16, Centro),
Owned by the Hertz Corporation and open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Book online here.
Isis Car Rental
(10 Avenida Nte. entre Calles 2 & 4)
Locally owned and operated. Learn more here.
Mex Rent A Car
(located at the Tukan Hotel at Ave. 10, between 14 north bis y 16 north)
Reservations can be made online here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Playa del Carmen
When renting a car, you’ll want to take steps to ensure you understand the contract you are signing, insurance coverage, and document the condition of the car upon rental and return. Here is a checklist:
- Be sure to take videos and photos of the car at the time of pickup and document any scratches, dents or damage to the car’s interior or exterior. You’ll want to point out any damages, no matter how small, to the staff prior to leaving and ensure the rental company also documents the condition at the time of pick up. Be sure to do the same when the car is returned.
- Make sure you understand the contract and any hidden fees or charges you may encounter if the car is damaged, not returned on time or if you need rental extended for any reason. Also consider any restrictions that may be placed on the rental such as additional drivers, taking the car on ferries or driving across borders. For example, many car rental companies have restrictions or extra fees and permits needed if you wanted to drive to a bordering country like Belize.
- Be sure to understand the deposit amount that is required upfront as well as the process and timeline for getting the deposit back.
- Prior to booking ensure you can understand and read the contract and ask if the company will accommodate language needs or provide translation services.
- Check to see if additional insurance is required and what types of insurance will be accepted by the rental company.
Before You Drive Away… Think of KKIS
We all know that Playa del Carmen is a slice of paradise. And while you’re cruising around in your rental car, soaking up the sun and living the dream, there are young minds here who are struggling to get the education they deserve.
High school education around here isn’t always a given. Families are dealing with a lot—admission fees, uniforms, school supplies. Plus the battle of choosing to go to school rather than working immediately to support the family.
But here’s where you come in, superhero style. For less than what you spend on your daily car rental ($2 USD per day), you could help a student stay in high school. That’s like skipping one overpriced coffee to give a kid a shot at a brighter future. Talk about a feel-good moment!
So while you’re out there, enjoying every twist and turn of Playa del Carmen’s roads, why not throw some good karma into the mix? Your donation to KKIS could be the game-changer these kids need. Think of it as putting some extra horsepower behind their dreams.
Reach out today to find out how you can donate or volunteer. Because nothing feels better than giving back, except maybe a sunroof and a scenic drive down the 307!