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CS Mexico Car rental
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Within Mexico there is a National Highway Network of roads stretching across around 246,800 miles (392,186 kilometres) in total. The network is organized into rural roads, state roads, and federal roads. They’re then further classified by how many lanes are on the road – the majority are two-lane highways which are known as carrateras, and the rest are four or more-lane freeways or expressways which are known as autopistas.
In Mexico, the speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour – when you see a red round signage indicating the speed limit, bear in mind it’s in kilometres. The national speed limit varies depending on terrain conditions and how busy the area is. If a street is small and crowded, the speed limit is 6 miles per hour (10 kilometres per hour) while built-up residential areas are typically 30 miles per hour (48 kilometres per hour). The highways, or carrateras, have a speed limit of 55 miles per hour (80 kilometres per hour) unless stated otherwise. Multi-lane freeways or expressways (autopistas) have an average limit of 70 miles per hour (112 kilometres per hour). However, limits vary depending on the type of vehicle being driven.
Driving in Mexico is an incredible way to enjoy this beautiful country. Discover the coastal roads, vast countryside, and cultural landmarks without limits. The landscape is remarkable, and the views are out of this world – any tourist is spoilt for choice when considering the variety in store. For a mix of desert and coastal views, take a trip along the Baja Peninsula – the second-longest peninsula in the world. The trip can last days or hours, with endless road trip possibilities cruising past the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez coastlines, through rock canyons, and passing authentic, tourist-free towns. Or, take on a multi-day trip for the ages and explore the majestic Yucatán Mayan archaeological sites. Tick off all the big hitters, including the Tulum Ruins, Chichén Itzá, Edzná Ruins, and more. Yucatán road trippers also get to see pink salt lagoons, white-sand beaches, and haciendas along the way. Toll roads are a fast and safe way to travel in Mexico, so stick to these as much as possible. Try to avoid driving at night and keep an eye out for unmarked speed bumps as well as sneaky potholes.
Guide to Mexico
The time zones are split into four categories in Mexico – Pacific Standard Time (PST), Mountain Standard Time (MST), Central Standard Time (CST), and Eastern Standard Time (EST). Each time zone is one hour in front of the next. For example, if it was 1pm in Tijuana (PST), it’d be 2pm in Hermosillo (MST), 3pm in Mexico City (CST), and 4pm in Cancún (EST).
Mexico is set across 31 states and Mexico City, which is its own entity. It’s the seventh most visited country in the world, welcoming around 32 million visitors in 2021. It’s not hard to see why – the country is steeped in rich history, with each state offering its own diverse and enriching culture. There are countless things to do wherever you go, with something for every kind of traveller. Be it soaking up the sun on a palm fringed beach or trekking through the jungle, there’s much to discover in this exciting country.
Mexican cuisine is among some of the best in the world. It has strong links to the country’s history, which is as diverse as its landscape. It’s been heavily influenced by Spanish and Aztec culture, along with various indigenous cultures. They have a deep love for bold flavours, street food, no-nonsense ingredients, and spice. Every region has its own dishes that goes far beyond tacos and burritos – try montados in Chihuahua, memelas in Oaxaca, and torta de chochinita in Yucatán.
The country’s love of food has strong ties to holidays. For example, tamales are a popular choice for Christmas, atole is often enjoyed during New Year’s celebrations, and pan de muertos (bread of the dead) are always seen at Day of the Dead celebrations. Day of the Dead is an important holiday in Mexico – it’s a day for families to welcome back the souls of their deceased loved ones. The reunion involves a lot of food, drink, dancing, and celebration.
Places to visit in Mexico
There are so many great locations to visit in Mexico, but the most popular destinations are Mexico City, Tulum, and Cancún. Mexico City is bursting with vibrant culture, a mix of street food to fine dining restaurants, and endless cultural landmarks. The city vibrates with spirit, past and present – a stroll through the downtown area gives an insight into the pre-Hispanic and colonial eras, as well as the sprawling metropolis it is today. It’s cultural diversity at its best – where old-school local markets meet glamorous designer shopping malls.
Cancún is Mexico’s answer to Las Vegas. It’s wild and energetic. But being a popular Spring Break destination, what else would you expect? There are excellent adults-only all-inclusive resorts that offer all-day partying, but you can also find family-friendly resorts. On the other hand, Tulum is a complete change of pace. The boho-chic town is incredibly beautiful, with sugary white sand beaches and translucent waters. It’s a laid-back tropical paradise. Plus, it’s in easy reach of beautiful Mayan ruins.
While these and other popular tourist destinations are fantastic, there’s a lot more to discover. Mexico’s increase in backpacker tourism has encouraged more people to explore beyond the usual choices. San Miguel, Mazatlán, Oaxaca, Cuernavaca, Puerto Es, Bacalar, and Pujol are just a few of the surprising and exciting destinations on offer. The hardest part will be deciding where to go first!
Transport, airports, and driving in Mexico
By plane
There are 111 major international and national airports in Mexico, serving 31 states and Mexico City. Mexico City has the largest and busiest airport in the country, with Cancún being home to the second busiest. Flying to Cancún International Airport is a great choice if you want to be based in the Yucatan Peninsula, amid famous Mayan ruins while also being by the coast. Many of Mexico’s most famous and most visited cities or regions have their own airports, including Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, San Jose del Cabo, and Tijuana. No matter where you go or how you get there, hiring a car with Enjoy Travel is the best way to ensure you have a chance to see all the brilliant things Mexico has to offer.
By train
Since the railway service was privatized in 1995, Mexico only has one remaining train line. However, it is an excellent one. The El Chepe route from the city of Los Mochis to Chihuahua with unbelievable vistas through the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range. Even though the journey is fantastic with otherworldly views, it’s more of a tourist attraction than a means of transportation. Just one train service is extremely limiting – getting around the country by plane and car is a much easier, more straightforward mode of transport.
By bus
Mexican bus drivers have gained somewhat of a reputation for their crazy driving. However, the government have been working hard to improve safety with consistent checks across the board, so the standard is extremely higher now. There are over 35 bus companies with terminals and depots in every city and most towns – it’s a good choice for long-distance travelling on a budget.
By boat
Mexico is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, with islands dotted around it. Ferries connect Baja California with the Mexican mainland – they usually run over night which saves on a night’s accommodation. There are also smaller boats linking popular resorts on the mainland to the Caribbean islands – examples include Cancún to Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, and Chiquilá to Holbox.
Some rules of the road
- The legal limit of blood alcohol content is 0.08%
- The legal driving age is 15 with legal supervision and 18 without guidance
- Mexican drivers drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left – there are signs indicating that overtaking is prohibited on some roads
- Watch out for drivers turning without indicating
- Slow down in remote areas – there are usually civilians walking along the highways
- Always carry your International Driver’s Permit – it’s required by law
- Be careful where you park – a sign with the letter ‘E’ and a cross through it indicates that parking isn’t allowed here
Car rental in Mexican airports
Booking your rental car in advance allows you a greater choice when choosing your vehicle and allows you to save money with our 5% online discount. Costs vary according to your choice and the time of year for your booking, with the peak season between November and April being more expensive. Depending on your requirements, car rental can be as little as $6 a day. Typical car rental companies at Mexican airports include Hertz, Enterprise, Sixt, Thrifty, Easirent and Europcar.