Guatemala is one of Central America's least known countries but those who make the trip find themselves in a fascinating and colourful place with a rich history. There are over a thousand sites with evidence of Mayan history and many cultural attractions, as well as mountains, beaches and jungles in Guatemala. So whether you opt for the forest, the coastline or the Cuchumatanes Mountains – or all of these – you can be sure of having a wonderful trip.

Many people arrive over the border from Mexico by bus or by boat, but those arriving by plane will land at La Aurora International Airport (GUA), which serves not only Guatemala City but the majority of the country. From Guatemala City it is easy to get to other parts of the country to see the major sites. One of the most popular is the beautiful town of Antigua, which is surrounded by volcanoes and was the country's first capital. Lake Atitlan, up in the highlands close to the town of Panajachel, is also well worth visiting. Another impressive lake is Lago de Izabel, which is a bit off the beaten track but worth the trip.

For the very best deal on cheap car hire in Guatemala, use TravelSupermarket to pre-book your Guatemala car hire. We’ll search for the price that suits your budget and ensure you can collect your vehicle when you arrive at La Aurora Airport. Alternatively, you can pick up from one of the many convenient downtown locations in Guatemala.

No holiday in Guatemala is complete without seeing its Mayan temples, palaces and pyramids. El Peten is the most renowned site and Nebaj is a smaller but equally important one. Another significant Mayan site is the Parque Nacional Tikal in the Peten Region. This Unesco World Heritage Site is also an area of outstanding natural beauty.

There are local buses which you could use to get around the country but Guatemala car hire is a better way to travel independently to the various sites. Car hire in Guatemala is available in all major tourist destinations and at airports and train stations.

A two-and-a half-hour drive north-west of Guatemala City will bring you to the city of Quetzaltenango. Here you’ll discover a lively part of the country that offers up some of the most authentic restaurants in Guatemala. It’s also home to Parque Central – a beautiful park at the very centre of urban life. Many travellers come to Quetzaltenango for the natural sulphur springs of Fuentes Georginas and spas of “Xela”, which is how it is affectionately known.

The old capital of Guatemala can be found less than a 40-minute drive west of Guatemala City. Antigua was the country’s hub until 1773 when a massive earthquake almost levelled the city. Thankfully, much of the old Spanish architecture survived and it offers a quaint glimpse into Guatemala’s past.

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