Oaxaca Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Oaxaca

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Oaxaca

Oaxaca

What you need to know for your Oaxaca car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Oaxaca

Renting a car in Oaxaca offers the freedom to explore this beautiful state at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting various attractions and enjoy flexible travel plans. This option is especially appealing for those interested in beach, outdoor, and adventure experiences. Key attractions such as the Zócalo, a vibrant city square, and the historic Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán can be visited conveniently. A short drive can take you to stunning locations like Mazunte Beach, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. Additionally, renting a car allows you to explore notable destinations like Santa María Huatulco, featuring beautiful beaches such as Tangolunda Beach and Playa Santa Cruz, as well as Puerto Escondido, known for its scenic Punta Zicatela and Carrizalillo Beach. The convenience of a rental car makes it easier to enjoy the rich culture and natural beauty of Oaxaca, ensuring that you can make the most of your trip while experiencing all that this remarkable state has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Oaxaca

  • Midsize: This car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples or families. Renting a midsize vehicle in Oaxaca allows you to enjoy a comfortable ride while having ample storage for luggage, which is perfect for your exploration adventures at your own pace.
  • Economy: The economy car type is suitable for up to 5 travelers, with room for 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for a budget-friendly choice that still provides enough space for your essentials. An economy car in Oaxaca enables you to navigate the area efficiently while keeping costs lower.
  • Standard: With a capacity for 5 travelers and space for up to 3 large suitcases, the standard car is an excellent choice for couples or families. This option combines comfort and practicality, allowing you to manage your luggage easily while enjoying the flexibility to explore Oaxaca's attractions at your leisure.

Where to stay in Oaxaca

  • Oaxaca: Nestled in the heart of the city, Oaxaca is ideal for culture enthusiasts and families seeking a vibrant experience. Stay close to the iconic Zócalo, a lively piazza square perfect for immersing yourself in local culture. The stunning Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the historic Oaxaca Cathedral are also within easy reach, providing a rich cultural backdrop to your visit. With numerous dining options nearby, you can savor delicious local cuisine while enjoying the city's artistic vibe.
  • Santa María Huatulco: For those drawn to outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, Santa María Huatulco offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. Known for its beautiful beaches such as Tangolunda Beach and Playa Santa Cruz, this area is perfect for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. The local restaurants and cafes provide a variety of delectable dining options, making it a great spot for those looking to unwind and enjoy the coastal charm of Oaxaca.
  • Puerto Escondido: Puerto Escondido is a charming village that caters to adventure seekers and beach lovers alike. With pristine beaches like Punta Zicatela and Carrizalillo Beach, visitors can indulge in various recreational activities, including underwater sports. The marina and surrounding areas offer additional opportunities for exploration. Enjoy the vibrant local dining scene, which complements the village's laid-back atmosphere, making it a fantastic choice for travelers looking for both excitement and relaxation.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Oaxaca

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to find lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental price and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Other policies might include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable—just ensure that you return the car empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in Oaxaca

The best time to rent a car in Oaxaca is September, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. Nearby months like February and October also offer slightly low pricing and moderate demand, making them good alternatives if you're looking to save. March through July tends to see average demand and pricing, while December is the most expensive month with high demand. November also shows slightly high prices with steady demand.

Find Oaxaca Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Oaxaca car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Oaxaca, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Oaxaca offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Oaxaca car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Oaxaca to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Oaxaca airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Oaxaca rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Oaxaca airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Oaxaca?
You can find cheap car rentals in Oaxaca from $10 a day with Payless's midsize 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Oaxaca are picked up at the region's main gateway, Ciudad De Mexico (MEX). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido. Suppliers such as Avis, Europcar, and Sixt operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Oaxaca.
What are the best car rentals in Oaxaca?
Car rentals across Oaxaca offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Europcar, Sixt, and Avis, broadly available in the region's main cities — Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, and Santa María Huatulco. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize 4-5 door
  • Standard 4-5 door
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Mini 4-5 door
  • Compact 4-5 door
These options cater to various traveler needs, whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family. The same classes are generally available across the region's cities. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Oaxaca.

What are the best car rental companies in Oaxaca?
For car rentals across Oaxaca, well-rated providers like Avis, Europcar, and Sixt offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, and Santa María Huatulco. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Ciudad De Mexico (MEX) for exploring Oaxaca?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Ciudad De Mexico (MEX) for exploring Oaxaca. Providers including Avis, Europcar, and Sixt operate at the airport, with rates from around $10 a day. MEX is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido.
Can I rent a car one-way in Oaxaca?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Oaxaca — pick up in one city, such as Oaxaca, and drop-off in another, like Puerto Escondido, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $10 a day. Providers like Avis and Europcar offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Oaxaca?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Oaxaca, including in Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido. Avis offers electric options from $10 a day and hybrid options from $10 a day. Europcar and Sixt also provide hybrid vehicles, with rates starting from $21 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is becoming more available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand can be high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Oaxaca?
For luxury car rentals across Oaxaca, Avis offers premium 2 or 4 door cars from $11 a day (and premium elite SUVs from $26 a day), while Advantage Rent-A-Car adds premium SUVs from $23 a day — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Oaxaca.
What are the best car rentals in Oaxaca for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Oaxaca, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido:
  • Advantage Rent-A-Car: midsize SUV from $11 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Avis: fullsize SUV from $18 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: mini passenger van from $37 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Oaxaca.

What are the best car rentals in Oaxaca for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Oaxaca for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and efficient to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido:
  • Economy car, from $11 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $13 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Oaxaca.

What are the best car rentals in Oaxaca for couples?
The best car rentals in Oaxaca for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido:
  • Midsize car, from $11 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $10 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Oaxaca.

What are the closest airports to Oaxaca for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Oaxaca offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Ciudad De Mexico (MEX)
  • Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) serving Oaxaca
  • Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) serving Puerto Escondido
  • Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX) serving Santa María Huatulco
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Oaxaca?
In Oaxaca, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. This applies across the region, including in cities like Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Oaxaca?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Oaxaca. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Oaxaca?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Oaxaca?
Budget car rental in Oaxaca can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Oaxaca?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Oaxaca. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Oaxaca car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Oaxaca?
To rent a car in Oaxaca, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Oaxaca car rental?
If you need to cancel your Oaxaca car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation