Car Rental
Is it safe to drive from the airport to my hotel?
Yes. The route from ZIH to Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo is well-traveled, smooth, and safe, especially during daylight hours.
Car Rental at Ixtapa Airport (ZIH), Mexico
Ixtapa, Mexico's U-Save Car Rental is pleased to have you as a customer. Use this key to uncover this coastal gem's secrets. Prepare to be enthralled by Ixtapa's unrivalled beauty as you travel across its captivating landscapes with the independence and ease of our first-rate vehicle rental services.
Our well kept fleet of cars ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel whether you're relaxing on the gorgeous sands of Playa El Palmar, exploring the verdant Sierra Madre Mountains, or enjoying the catch of the day in the lively fisherman's village of Zihuatanejo. Utilising every opportunity in this tropical paradise, you may explore Ixtapa and its surrounds with complete assurance thanks to U-Save. Don't pass up this opportunity to make priceless memories in Ixtapa.
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Luxury Car
Indulge in opulence and cutting-edge technology with luxury vehicles that redefine elegance and deliver an unparalleled driving experience
Compact
Nimble, fuel-efficient, and perfect for urban life, offering practicality without compromising on style and modern features
Mini Van
Spacious, versatile, and family-friendly, minivans offer comfort and convenience for on-the-go adventures and seamless daily commutes
Standard SUV
Explore the comfort and versatility of standard SUV rentals. Perfect for family trips or any adventure, our reliable SUVs are ready to hit the road
Pickup Truck
Unlock the power of pickup trucks for your hauling tasks. Rent a sturdy pickup truck for versatile cargo transportation. Efficient and dependable
Sprinter
Marrying style with practicality. Great for road trips or business ventures. Spacious, efficient, and highly adaptable. Start your adventure now!
Tips for renting a car at Ixtapa Airport (ZIH)
Before you rent:
Make an informed choice. We believe in providing you with options to choose the right car for your needs with complete price transparency. At U-Save, we prioritize your peace of mind, which means rental insurance with us is not overly complicated and you are assured you are properly insured.
When you collect your Vehicle:
Think ahead. It's a good idea to map out your trip in advance, especially if you're returning the rental car to an unfamiliar location or airport. Check your confirmation email to make sure you know where to meet your agent or where the rental desk, and save the contact details to your phone for quick access.
Bring the necessary documents. While we strive to make the check-in process as simple as possible, some information is required by law. Having your reservation information, driver's license, passport and credit card ready in advance can speed up your reservation process. If you choose to self-insure, make sure that you have verifiable proof of full coverage insurance at the time of rental pickup. If you are a local renter, make sure that you have all the information required by the location to confirm your ID and address.
Conduct a car inspection. Perform a detailed walk around inspection as soon as the vehicle is received to note any existing damage on the rental agreement. The five damage hotspots that we've discovered deserve special attention. You are shielded from responsibility when you return the vehicle by disclosing any existing damage prior to leaving the location.
While you rent:
Take care. Please be advised that depending on the rental coverage you chose, you could be responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. Take measures to reduce the possibility of collisions leading to dings and scratches, especially in congested parking areas.
When you return your vehicle:
Complete one more vehicle inspection. Conduct a second inspection during the return procedure, and no matter how little it may look, carefully record any damage. This approach enables us to handle your refund quickly while making sure you are completely insured. The five damage hotspots should receive special attention, just as they did during the initial assessment.
Drive on the right side of the road
Mexican Peso is the local currency
Average temperatures are 70°F (21°C) - 91°F (33°C)
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH) serves the dual beach resort destinations of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo on Mexico’s Pacific coast, in the state of Guerrero. Located just 15–20 minutes from either town, ZIH is a gateway to relaxation, surfing, seafood, and sun. Ixtapa offers a polished resort experience, while Zihuatanejo maintains a more traditional fishing village charm.
Both areas are easy to explore by car, and a rental vehicle from the airport allows you to combine coastal luxury with authentic inland experiences, visit quiet beaches, and explore Guerrero’s natural beauty far beyond the usual tourist path.
John Carle , Mexico
These people were wonderful. Edmondo was so helpful even though we had some challenges. We were next-door at europcar and they completely ripped us off and took advantage of the lack of cars available. We came to this company and they were helpful in finding us a car at a competitor, because they were completely sold out. The difference between the two companies was night and Day. I will definitely come back here again. So helpful. So nice.
Katya Belykh , Mexico
Best service, best price. Super professional people, everything went smooth, according to my reservation, it took me 20 mins to get the car and 10 mins to return it. Looking forward to renting from them again and would recommend them to everybody.
Bobbie Stivers , Mexico
Not the cheapest but definitely the fastest! I was next door looking at a 2 hour wait. I literally just walked over, picked a car, signed, and drive out in under 5 minutes. Gracias!!
Marisol S , Mexico
Great experience! It was the first time our family was travelling to Cabo San Lucas, but the staff here treated us extremely well, gave us the best price, and even gave us reccomendations on places to eat and shop. They only rent out new, top condition cars. the other people in my party had gone next door to rent their cars and they not only paid a higher price, they also got very old, dirty cars that broke down days later and were charged extra when they returned it (for damage that was already there). the staff at U-Save were very honest and kind, especially Carlos. Would reccomend completely!
Car hire at Ixtapa Airport – Good to know about driving in there
Driving in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo is relatively relaxed compared to larger Mexican cities. Roads from the airport to both towns are well-paved, quiet, and clearly marked, and traffic levels are moderate even in high season. Mexico drives on the right-hand side, and most rental cars at ZIH are automatic, making them easy to handle for international visitors.
As you leave the airport, you’ll notice that the main road, Carretera Zihuatanejo-Aeropuerto, connects directly to the coastal highway that runs between the resort strip in Ixtapa and the traditional harborfront in Zihuatanejo. Within these towns, traffic is light, though some local drivers may disregard stop signs or turn signals. Drive cautiously in mixed-use zones where pedestrians, taxis, cyclists, and delivery scooters all share the road.
The speed limits in this area follow Mexico’s national guidelines — typically 40–60 km/h in town, up to 80 km/h on rural roads, and up to 100 km/h on the main regional highways. Signs are posted in kilometers per hour, and while some locals may speed, tourists should respect all limits, particularly near school zones or pedestrian crossings. Topes (speed bumps) are common, especially when entering small towns, near markets, or close to beach access roads — and many are unmarked, so remain alert.
The coastal highway (MEX-200) is the area’s primary artery and a scenic, breezy drive — perfect for day trips to beaches like Playa Blanca, Barra de Potosí, or La Saladita, a favorite surf spot. Inland routes, though beautiful, can be more rugged. Potholes, sharp curves, and animal crossings are more common the farther you venture into the Sierra Madre del Sur. If you plan to explore beyond the coast, consider renting a higher-clearance SUV.
Night driving is not unsafe within Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo, but extra caution is advised on rural roads after dark due to poor lighting, unexpected speed bumps, and wandering animals. Stick to daytime exploration if heading inland or off the main road.
Parking is generally easy in both towns. Hotels and resorts offer dedicated guest parking. In downtown Zihuatanejo, there are public lots and street parking, often with informal attendants (“viene viene”) who help guide you and expect a small tip. Be sure not to park in front of red-painted curbs, intersections, or “No Estacionar” signs.
FAQs About Driving & Renting a Car at Ixtapa Airport
Can I take my rental car to other towns along the coast?
Yes, regional travel is allowed – including drives to Petatlán, Barra de Potosí, or even Zihuatanejo Norte. Always confirm at pickup if you plan to travel around.
What kind of vehicle should I rent?
A compact or mid-size car is fine for most travelers. For those heading inland or into less developed areas, a small SUV is recommended for comfort and clearance.
Are police checkpoints common?
They are not frequent in this region, but they do exist. Always carry your license, passport copy, and rental agreement when driving.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Ixtapa?
Not unless your license is not in the Roman alphabet. U.S., Canadian, and European licenses are accepted for up to 180 days.
Van rental at Ixtapa Airport – Choose the best option
We have a great collections of high-quality cars and vans. Whether you're looking for mini van, a large sprinter, pickup truck, SUV or even e luxury car – we got you!
Choosing the right rental vehicle depends on your travel needs, whether it’s comfort, space, or terrain capability. SUVs are great for long road trips, offering a mix of comfort and versatility, especially if you're traveling through mixed terrains or unpredictable weather.
Vans are ideal for larger groups or cargo transport, perfect for family trips or business needs. MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) are a practical choice for urban driving with extra passenger space, making them a great middle ground between sedans and vans.
Pickup trucks excel in handling heavy loads and rugged environments, ideal for work or outdoor adventures. If you're tackling off-road trails or harsh conditions, a 4x4 provides the traction and durability needed for a safe and reliable drive. Choosing wisely ensures a smoother and more comfortable journey.
Check our booking system to see which car types are currently available!
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