Car Hire at Loreto International Airport (LTO)

Your home driving licence is technically valid in Mexico, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended—particularly outside tourist zones. Hire companies often request the IDP alongside your national licence, and police checkpoints may ask to see both. The IDP costs around £15-20 and is valid for one year. If your licence isn't in Spanish, the IDP serves as an official translation.

Yes, Mexican liability insurance is legally required—your UK or European policy will NOT be valid in Mexico, even with an IDP. Basic third-party cover from Mexican providers typically costs £8-15 per day. Full coverage (comprehensive + theft) adds roughly £15-25 daily. Never decline coverage: medical costs and vehicle damage in Mexico can be catastrophic without it. Credit card insurance is rarely accepted here.

Petrol (Magna/Premium) is dispensed at state-owned PEMEX stations—cash only at most locations, though some accept cards. Ensure you have Pesos; UK cards frequently get declined. Toll roads (Autopista) accept cash or the TAG electronic pass, but many rural routes around Loreto are libre (free) roads with gravel or uneven surfaces. Budget extra travel time if venturing to Sierra de la Laguna—some roads require 4WD.

The minimum age is typically 21 years old, though some agencies set it at 25 for full coverage policies. Drivers aged 21-24 pay a young driver surcharge of approximately £12-18 per day on top of the rental rate. Drivers under 21 generally cannot rent. If you're over 70, check with the agency—some apply senior driver fees or restrictions.

Summer (June-August) brings extreme heat exceeding 40°C—check tyre pressure and coolant levels before long drives; never leave pets or valuables in parked cars. July-September is monsoon season: flash flooding can make dirt roads impassable and visibilty drops dramatically. September-November,_rural roads become muddy and some coastal tracks close entirely. Always carry extra water (minimum 3 litres per person) and inform someone of your route when exploring remote areas.