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14 years ago

Car for a Year

14 years ago
In June, I will be moving to Guatemala from Texas for ten months to work on community health projects around the Lake Atitlan region. I really want to take my 2000 GMC Yukon for the road trip experience, the freedom to travel, and the flexibility it would allow me during my stay. After educating myself on the documentation required, though, I'm not sure I can make it work.

Traveling through Mexico and Central America seems easy enough, but having a car in Guatemala long term is looking like a headache. From what I've read, temporary vehicle permits into Guatemala only last 30 days (even though temporary tourist visas last 90). Importing the car is out of the question as import taxes appear to be over 20% of the car's worth. Buying a junker in Guatemala is an option, but then I have to worry about repair and selling the car.

What do you guys think? Should I skip the car and just hoof it on buses? Drive out of the country once a month? Buy a used car in Guatemala? Does an extended temporary vehicle permit exist? Let me know if you think I can make this work.

Stephen

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Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Contribute to Guatemala Network Contribute
Help others in Guatemala by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Guatemala.

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