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Top destinations to rent a car in Chile

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Santiago

Santiago

What you need to know for your Chile car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Chile

Renting a car in Chile is a popular choice for travelers seeking the freedom to explore the country's diverse attractions at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. This flexibility appeals to those interested in outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, or cultural experiences.

For instance, you can drive to the stunning Torres del Paine National Park, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, or visit the historic Palacio de la Moneda and the vibrant Plaza de Armas in Santiago, which are both integral to the local culture. Additionally, cities like San José de Maipo and San Pedro de Atacama offer unique attractions, such as Termas Valle de Colina and the Valley of the Moon, respectively. Having a rental car allows you to conveniently explore these destinations without relying on public transportation. Whether you are looking for scenic landscapes or cultural landmarks, a rental car provides the flexibility and convenience needed for an enjoyable trip through Chile.

Most popular car rentals in Chile

  • Midsize SUV: This car option accommodates 5 travelers comfortably and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. It’s an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups who need a bit more space for luggage while traveling through Chile. The midsize SUV provides a balance of comfort and capacity, making it perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes of the country.
  • Economy: The economy car is a great option for 5 travelers, allowing for up to 2 medium suitcases. This choice is particularly suited for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for an efficient and budget-friendly vehicle. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through urban areas and find parking, while still offering the flexibility to explore Chile at your own pace.
  • Standard SUV: Accommodating 5 travelers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases, the standard SUV is perfect for couples, families, or groups seeking a comfortable ride. It offers a slightly larger interior than the economy option while maintaining ease of handling for various driving conditions in Chile. This vehicle is ideal for those who want a bit more room without sacrificing maneuverability.

Where to stay in Chile

  • Santiago: A vibrant metropolis, Santiago is perfect for those seeking a city-themed, family, or ski experience. Within proximity, you can explore landmarks like the historic Palacio de la Moneda and the lively Plaza de Armas. Enjoy shopping at local centers or try the nearby wineries. The famous Julio Martinez Pradanos National Stadium adds a cultural touch, making Santiago a great base for your adventures in Chile.
  • San Pedro de Atacama: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, San Pedro de Atacama offers breathtaking scenery and adventure experiences. Key attractions include the captivating Valley of the Moon and the cultural Plaza de San Pedro de Atacama. The area is also known for its markets and spas, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring the desert and lakes. Plan your visit to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes.
  • San José de Maipo: For those drawn to ski and adventure sports, San José de Maipo is an excellent choice. Nestled near mountains and lakes, this city features activities centered around skiing and outdoor recreation. Don’t miss the relaxing Termas Valle de Colina hot springs for wellness. The historic Julio Martinez Pradanos National Stadium and the local San Jose de Maipo Square offer cultural highlights, making it a well-rounded destination.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Chile

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you are more likely to find lower rates and enjoy a greater selection, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—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 prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is usually the most favorable option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in that situation.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the additional cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's easy to add rental car insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Chile

The best value period to rent a car in Chile is June, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. This month offers great opportunities for budget-conscious travelers. The months of May and July also present decent options with average prices and demand. In contrast, February tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. January and December follow closely behind, as they usually see higher demand and rental costs.

Find Chile Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Chile car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Chile, 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 Chile offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Chile 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 Chile 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 Chile 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 Chile rental cars pick up locations

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

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Chile?
The most affordable car rentals in Chile are typically the smaller classes, such as economy and compact cars, which are efficient for navigating cities and offer good fuel economy. You'll find these options widely available in major cities like Santiago and Vina del Mar, from reputable suppliers such as Avis and Budget. Rates for car rental in Chile vary by city, specific pickup location, and the time of year you plan to travel, so it's always a good idea to compare a few cities and dates on Expedia to find great value for your trip.
What are the best car rentals in Chile?
Car rentals across Chile come in a full range of vehicle types from providers like Avis, Budget, and Sixt, broadly available in major cities such as Santiago, Vina del Mar, and La Serena. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize elite crossover
  • Standard SUV
  • Fullsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard elite SUV
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or covering longer distances between regions. The same classes are broadly available across the country's major cities, ensuring you can find the right fit for your travel needs.

What are the best car rental companies in Chile?
For car rentals across Chile, well-rated providers like Avis, Budget, and Sixt offer a strong mix of vehicles with wide availability in major cities such as Santiago, Vina del Mar, and La Serena. These companies provide reliable options for various travel needs, from compact cars for city exploration to larger SUVs for road trips. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find the right vehicle and deal for your trip.
Can I rent a car one-way in Chile?
Yes, one-way car rentals are a great way to see Chile, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in one city and drop it off in another, which is ideal for a cross-country road trip. For example, you could pick up in Santiago and drop off in Vina del Mar. Providers like Avis and Budget offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee usually applies and can be higher over longer distances, so confirm any associated fees when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Chile?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Chile, including in major cities like Santiago and Vina del Mar. Companies such as Avis and Budget offer hybrid options, providing a more environmentally friendly way to explore the region. Opting for an EV or hybrid can help keep fuel costs low, and charging infrastructure is becoming more accessible along major routes. It's advisable to book a few weeks ahead as demand for these vehicles can be high, and plan your charging stops for longer drives between cities.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Chile?
For luxury car rentals across Chile, providers like Avis, Budget, and Sixt offer premium categories, providing high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for touring the country in style. You'll find options such as midsize elite crossovers and fullsize SUVs available in major cities like Santiago and Vina del Mar. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare before you book, ensuring you find the perfect vehicle for an elevated travel experience.
What are the best car rentals in Chile for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Chile, SUVs and minivans give you ample room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage. These larger vehicles are available across major cities from Santiago to Vina del Mar:
  • Avis: standard SUV — seats up to 5 with room for 4 large suitcases
  • Budget: fullsize SUV — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
  • Avis: mini passenger van — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
These options keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips between regions. It's wise to book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods.

Which airports in Chile can I pick up a rental car?
Chile has several airports with car rental pick-up options, allowing you to start your journey conveniently close to your arrival point:
  • Santiago De Chile Airport (SCL)
  • La Florida Airport (LSC) in La Serena
Choosing the airport nearest your starting city will keep things convenient for your trip. You can compare rental rates across different airports on Expedia to find a great option for your travel plans.

What are the best road trips in Chile by rental car?
With a rental car, Chile opens up for multi-stop road trips between its major cities and regions:
  • Santiago to Vina del Mar: This classic route offers a blend of urban exploration and coastal beauty, perfect for a shorter getaway.
  • Santiago to La Serena: A longer journey north, ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes and cultural sites of northern Chile.
  • Vina del Mar to La Serena: Enjoy a scenic coastal drive, connecting two popular destinations with plenty of stops along the way.
A one-way rental works well for point-to-point routes so you don't have to double back. Compare pickup cities and one-way options on Expedia to plan your ideal Chilean road trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Chile?
In Chile, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the country's cities and the roads between them. 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.
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 Chile?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Chile. 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 Chile?
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 Chile?
Budget car rental in Chile 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 Chile?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Chile. 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 Chile car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Chile?
To rent a car in Chile, 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 Chile car rental?
If you need to cancel your Chile 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