South America Car Rentals

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

Top destinations to rent a car in South America

A cable car system, a cityscape, and mountains in the background.
CarsCars

Medellín

Medellín

What you need to know for your South America car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in South America

Renting a car in South America gives you the freedom to explore this diverse continent at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, allowing you to visit key attractions without the constraints of public transportation. For example, you can drive to Paulista Avenue in Brazil, a fantastic street for city experiences, or head to the Interlagos Race Track for an exciting sports adventure. If you prefer relaxing by the water, Copacabana Beach is another must-visit destination in Brazil. Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore popular destinations in Colombia, such as Hacienda Nápoles Theme Park, 93 Park, and Lleras Park, or venture into Argentina to see iconic locations like the Obelisco and Palermo Soho. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a beach lover, or someone who enjoys city experiences, renting a car provides the convenience to tailor your trip according to your interests. Enjoy the flexibility and comfort of traveling through South America with your own vehicle, making your sightseeing experience truly memorable.

Most popular car rentals in South America

  • Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice among travelers in South America, accommodating up to 5 people with space for 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the diverse attractions of the continent. The additional space provides comfort during longer journeys, allowing everyone to travel with their luggage without feeling cramped.
  • Economy: The Economy car option is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 people with 2 medium suitcases. It offers a balance of affordability and practicality, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget who still want the freedom to explore South America. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate city streets and find parking, enhancing your travel experience.
  • Standard: The Standard car option is another great choice for travelers in South America. With room for 5 passengers and up to 3 large suitcases, it caters well to couples and families looking for a comfortable ride. This vehicle provides ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it well-suited for longer road trips where comfort is a priority. Enjoy the flexibility of your travel plans while having enough room for everyone and their belongings.

Where to stay in South America

  • Brazil: For a vibrant stay, consider areas near Copacabana Beach, famous for its stunning shoreline and lively atmosphere. It's a hub for beach activities and offers nearby dining options, perfect for enjoying local cuisine. For those interested in urban experiences, staying near Paulista Avenue provides access to a bustling city life filled with shopping, dining, and cultural events. If you're seeking adventure, the Interlagos Race Track is suitable for sports enthusiasts.
  • Colombia: In Colombia, neighborhoods surrounding 93 Park are ideal for families and city lovers alike. This urban park offers recreational areas and is close to shopping centers for those looking to indulge in retail therapy. Additionally, the vicinity of Hacienda Nápoles Theme Park provides a fun-filled environment suitable for family outings. The area is also well-equipped with restaurants and cafes for a delightful dining experience.
  • Argentina: In Argentina, staying near Palermo Soho is perfect for travelers who enjoy vibrant city life and cultural experiences. This neighborhood is known for its charming streets filled with shops, cafes, and a lively atmosphere. Close to the Civic Center Bariloche, guests can appreciate the historic significance of this area. The Obelisco, a prominent monument, is also nearby for those interested in exploring cultural landmarks and enjoying local dining options.

10 tips to save on your car rental in South America

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economical car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to book your car well ahead of your trip. By reserving in advance, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, 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 premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you'll need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the extra convenience may justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for transactions.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra fees.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in South America

The best value period to rent a car in South America is September, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. Nearby months like May also offer slightly lower prices and quieter demand. March and April are generally average, providing a balance of cost and availability. However, December stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand due to holiday travelers. January and February also tend to be pricier and busier, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Find South America Car Rentals

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

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

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent a car in South America?
Yes, car rentals are widely available across South America, though you book them by country or city rather than for the continent as a whole. Popular places to start include São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Cartagena, where major suppliers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car operate. Pick the country or city you're visiting and compare rates and pickup points on Expedia.
What types of car rentals are available in South America?
Across South America, you'll find a full range of rental vehicle types, with exact availability depending on the country and city. You can typically find:
  • Economy and compact cars, ideal for city driving
  • Midsize and standard sedans for comfortable travel
  • SUVs for varied terrain or larger groups
  • Fullsize, premium, and luxury options for enhanced comfort
Choose based on your group size and trip, then pick a destination like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro to see live availability on Expedia.

How do I book a car rental in South America?
To book a car rental in South America, start by choosing the country or city you're visiting – for example, São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. Then, enter your desired pickup and drop-off points and travel dates. Compare suppliers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car and different pickup locations on Expedia to find the right car for your trip.
What are the best places to explore in South America by rental car?
Some of the best places in South America to explore by rental car include:
  • São Paulo – a vibrant city that serves as a great starting point for exploring the surrounding region.
  • Rio de Janeiro – offers stunning coastal drives and access to beautiful natural parks.
  • Cartagena – ideal for exploring the historic city and nearby Caribbean coastlines.
A rental car provides the freedom to discover these diverse landscapes at your own pace. Once you've picked a specific destination, compare car rentals there on Expedia.

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 South America?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in South America. 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 South America?
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 South America?
Budget car rental in South America 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 South America?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in South America. 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 South America car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in South America?
To rent a car in South America, 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 South America car rental?
If you need to cancel your South America 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