Car Rental in Buenos Aires

Where to drive

• Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay (via ferry): While not a drive, a car allows you to explore the charming Uruguayan town after taking a short ferry ride from Buenos Aires. This is a popular day trip.
• Tigre Delta: Just a 30-45 minute drive (around 30 km) north of Buenos Aires, the Tigre Delta offers a unique landscape of rivers and islands, perfect for boat trips and exploring riverside markets.
• San Antonio de Areco: A 1.5 to 2-hour drive (around 120 km) northwest will take you to this traditional gaucho town, offering an authentic taste of Argentine cowboy culture and history.
• La Plata: Approximately an hour's drive (around 60 km) southeast, La Plata is known for its unique urban planning, impressive cathedral, and natural science museum.
• Mar del Plata: For a longer trip, drive about 4-5 hours (around 400 km) south to Mar del Plata, a popular coastal city known for its beaches and lively atmosphere, especially during the summer months.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Argentina, you typically need a valid driver's license from your home country, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and your passport. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some requiring a minimum of one to two years of driving experience. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Buenos Aires vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 USD per day during off-peak times, while SUVs or premium vehicles can range from 60-100+ USD daily. Prices tend to be higher during the peak summer months (December-February) and around major holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Argentina, traffic drives on the right. Speed limits are generally 40-60 km/h in urban areas, 80-110 km/h on rural roads, and up to 130 km/h on highways, but always check local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is usually 0.5 g/L for private vehicles, but some provinces, like Córdoba or Mendoza, have a zero-tolerance policy. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day, on highways and interurban routes. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child safety seats are required for children up to a certain age or height, typically up to 10 years old.

Parking

Parking in central Buenos Aires can be challenging and expensive. Street parking often requires payment via meters or apps, and rules can be complex with varying hours and restrictions. It's often easier and safer to use paid parking garages (estacionamientos or cocheras), especially overnight. Outside the central areas, street parking might be more available and sometimes free, but always be mindful of signs and local regulations.

Fuel stations

Fuel (nafta) is widely available throughout Argentina. There are two main types: Super (95 octane) and Premium (98 octane). Diesel (gasoil) is also common. Prices are generally lower than in many European countries or the US, but can fluctuate. Payment is typically made in Argentine Pesos (ARS), though some larger stations might accept credit cards, it's always wise to have cash as a backup.

Which car to choose

For driving within Buenos Aires and short trips to nearby areas like Tigre or San Antonio de Areco, an economy or compact car is perfectly suitable. Their smaller size makes navigating city traffic and finding parking easier. If you plan to venture further, especially into rural areas with potentially unpaved roads, a mid-size sedan or even an SUV with higher ground clearance might be more comfortable. Automatic transmissions are available but manual cars are more common and often cheaper.

Frequently asked questions