Car Rental in El Calafate

Where to drive

• Perito Moreno Glacier: Drive approximately 80 km (1.5-hour drive) to Los Glaciares National Park, one of the most accessible and impressive glaciers in the world.
• El Chaltén and Mount Fitz Roy: Take a scenic 215 km (3-hour drive) north to the trekking capital of Argentina, offering breathtaking views and numerous hiking opportunities.
• La Leona Petrified Forest: Explore a unique paleontological site about 100 km (1.5-hour drive) east, featuring ancient petrified trees and fossil remains.
• Estancia Cristina: While requiring a boat trip, driving to Puerto Bandera (50 km, 1-hour drive) first allows for independent travel to the departure point for this historical estancia and Upsala Glacier tour.
• Lago Roca and Glaciar Sur: A shorter 50 km (1-hour drive) south offers tranquil lake views, picnic spots, and a different perspective of Los Glaciares National Park.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Argentina, you'll typically need a valid passport, a driver's license from your home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). While some rental agencies might accept just a foreign license for short stays, an IDP is highly recommended and often required by law. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 25 or older, or imposing a young driver's surcharge for those under 25. Drivers should also have at least one year of driving experience.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in El Calafate vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from approximately 60-80 USD per day in the low season, while SUVs or more comfortable vehicles can range from 100-150 USD or more daily. Peak season, especially during summer (December-February), sees prices rise by 30-50% or even higher due to high demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Argentina, general speed limits are approximately 40-60 km/h in urban areas, 80-110 km/h on rural roads, and up to 130 km/h on highways. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.5 grams per liter, but a zero-tolerance policy is enforced in some provinces. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day, on all interurban routes. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children up to age 10 must travel in an approved child seat appropriate for their size and weight, in the back seat.

Parking

In El Calafate, parking is generally straightforward. Most areas in the town center have paid parking zones during business hours, managed by parking meters or attendants. Outside the very center, and in most residential areas, street parking is usually free. Always look for signs indicating parking restrictions or payment requirements.

Fuel stations

Fuel (nafta) is widely available in El Calafate and along major routes. There are usually two types: Super (95-97 RON) and Premium (98+ RON). Prices are significantly lower than in many European countries or the US, but can fluctuate. As of 2026, expect to pay approximately 0.80 - 1.20 USD per liter. Most service stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some Argentine pesos cash for smaller purchases or in case of card reader issues, especially in more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For most of the well-maintained routes around El Calafate, a compact or economy car is sufficient. However, if you plan to venture onto unpaved roads, such as those leading to some estancias or more remote viewpoints, a higher-clearance vehicle or a 4x4 SUV is highly recommended. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatic options are available, though often at a higher price. Consider an SUV for comfort and capability on varied Patagonian terrain.

Frequently asked questions