Car Rental in San Carlos de Bariloche

Where to drive

• Circuito Chico: A classic scenic drive around Bariloche, covering ≈60 km (1.5-2 hours driving) with stunning viewpoints, breweries, and Llao Llao Hotel.
• Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Seven Lakes Route): Drive north towards San Martín de los Andes, a magnificent ≈110 km (2-3 hours one-way) journey through a series of turquoise lakes and forests.
• El Bolsón: Head south for ≈120 km (1.5-2 hours driving) to this bohemian town known for its artisan market and organic produce, with opportunities for hiking and rafting nearby.
• Villa La Angostura: Located ≈80 km (1 hour driving) north, this picturesque village offers beautiful lake views, charming architecture, and access to Arrayanes National Park.
• Cerro Tronador and Ventisquero Negro: An adventurous day trip of ≈90 km (2-3 hours one-way, part gravel road) to see a towering glacier and the 'Black Ventisquero' within Nahuel Huapi National Park.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Argentina, you typically need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport, and a credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, and sometimes required, especially if your national license is not in Spanish or English. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, with some companies requiring drivers under 25 to pay a young driver surcharge. A minimum of one year of driving experience is generally required.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Bariloche vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around $40-60 USD per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles can range from $80-150 USD or more daily. Prices can double or even triple during peak summer (January-February) and winter (July-August) months, with the lowest rates typically found in shoulder seasons like May-June or September-October.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Argentina, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally ≈40-60 km/h in urban areas, ≈80-100 km/h on rural roads, and ≈110-130 km/h on highways, but always follow posted signs. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/L, but some provinces (including Río Negro where Bariloche is) have a zero-tolerance policy, so it's safest not to drink and drive at all. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day, on highways and rural routes. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child safety seats are required for children under 10 or shorter than 1.5 meters.

Parking

In central Bariloche, parking is often paid, especially in high-traffic areas. You'll typically find designated parking zones where you purchase parking time via meters, mobile apps, or kiosks. Outside the very center and in residential areas, free street parking might be available but can be limited. Always look for signs indicating parking restrictions. Parking at major tourist attractions outside the city often has dedicated, sometimes paid, lots.

Fuel stations

Fuel (nafta) is widely available in Bariloche and along major routes. There are two main types: 'Súper' (regular gasoline) and 'Premium' (higher octane). Diesel (gasoil) is also available. Prices are government-regulated but can vary slightly by region and station; expect to pay an approximate average of $0.90 - $1.20 USD per liter, though this fluctuates. Most stations accept cash and credit cards, but it's always wise to have some local currency (Argentine Pesos) as a backup, especially in more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For driving around Bariloche and the paved sections of the Circuito Chico or Seven Lakes Route, a compact or mid-size car is generally sufficient. However, if you plan to venture onto unpaved roads (like parts of the route to Cerro Tronador or some remote hiking trailheads), or if you're traveling during winter with potential snow and ice, an SUV with higher ground clearance and 4x4 capability is highly recommended. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatics are available, though often at a higher price and with less availability.

Frequently asked questions