Car Rental in La Serena

Where to drive

• Drive to the Elqui Valley: Head east on Route 41 to Vicuña (approx. 60 km, 1 hour) to explore pisco distilleries, artisan shops, and astronomical centers like Mamalluca.
• Visit Punta de Choros and Isla Damas: Drive north on Route 5 (approx. 120 km, 1.5-2 hours) for marine wildlife tours to see Humboldt penguins and dolphins.
• Explore Fray Jorge National Park: Take Route 5 south then Route 35 (approx. 90 km, 1.5 hours) to witness a unique relict Valdivian temperate rainforest in a semi-arid zone.
• Coastal Scenic Route to Coquimbo: A short drive south (approx. 10 km, 20 minutes) along the scenic coastal road connecting La Serena with its sister city, Coquimbo, offering great ocean views and fresh seafood.
• Observatorio Cerro Tololo: Drive inland on Route 41 (approx. 80 km, 1.5 hours) to one of the world's premier astronomical research sites (check visitation requirements in advance).

What documents you need

To rent a car in Chile, you typically need a valid passport, a driver's license from your home country, and often an International Driving Permit (IDP). While some agencies might not strictly require an IDP, it is highly recommended and legally required for non-resident drivers. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 and have held a license for at least 1-2 years. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in La Serena vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 25-35 USD per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from 60-100+ USD daily. Prices generally surge by 30-50% during the peak summer months (December to February) and around major holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Chile, you drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways, unless otherwise posted. Headlights must be on at all times on interurban roads, even during the day. The legal blood alcohol limit is very low (0.03%), with zero tolerance for new drivers. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 12 must use appropriate child safety seats in the rear of the vehicle.

Parking

In central La Serena, parking is often paid, especially during business hours and peak tourist season. You'll find designated street parking zones where you pay attendants or use parking meters. Look for signs indicating 'Estacionamiento Pagado'. Free parking can be found further from the city center or at certain accommodations. In Coquimbo, similar rules apply, and large shopping centers usually offer free parking.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in La Serena and along major routes like Route 5 and Route 41. Prices are comparable to international standards, currently around 1.30-1.50 USD per liter for gasoline (bencina). Diesel (diésel) is also available. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's wise to carry some Chilean pesos for smaller purchases or in case of card reader issues.

Which car to choose

For exploring La Serena and its immediate surroundings, an economy or compact car is perfectly adequate. If you plan to venture into the Elqui Valley's unpaved side roads, visit more remote beaches, or tackle mountain passes, a vehicle with higher clearance, like an SUV or 4x4, would be more comfortable and capable. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatics are widely available, especially in larger car classes.

Frequently asked questions