Car Rental in Punta Arenas

Where to drive

• Drive to Puerto Natales (≈ 250 km, 3 hours) and then onwards to the breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park, a world-renowned hiking destination.
• Explore the historic Estancia Fitz Roy (≈ 100 km north, 1.5 hours) for a glimpse into traditional Patagonian sheep farming and stunning coastal views.
• Head south to Fort Bulnes (≈ 60 km, 1 hour), the first Chilean settlement in the Strait of Magellan, offering historical insight and scenic overlooks.
• Take a ferry from Punta Arenas to Porvenir on Tierra del Fuego (ferry crossing ≈ 2.5 hours, plus driving) to visit King Penguin Park, home to a colony of magnificent King Penguins.
• Discover the scenic Route 9 north towards Río Gallegos, Argentina, crossing the border for an international Patagonian road trip (border crossing times vary).

What documents you need

To rent a car in Chile, you typically need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport, and a major credit card for the security deposit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, and often required by rental agencies, especially if your license is not in Spanish or English. The minimum driving age is generally 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 25 or older for certain car categories or an additional young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Punta Arenas generally start from around 40 USD per day for economy models during the low season. Mid-range sedans typically cost between 60-90 USD, while SUVs, essential for some Patagonian roads, can range from 90-150 USD per day. Prices are significantly higher during the peak summer months (December-February) and tend to be lower during the colder winter period.

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, though these can vary and are always signposted. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 12 or shorter than 135 cm must use appropriate child safety seats. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, approximately 0.03% BAC, with severe penalties for exceeding it.

Parking

In Punta Arenas, street parking in the city center is generally paid during business hours on weekdays, often through parking meters or attendants. Free parking can be found further from the center or in designated areas, but spaces may be limited. Always check signage carefully. Many hotels offer private parking for guests.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in Punta Arenas and along major routes. However, when venturing into remote areas like towards Torres del Paine, it's wise to fill up whenever possible as stations can be sparse. Fuel is sold by the liter, and prices are comparable to international standards, paid in Chilean Pesos (CLP) with cash or credit card. Diesel (petróleo) is also widely available.

Which car to choose

For exploring Punta Arenas and its immediate surroundings, an economy or compact car is sufficient. However, for venturing into more rugged Patagonian terrain, particularly towards national parks like Torres del Paine which may involve gravel roads, a 4x4 or a higher-clearance SUV is highly recommended. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatics are available, though often at a higher price.

Frequently asked questions