Car Rental in Las Chafiras

Where to drive

• Drive to El Teide National Park: A stunning journey of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, covering about 40-50 km, taking you through dramatic volcanic landscapes to Spain's highest peak.
• Visit Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas: Just a 10-15 minute drive (around 10 km) south, these vibrant resorts offer beautiful beaches, dining, and nightlife.
• Explore the charming village of Vilaflor: Head inland for about 30 minutes (25 km) to Tenerife's highest village, known for its traditional Canarian architecture and pine forests.
• Discover the cliffs of Los Gigantes: A scenic drive of roughly 30-40 minutes (35 km) along the coast will bring you to these spectacular basalt cliffs and a picturesque marina.
• Journey to Santa Cruz de Tenerife: The island's capital is about a 45-minute to an hour's drive (60-70 km) north, offering historical sites, shopping, and cultural experiences.
• Scenic route to Masca Valley: A more challenging but incredibly rewarding drive of approximately 1.5 hours (60 km) through winding mountain roads to one of Tenerife's most breathtaking natural wonders.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Spain, you generally need a valid driving license (held for at least one year), a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. Non-EU citizens may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their national license. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, though some companies may have a higher minimum for certain car classes or require a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Las Chafiras can vary significantly by car class and season. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs or premium vehicles could range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Summer months and major holidays typically see higher demand and prices.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Spain, you drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on conventional roads, and 120 km/h on motorways, unless otherwise indicated. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.03% for new drivers). Headlights must be used in tunnels and in conditions of poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children must use appropriate child seats until they are 135 cm tall or approximately 12 years old.

Parking

In Las Chafiras, finding free parking is generally easier than in larger cities, especially in residential areas or near commercial centers. However, in more popular tourist spots or town centers, you may encounter 'blue zone' (zona azul) parking, which is paid parking with time limits. Look for parking meters or signs indicating payment methods, often via mobile apps. Always check local signage carefully.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Tenerife, including in and around Las Chafiras. Both petrol (gasolina) and diesel (gasóleo) are widely sold. Prices are generally lower than on mainland Spain. Most stations accept major credit and debit cards, though some smaller, rural stations might prefer cash. It's advisable to fill up before long journeys, especially when heading into mountainous regions where stations can be sparse.

Which car to choose

For exploring Tenerife, an economy or compact car is often a good choice for navigating narrow streets in villages and for easier parking. If you plan to tackle more adventurous routes or have more passengers and luggage, a mid-size SUV could offer better comfort and ground clearance for some of the island's winding, hilly roads. Manual transmission cars are very common, but automatics are available, though they may cost slightly more.

Frequently asked questions