Chile is among the longest north-to-south countries on the planet, so there is plenty to discover. With 6000 km of Pacific coastline, one of the driest deserts on the earth, and some of the most iconic national parks that make Patagonia world famous, it is no wonder many venture to Chile to discover the region on their own four wheels.
It goes without saying that Chile is quite an expensive country; in fact, it is only surpassed by Brazil and Uruguay. One of the best ways to save money is to rent a car in Chile, which will allow you to explore the nooks and crannies of this incredibly diverse South American country, but you are probably wondering where to begin.
From the various rental agencies to the choice of routes to undertake, the choice to travel to Chile by car can feel a little daunting, so in this article, I will give you some valuable tips, tricks, and advice to help make the planning easier.
Chile is a country that appeals to everyone, whether you are a seasoned hiker, an enthusiastic photographer, a wine lover, or someone intrigued by unique landscapes. There are many reasons to rent a car in Chile to see everything you can in the time you have, so stick around for some important information that will help you on your journey.
Let’s dive in!
Where to Book a Rental Car in Chile

Chile is a haven for those who want to rent a car and explore, so you may have already noticed plenty of choices, which can seem overwhelming. While you can easily spend time sifting through the various promotions and offers and reading the terms and conditions of each company policy, one of the best ways to secure your car rental in Chile is to use Discover Cars.
Just like Booking.com helps you to sift through the details of each hotel in your desired destination, so does Discover Cars, which will save you a lot of valuable time, which you could use to plan your trip. All you need to do is search for your dates, pickup point, and preferred car type, and you will be met with the best deals for car rentals in Chile. From here, you can secure your booking and add anything extra once you arrive to collect your rental. It’s as easy as that!
One thing to point out is that it is advised to opt for Full Coverage Insurance with Discover Cars, which will allow you to have a worry-free road trip through Chile. If you are wondering what Discover Cars covers, you will have unlimited mileage, CDW ($405 deductible), road tax, E Toll pass, device, theft protection, and third-party insurance.
What is not included are any additional drivers, extras like baby seats or GPS systems, or full coverage insurance, so always check terms and conditions when booking.
Requirements for renting a car in Chile

- Drivers must be a minimum age of 21; a young driver’s fee is not applied.
- There is no maximum age or senior fee.
- Drivers must have a valid passport, credit card, and valid driving license for at least one year.
- An international driving license is not needed if the original license is written in the Roman Alphabet; otherwise, if it is required, it must accompany the driving license.
- Your credit card may provide insurance coverage, so always check this in advance and bring the relevant documentation with you when picking up the car.
Do I need car rental Insurance for Chile?
When it comes to car insurance in Chile, it is required by law to have basic rental insurance, which most companies will provide. It is always best to opt for complete coverage to ensure full protection when traveling around the country, especially if this is your first time driving in South America; it can reassure you on your road trip.
Regarding travel insurance, it is not mandatory to visit Chile, but it is well worth having travel insurance since private medical care in Chile is quite expensive.
Reasons to rent a car in Chile
As mentioned, there are many reasons to rent a car in Chile, so let’s examine the main ones.
Freedom & Flexibility
Having the freedom and flexibility to explore all corners of Chile without relying on buses or expensive taxis and tours is priceless. Many parts of Chile are not frequented by public transport, making it hard to explore some of the most beautiful parts of the country without your car.
You will notice that many people rent their car or motor home when traveling Chile since it is the best way to get around, and if you only have a short time, you won’t want to waste your time waiting on buses or going on tours which skip the best parts of the country.

It’s More Affordable
When searching for a rental car in Chile, you will notice that the cost to rent a vehicle is not as expensive as you might have assumed, yet the price of tours and even long-distance buses is much more costly in comparison. By renting a car in Chile, you will have unlimited kilometers to explore at your leisure while only paying for the fuel, which is a fantastic way to save money and visit the country.
It’s Necessary
If you didn’t already know, Chile is expansive, lengthwise anyway. There are many regions where public transport is exceptionally scarce; these are the are as you will not want to miss out on when visiting the country.
If you have considered getting around Chile by bus, you might have noticed that places you have on your bucket list are not easy to get to by public transport, which is why many people opt for expensive tours. An alternative is renting your car, which will not keep you from seeing the most rural places without fearing being stranded.
It’s Safe

One of the main reasons why renting a car in Chile is a great idea is because it is safe. If you plan to drive in South America for the first time, you may hesitate to rent a car and go off the beaten path, but Chile is an excellent country. Apart from some unsafe neighborhoods around Santiago de Chile, the rest of the country is relatively safe compared to neighboring countries.
Regarding driving capabilities, Chile is a much safer option than Peru or Bolivia. Getting off the beaten path to explore rural Patagonia or the Atacama Desert is safe and easy to do with a rental car, and you will find that you are not the only one doing it.
It’s a Bucket List Adventure
Let’s face it: telling your friends and family you have embarked on a Chilean road trip is rather exciting. But honestly, hitting the open road in any foreign country is exhilarating. Many of us only dream of exploring a country in our vehicle, and this is a great chance to tick this adventure off your bucket list while saving money and enjoying the freedom of it all.
If your bucket list includes driving to places like Torres del Paine National Park or star gazing in San Pedro de Atacama Desert, you can rest assured that your rental car can help you tick those experiences off your list.

Things to Know for Driving in Chile
Road Quality
Overall, Chile’s roads are in excellent condition, that is, until you go off the beaten path. It is wise to plan your route carefully, decide which vehicle you may need, and choose wisely.
For instance, if you plan to drive the famous Carretera Austral, as we did, you should know that it is considered one of Chile’s most challenging routes, with potholes, sharp turns, tough gravel, and even sandy sections. However, the views are incredible.
This road and many other gravel sections in Chile are only suitable for 4×4 cars, and rental companies will not allow you to take their vehicles off the road unless they are 4×4. So always check your route and rent the appropriate car for the journey.

Toll Roads
As part of your rental with Discover Cars, you will receive an EToll device, which is necessary for driving in Chile. This also means that you won’t need to stop at each toll booth to pay; instead, your device will be scanned, and the payment will be made.
Sometimes, you can avoid toll roads in Chile, but sometimes you cannot. Take Santiago to Valparaiso, for example; there is only one way to get there. Ensure your EToll device and account are set up before you leave on your road trip to avoid any issues.
Police Checks
Police checks are quite common in Chile, and most of the time, the police will want to see your driver’s license and documents but rarely want to search the car. This is more common around built-up areas and less likely to happen in rural areas like Patagonia in the North of Chile; either way, always have your documentation up to date and on hand in case you are stopped.
Gas Stations
Gas stations are standard throughout most of Chile; however, if your road trip includes spending time exploring Patagonia – which is recommended, then you should research the distances between gas stations along each route you take. Sometimes, it can be a few hundred kilometers before the next gas station, so always fill up whenever you can, just in case the stations are not open – which can happen quite often.
Ferrys and Distances
Getting around Chile requires long distances, gravel roads in places, and a few ferries around Patagonia, which should be booked in advance. Distances are much longer than you may have imagined; for instance, it is around 1000 km (621.37 mi) from Santiago de Chile to Puerto Montt/600 km (372.82 mi) from Puerto Montt to Coyhaique/1630km (1012.84 mi) from Santiago de Chile to San Pedro de Atacama.
If you have a short time and plan to visit all of Chile, you may want to reconsider your journey since the distances are pretty far, so it is best to embark on a trip around Chilean Patagonia, The Lake District, OR Northern Chile, rather than all of it. Ferries throughout Patagonia vary by schedule and can get booked up very fast, so always book in advance to avoid waiting days for the next one.
* It is worth noting that some companies will not allow you to leave Chile or use a ferry, so check this in advance.

Cross Border
If booking a rental car, many companies will not allow you to cross the border with their rental car, so if you plan a Patagonia Road trip, you may need to check that this is an option. Exploring Patagonia requires you to cross between Argentina and Chile multiple times, and if this requirement restricts you, you may miss out on the things you plan to visit.
If you plan to cross towards Peru, this may not be permitted with any rental company, so always check your desired route and compare the rules and regulations of each company to get the right one for you. One of the best ways to tackle the cross-border restriction in Patagonia is to hire a one-way rental in Chile and a second one-way rental in Argentina to create a loop.
Important Chile Rental Car Tips

- It is always recommended to take plenty of photos and video evidence of your rental car upon pick up. This will give you peace of mind and act as proof if you are charged for any scratches or dents that already exist. This is a crucial step when it comes to renting a car in Chile, so take your time to get all angles of the vehicle.
- Some of the best places to rent a car in Chile include Santiago de Chile, Temuco, Punta Arenas, and Calama, allowing you to embark on various routes throughout Chile. Some companies offer a one-way rental for an extra fee, which could be a great idea if you plan to fly in and out of two different locations.
- Renting your car online can save you a lot of money, so take the time to compare the various car rental companies to see which best suits you.
- One top tip to save money is the longer you rent the car, the cheaper it will be. Always play around with various dates when researching to compare the price difference between a few days, weeks, or months. You will be surprised how much you can save.
- Getting a local Chilean SIM card is a great idea to avoid having to search for the internet along your route. It is also essential for navigation, which you will need on your trip. The best networks in Chile with the best coverage are Claro and Movistar.
- Download Maps. Me for offline maps. This is especially great for finding attractions, gas stations, and other landmarks along the way, but it is not the best option for navigation.
The 4 Best Car Rentals in Chile
1. Sixt
Sixt is one of the most popular car rental options in Chile, and you will notice that they have some of the best deals in the country, so if you are looking for a great offer, Sixt could be the best one for you. Priding itself on having premium rentals at economy prices worldwide, Sixt has made a name for itself as one of the go-to rental companies in Chile and abroad.
Renting with Sixt Chile
- Rental cars cannot leave paved roads unless they are 4WD, for example, certain SUVs or pickup trucks.
- Flexi Return Guarantee allows you to deliver the car back to a different location without a fee if your plans change.
- All one-way rentals are requested, so contact the location for details if you only plan to drive one way.
- Cross-border rentals are not allowed.
- Third-party liability with a maximum coverage of 30,000,000.00 CLP for personal injuries and 30,000,000.00 CLP for material damages is included in the rate.
2. NU Car Rentals
With locations in Concepcion, Puerto Montt, Santiago, Talca, Temuco, Valparaiso, and Vina del Mar, NU Car Rentals is a flexible and affordable option. Promoting great rates, exclusive discounts, and cheap deals, this car rental company is worth checking out for its ongoing special offers.
Renting with NU Car Rentals:
- One-way rentals are allowed between any Rosselot location within Chile for a fee, and the rental counter must be advised of drop at the time of rental.
- Additional drivers are $10.00 clp per driver per day.
- Crossing the border to Argentina is not allowed.
- Vehicles may only be driven on paved roads; no off-road driving is permitted.
- The basic rental rate includes CDW, with a $500 deductible; however, a complete protection package is available for $24 per day.

3. Mitta
Mitta is an excellent option if you are looking for a great deal or perhaps a longer one since they offer great prices for month-long rentals. In addition, there are many benefits to booking with Mitta, including a free additional driver, discounts for Santander members, accumulation of miles for Latam Pass, and even a three-hour grace period at the end of the rental to save you stress.
These are just some benefits, but there are a few things to know when booking with Mitta.
Renting with Mitta:
- One-way rentals are permitted for a fee, calculated based on the distance to the other city.
- CDW is included in the rates and cannot be eliminated.
- No cost for an additional driver
- Free mileage. One-day leases in Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales include only 300 free kilometers; each extra kilometer costs $300 +19% VAT. For monthly rentals, the rate consists of a maximum of 4.000 free kilometers (each extra kilometer will be charged $100 + 19% VAT).
- A permit is issued to drive into Argentina with protection provided in case of accidents through the documentation,i.e., notarized permission, obligatory cover, and customs form for multiple crossings – all of which Mitta provides.
4. Europcar Chile
Europcar is one of the world’s most well-known car rental companies, and it has various locations within Chile, including but not limited to La Serena, Arica, Calama, Temuco, and Punta Arenas. Promising the best price guaranteed, Europcar always has ongoing online offers that may save you a few bucks on your rental, which is why comparing companies is so worth it.
Renting with Europcar:
- Drivers must be at least 18 to rent a car; however, there is a young driver fee ($10) if under 21.
- Cross border to Argentina is allowed, with 7 (working) days’ notice before the rental picks up.
- Additional drivers cost $6 per person per day for the rental.
- CDW/LDW is included in most policies and necessary when crossing the border. This includes limited third-party liability insurance.
- Only 4×4 rental cars are permitted to drive the Carretera Austral or similar off-road routes.
FAQs About Renting a Car in Chile

Is it safe to drive in Chile?
Chile is one of South America’s safest countries to drive, and the roads are in excellent condition. It is always advised to never drive at night for your safety and always be vigilant in and around cities like anywhere else. If in cities, always park your rental car in a guarded parking area, but in rural areas, the risks of theft are much lower. Driving in Santiagode Chile can be chaotic and unnecessary, soit is best to use public transport and rent your car from the day you leave the city to avoid stress.
Should I rent a car in Chile?
The short answer is YES! Chile is one of the best countries to discover with your own set of wheels, and you will find that many people are opting to explore the country with their car or a rental car. Chile is a popular country for foreign tourists to drive motor homes, which could be a great option if you plan to stay on a more extended vacation; otherwise, a rental car is an excellent way to get around during your time there. Driving in Chile is easy, especially on the main roads, so unless you plan to go off-road in a 4×4 rental, you will not have any issues here, making it accessible for those of all driving levels.
What’s the cheapest car rental company in Chile?
Sixt tends to have the lowest prices for car rentals in Chile, but you can compare prices on Discover Cars. Car rental prices can differ depending on ongoing promotions, your required time, and the time of year you book. Doing multiple searches on Discover Cars to see which option suits you best is best. Sometimes, a cheap car rental can seem too good to be true, and sometimes it is, so be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully for hidden costs or extras.
Do I need an International Driver’s License to rent a car in Chile?
The answer is both Yes and No. If your original driving license is not written using the Roman Alphabet, for example, if it is in Arabic, Chinese, or Japanese, then you will need an international driving license, which is only valid alongside the original version. Otherwise, you do not need an international driving license to drive a rental car in Chile.
How much does renting a car in Chile cost?
The costs can vary greatly depending on which car you plan to hire, what insurance you opt for, and what extras you add. For example, car rental in Chile starting and ending in Santiago de Chile can cost $158 (economy car) to $288 (4WD) for one week. These prices will vary depending on the time of year you are booking and the availability of the vehicles.
Can I rent a car in Chile?
If you have a valid driving license for at least one year, are at least 21 years of age, have a valid passport, and can provide a valid credit card in your name, you can rent a car in Chile. If you are under 21 or do not have a credit card, there may be other options, so check the terms and conditions with each company.
What side of the road do they drive on in Chile?
In Chile, all vehicles drive on the right-hand side. If this is new for you, getting used to driving on the opposite side of the road may take some time, so starting your journey in a quieter location rather than somewhere busy like Santiago de Chile is best.If you are renting a manual vehicle, you will need to get used to the handbrake, gears, and indicators being on the opposite side, so it is wise to take some time to get to know where everything is before joining traffic.
What are the top Chilean car rental companies?
The best car rentals in Chile are Flex ways, NU Car Rentals, Europcar, Sixt, and Routes Car Rental.