Chile Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Chile

Renting a car in Chile provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the country at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for tourists. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, allowing for spontaneous stops along the way. This is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures or romantic getaways.

You can visit breathtaking attractions like Torres del Paine National Park, known for its stunning scenery and adventure opportunities, or immerse yourself in Chilean culture at the historic Palacio de la Moneda and Plaza de Armas, both located in Santiago. With a car, you can travel conveniently to popular destinations such as San José de Maipo, where you can relax at Termas Valle de Colina, or venture to San Pedro de Atacama to see the Valley of the Moon and Pukara de Quitor Archaeological Site. Renting a car allows you to experience the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of Chile without the constraints of public transport schedules, making it a practical option for all types of travellers.

Most popular car hires in Chile

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle option is a popular choice for those travelling in groups or with family, as it comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and can handle up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV offers ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Chile’s attractions at their own pace.
• Economy: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families, the Economy car option can comfortably seat up to 5 occupants while providing room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is an excellent choice for those seeking to navigate Chile efficiently, offering flexibility and ease of travel without sacrificing comfort.
• Standard SUV: This option is well-suited for couples, families, or groups of up to 5 travellers, with space for 2 medium suitcases. The Standard SUV combines comfort and functionality, making it a versatile choice for exploring the diverse landscapes of Chile, ensuring that your travel experience remains enjoyable and convenient.

Where to stay in Chile

• Santiago: A bustling metropolis, Santiago offers a vibrant city experience. Here, you can explore landmarks such as `Palacio de la Moneda` and `Plaza de Armas`, both excellent for cultural holidays. Enjoy nearby attractions like the `Julio Martinez Pradanos National Stadium`, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For shopping and dining, the area boasts numerous restaurants and wineries, making it an ideal base for families and city adventurers alike.
• San Pedro de Atacama: Known for its stunning outdoor scenery, San Pedro de Atacama is perfect for those seeking adventure. Attractions like the `Valley of the Moon` offer breathtaking landscapes for exploration. The `Plaza de San Pedro de Atacama` provides a cultural hub, while the local market and spas cater to relaxation and enjoyment. This area is particularly appealing for travellers wanting to immerse themselves in nature.
• San José de Maipo: This charming city is a gateway to skiing and outdoor adventures. With attractions like `Termas Valle de Colina`, you can indulge in wellness and relaxation amidst the mountains. The `San Jose de Maipo Square` serves as a local landmark, while the nearby `Julio Martinez Pradanos National Stadium` offers cultural and sports experiences. Ideal for adventure seekers, San José de Maipo is a great choice for a dynamic stay.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Chile

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the type of vehicle and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Chile

The best value period to rent a car in Chile is July, when prices are slightly low and demand is also low. June and August can be good options as well, with similar pricing and demand characteristics. March sees average prices and demand, making it another shoulder period for renting. However, January is the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices, while February follows closely with average prices and continued high demand.