Car Rentals in El Calafate, ARG

Reasons to book a car hire in and around El Calafate

Renting a car in El Calafate offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this stunning region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Gnome Village, a delightful cultural experience, and the El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center, where you can delve into the area’s rich history. The Glaciarium, an environmental centre, is also conveniently accessible, allowing for an informative and engaging outing. Beyond the city, a drive to Cerro Frias, located 25 km away, provides breathtaking views of Lake Argentino and Lago Argentino. You can also explore the neighbourhood of Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos, which features the scenic Avenue del Libertador and the Glaciarium. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, a rental car enhances your journey, making it easier to manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as you go. This convenience is particularly beneficial for families or those looking to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and attractions of El Calafate.

Most popular car hires in El Calafate

• Midsize: This car option accommodates up to 5 travellers along with the capacity for 3 large suitcases. It is an ideal choice for couples and families who require a bit more space for their luggage while exploring the beautiful surroundings of El Calafate.
• Standard: Similar to the Midsize, the Standard car also accommodates 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it another excellent option for couples and families, offering ample room for both passengers and luggage, perfect for a comfortable journey.
• Economy: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the Economy car can accommodate up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is particularly suited for those looking for a compact yet functional vehicle, providing flexibility and ease during your travels in and around El Calafate.

Top rated car suppliers in El Calafate

• Hertz: Hertz is a leading choice for car hire in El Calafate, boasting 2 rental locations within the city. Travellers appreciate the availability of Standard and Economy vehicles, which are ideal for exploring the region's scenic attractions at a comfortable pace. Their well-maintained fleet ensures reliability during your trip, making Hertz a popular option among visitors seeking convenience and flexibility.
• Sixt: Sixt offers a single rental location in El Calafate and is well-regarded for its selection of Midsize and Standard Pickup vehicles. This supplier is favoured by those who desire a robust vehicle for their adventures in the stunning landscapes of Patagonia. Customers often highlight the ease of the rental process and the quality of service, making Sixt a solid choice for your car hire needs.
• FlexWays: With 2 rental locations in El Calafate, FlexWays is another excellent option for car hire. Their most popular vehicles include Compact and Economy models, providing affordable choices for budget-conscious travellers. Customers often commend FlexWays for their friendly service and efficient rental process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey through the breathtaking surroundings of El Calafate.

Where to stay in and around El Calafate

• Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos: This charming neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Located around El Calafate, it offers easy access to recreational areas and tours. Key attractions nearby include the Glaciarium, an environmental centre, and the historic Avenue del Libertador. Visitors can also unwind at local spas or enjoy the vibrant bar scene, making it a well-rounded choice for travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature and culture.
• Cerro Frias: Situated 25 km from El Calafate, Cerro Frias is a natural park ideal for nature enthusiasts. It boasts a scenic environment with access to nature reserves and stunning natural parks. Highlights include the picturesque Lake Argentino, perfect for a romantic outing or a day of outdoor activities. The area's tranquil beauty and outdoor opportunities make it an attractive option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
• El Calafate Centro: As the heart of El Calafate, this neighbourhood is vibrant with outdoor and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the Gnome Village and the Santa Teresita del Nino Jesus Church, both of which reflect the local charm. The neighbourhood is also home to the Avenue del Libertador, a popular street filled with shops and eateries, ensuring you are never far from the action. El Calafate Centro is an excellent base for those wishing to experience the best of the local culture and attractions.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around El Calafate

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for cost-efficiency, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in busy 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, although the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire providers exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Purchasing car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around El Calafate

The best value period to rent a car in and around El Calafate is June, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. Additionally, May and August offer reasonable rates with low to average demand. However, from December, the prices tend to rise and demand can be high, making it the most expensive month for rentals. January also sees high demand and average pricing, while November experiences moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
February	51.4°F (10.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	47.8°F (8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
April	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
May	37.4°F (3.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
June	32.7°F (0.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
July	31.1°F (-0.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately High
August	32.2°F (0.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
September	36.1°F (2.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	40.8°F (4.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
November	45.7°F (7.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
December	49.3°F (9.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High