Car Rental in Patagonia: Best Tips and Companies
Renting a car is the most flexible and popular way to explore both Chilean and Argentine Patagonia.
Vasiliki Kelaidi
Patagonia (Chile and Argentina), Argentina
Best Car Rental Companies in Puerto Natales (Chile)
LYS Rent a Car
Chilean company with modern vehicles, reliability, and 24/7 English support. Ideal for long road trips, remote areas, and border crossings into Argentina.
Europcar – Puerto Natales
Offers a wide fleet including SUVs and vans—great if you need extra space.
Magallanes Rent a Car
Local, highly rated rental agency with flexible pickup/drop-off options within Puerto Natales and good-quality vehicles.
Avis – Puerto Natales
Internationally recognized brand offering consistent service standards and straightforward insurance options.
Best Car Rental Companies in El Calafate (Argentina)
SIXT – El Calafate Airport
Located right at the airport, making pickup/drop-off convenient.
Europcar – El Calafate Airport
Reliable international brand, good for peace of mind on a remote trip.
Summit Rent a Car – El Calafate Airport
Local competitor with good value. Make sure to ask how they handle vehicle maintenance and remote breakdowns.
Why Rent a Car in Patagonia?
Total freedom to stop at viewpoints and photo locations
Access to remote trails and hidden gems
No dependence on limited bus schedules
Perfect for multi-day itineraries across Chile and Argentina
Essential Car Rental Tips
Vehicle type matters: For many remote roads in Patagonia (especially gravel or secondary roads), a 4×4 or SUV is strongly recommended.
Border crossings: If you plan to drive from Chile to Argentina (e.g., Puerto Natales → El Calafate or across the border), check that the rental company allows this and handles paperwork. This usally costs around 100 USD on top of the rental car price.
Insurance & road-conditions: Check the deductible, what terrain is covered (gravel vs paved), whether snow chains are included.
Pickup/Drop-off logistics: Ensure you know where you pick up (airport vs downtown), fuel policy (full-to-full is best), and one-way drop fees. Some companies may have high fees for drop-offs in a different city/country.
Book early: Rental cars in this region sell out during high season, and prices rise.
Fuel up often; gas stations can be 150–200 km apart.
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