El Calafate Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around El Calafate

Renting a car in El Calafate offers travellers the freedom and flexibility to explore this stunning region at their own pace. With convenient luggage management, you can easily navigate to various attractions without the hassle of public transport schedules. For those interested in cultural experiences, the Gnome Village and the El Calafate Historical Interpretation Center are both within the city and easily accessible by car. Additionally, the Glaciarium, an environmental centre, provides an excellent opportunity for eco-friendly exploration nearby.

Beyond the city, a rental car allows you to visit popular destinations such as Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the local landscape. The Macrozona Lago Argentino neighbourhood features attractions like Laguna Nimez and Bahía Redonda, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For those seeking adventure, Cerro Frias, located 25 km from El Calafate, offers breathtaking views of Lake Argentino. Whether you are travelling with family, friends, or solo, having a rental car enhances your experience, making it easier to discover the captivating scenery and outdoor activities that El Calafate has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in El Calafate

• Midsize: This car option accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for couples and families. With its balanced size, the Midsize car offers comfort without compromising on space, allowing you to travel with ease in and around El Calafate while managing your luggage effectively.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, and small families, the Compact car can also accommodate up to 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it easier to navigate through the streets of El Calafate and find parking, all while ensuring you have enough room for your belongings during your journey.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families and groups, the Fullsize car accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it a great choice for those looking to explore El Calafate comfortably while ensuring that everyone travels together without feeling cramped.

Top rated car suppliers in El Calafate

• Sixt: Sixt offers a reliable car rental service with one convenient location in El Calafate. Known for their excellent customer service, they provide a selection of vehicles that cater to various needs. The most booked options include Midsize and Fullsize cars, perfect for travellers looking for comfort and space while exploring the stunning landscapes of the region.
• FlexWays: FlexWays is another popular choice for visitors in El Calafate, with a single rental location. They specialise in providing Fullsize SUVs and Economy cars, making them ideal for adventurers seeking to navigate the area's diverse terrain. Their focus on customer satisfaction ensures a smooth rental experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.
• Avis: Avis also has a presence in El Calafate with one rental location. They are well-regarded for their range of Midsize and Economy vehicles, which offer great practicality for both solo travellers and families. Avis's commitment to quality service and straightforward rental processes makes them a top choice for those wishing to explore El Calafate and its surroundings at their own pace.

Where to stay in and around El Calafate

• Macrozona Bahía Redonda y Primeros Faldeos: This vibrant neighbourhood offers a fantastic blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, from exploring the nearby national park to relaxing at a local spa. Key points of interest include the famous Avenue del Libertador and the environmental centre Glaciarium, which cater to eco-friendly and business stays. Cultural enthusiasts may appreciate the Anfiteatro Del Bosque, ideal for cultural holidays, making this area an excellent base for adventure seekers.
• Macrozona Lago Argentino: Known for its breathtaking scenery, Macrozona Lago Argentino is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With recreational areas for birdwatching and stunning sunsets, this neighbourhood boasts attractions such as Laguna Nimez, a picturesque lake great for outdoor romantic getaways. Visitors can also enjoy the serene beach at Bahía Redonda and take in the views from the Bahía Redonda Viewpoint, making it a delightful area to unwind and explore.
• Cerro Frias: Located 25 km from El Calafate, Cerro Frias is a natural park offering a peaceful retreat for those keen on nature reserves. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of local natural parks. The area is in proximity to Glaciarium, catering to eco-friendly stays, and the scenic Lake Argentino, which is perfect for romantic outings and outdoor activities. This neighbourhood is an excellent choice for those seeking tranquility away from the bustling town.

10 tips to save on your car rental 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 additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals adhere to a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid any extra charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides additional peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
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 August, when prices are at their lowest and demand is typically low. June and July also present moderately low prices with reduced demand, making them attractive options as well. In contrast, January tends to be the most expensive month with high demand, followed closely by December, which also sees increased rental rates and busy conditions. 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	Moderately High
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	Average	Average
April	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	37.4°F (3.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	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 Low
August	32.2°F (0.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	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	Average
November	45.7°F (7.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
December	49.3°F (9.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High