South America car rentals

On average a rental car in South America costs C$ 69 per day.

Economy (Class Economy Car or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in South America.

In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Fox (C$ 25/day), Localiza (C$ 26/day) and Thrifty (C$ 27/day).

Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in South America are Localiza (8.1, 68 reviews), Dollar (7.6, 106 reviews), and Alamo (7.0, 411 reviews).

Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.

Based on car searches on KAYAK, the most popular cities to rent a car in South America are Sao Paulo (11% of total searches of users looking to rent a car in South America), Santiago (9%) and Bogotá (7%).

On average a rental car in South America costs C$ 505 per week (C$ 72 per day).

On average a rental car in South America costs C$ 2,165 per month (C$ 72 per day).

Renting a car in South America offers several advantages over relying solely on public transportation. With a rental car, you have the convenience and freedom to explore South America's vast, diverse landscapes and remote natural wonders at your own pace. A rental car also grants you the flexibility to deviate from fixed schedules and access off-the-beaten-path destinations, which may be difficult to reach via public transport. Furthermore, some of the attractions in South America that you'll access via a rental car include Iguazu Falls, Christ the Redeemer, and Torres del Paine National Park.

Driving in South America can be a distinct and challenging experience. The driving style and culture on this vast continent vary significantly based on the specific country. Generally, South American driving tends to be more assertive and less rule-bound. Traffic rules, including speed limits, are often seen as guidelines rather than strict laws, and you'll frequently encounter a more chaotic approach to navigating roads. In urban areas, roads are well-maintained. However, traffic congestion can be extreme, and drivers often switch lanes frequently. In rural and remote areas, the road infrastructure can be less developed, with winding mountain roads or unpaved paths.

The minimum age requirement to rent a car in South American countries ranges from 21 to 25 years old, with 21 being the most common. However, many rental providers feature extra fees and vehicle class restrictions for drivers under the age of 25. It's necessary for renters to inquire about the specific age requirements and policies of the rental provider and the country they intend to visit, as they can vary widely and may affect availability and the total cost of renting a vehicle.