Car rental at the Desierto de Atacama Airport

Experience the driest place on earth, the Atacama Desert, with its mesmerising landscapes, shimmering salt flats, and wildlife that has adapted to thrive here. Explore quaint local desert towns with your rental car, dine on traditional Chilean cuisine and fully immerse in the rich local culture.

Atacama Airport

Car Rental Stations

Desierto de Atacama Airport hosts a couple of well-known car rental services, ready to take you on your road trip through the desert. Major rental agencies present at the airport include Hertz, Europcar, and local providers.

Gas Stations

It's important to note that gas stations can be sporadic in this remote part of Chile. Be sure to fill up your tank before venturing into the breathtaking landscapes of Atacama. A conveniently-located gas station is situated less than 10km from the airport.

Navigating Atacama

Driving Routes

The mostly straight and flat roads here make for fairly easy driving. The scenic Ruta 5 route, that connects many sights in Atacama, offers a unique driving experience.

Accessibility

While the natural terrain can potentially pose challenges, the common asphalt roads are well maintained. Some tourist attractions may require traversing dirt roads, where a 4x4 car would be particularly useful.

Climate and Currency

The Atacama region is known for its arid climate, with sunshine reigning supreme throughout the year. Temperature averages range from 0°C in the winter to 25°C in the summer.
The local currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP), which you can easily get from ATMs at the airport or in nearby cities.

Surrounding Cities

With your rental car, you can comfortably explore fascinating nearby cities including San Pedro de Atacama, known for its stunning night skies, and Calama, with its rich cultural heritage.

Experience Atacama

The Atacama region is unique. It's not just a trip, it's an adventure of a lifetime. Welcome to Chile, let's explore Atacama together.