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Seamless Journey from Calama to Antofagasta

Experience the freedom of one-way car rentals and explore the scenic routes of Chile.

Can I rent a car from Calama to Antofagasta?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Calama to Antofagasta. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for CL residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Chile national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa and Master.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 150 years old. Young drivers aged 18 to 21 will incur a fee of US$ 10.00 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.)
  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 150 years old. Young drivers aged 18 to 21 will incur a fee of US$ 10.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Calama to Antofagasta cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 56/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 70/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 94-US$ 409US$ 0-US$ 152US$ 168-US$ 492Solo travelers, couples
SUVUS$ 108-US$ 437US$ 0-US$ 152US$ 210-US$ 565Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 127-US$ 146US$ 0US$ 265-US$ 324Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 119-US$ 453US$ 0-US$ 152US$ 243-US$ 603Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-way fee: Many car rental companies charge an additional fee for returning the car to a different location. Confirm the cost ahead of booking.
  • Route restrictions: Ensure that the rental agreement allows the chosen route, especially when traveling through different regions or provinces.
  • Refueling policies: Check whether you need to refill the fuel tank before returning the car and plan your stops for fuel accordingly.
  • Driver’s license and identification: Make sure to carry a valid driver’s license and additional required identification documents as per the rental agreement.
  • Drop-off location specifics: Review the exact drop-off point in Antofagasta to avoid confusion and potential delays.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book early: Secure your preferred vehicle and avoid potential price increases by making a reservation well in advance.
  • Inspect the vehicle: Before departing from Calama, inspect the rental car for any pre-existing damage and document it with the rental agency.
  • Use GPS navigation: Plan your route using accurate navigation systems to avoid taking wrong turns or missing key waypoints.
  • Study local traffic rules: Familiarize yourself with Chilean traffic regulations to ensure a smooth and legal journey.
  • Have a roadside assistance plan: Verify the availability of 24/7 support from your rental provider in case of emergencies along the route.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the vehicle to the agreed level before returning to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Plan refueling stops in advance, especially in remote areas.

Fuel Cost

Estimated average fuel cost: $1.20 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce drag.

Minimize the use of air conditioning when not necessary.

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Calama Parking

Parking near the city center is generally available but may incur fees.

Some areas offer free parking during weekends.

Avoid parking in restricted zones to prevent fines.

Antofagasta Parking

Look for designated parking lots near the drop-off location.

Street parking may be limited during peak hours.

Consider using paid parking facilities for added security.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia

SpotHero

ParkMe

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Calama to Antofagasta:
Route 1 - Scenic Coastal Drive
Scenic Route 2 hours 30 minutes

This coastal route offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, with opportunities to stop at beaches and small fishing villages.

Mejillones , Hornitos , La Portada Natural Monument
Route 2 - Desert Adventure
Desert Route 3 hours

Explore the Atacama Desert with this route, featuring dramatic landscapes and unique rock formations.

Chacabuco Salts , Cerro Paranal Observatory
Route 3 - Historical Landmarks
Cultural Route 2 hours 45 minutes

Discover the historical landmarks between these cities, including mining history and colonial architecture.

Maria Elena , Salt Refinery Museum
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Research the Route: Study the route in advance, identifying possible hazards and gas station locations. Mobile signal may not be reliable in some stretches.

Check Rental Conditions: Verify car rental policies, particularly regarding one-way rentals and cross-border permissions if necessary.

Fuel Up Before Starting: Ensure the car has a full tank as fuel stations might be sparse along the way.

Pack Essentials: Bring sunscreen, water, and food because roadside amenities could be limited.

Emergency Preparedness: Carry a toolkit and be aware of emergency numbers.

Plan for Time: Allocate sufficient time to enjoy key stops and allow for unforeseen delays, such as weather changes.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Picking the right car rental service ensures a seamless journey between Calama and Antofagasta. Below are companies that provide reliable one-way rental options.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Avis$$WideHigh Good reputation for service , Flexible return locations
Hertz$$$ModerateExtensive Known for premium cars , 24/7 customer support
Europcar$ExtensiveModerate Affordable pricing , Eco-friendly car options
Budget$$ModerateHigh Cost-efficient packages , Frequent discounts
QEEQ

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

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24/7 Customer Services

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Rental Car Centers in Calama

Operating Hours:

Rental car centers operate between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM.

Proximity to Airport:

Rental desks are located within the Calama airport terminal.

Shuttle Service to Pickup Lot:

Shuttle services run every 15 minutes to off-terminal lots.

Pro Tips for Calama Airport(CJC) Car Rentals

Always confirm your return destination with the rental center to avoid unexpected fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay an additional fee for a one-way car rental?

Most car rental companies charge a one-way fee when the vehicle is dropped off at a location different from the pickup location. This fee varies depending on the provider.

Are there specific requirements for returning a car in Antofagasta, different from Calama?

Generally, the vehicle should be returned in the same condition it was rented, with a full tank of gas unless agreed otherwise. Specific conditions may vary depending on the rental company.

What should I do if I'm late returning the car?

If you're unable to return the car on time, you should contact the rental company as soon as possible. Late returns might incur additional charges.

Can I choose where in Antofagasta to return the rental car?

Most car rental services have designated drop-off points or offices in Antofagasta. Make sure to confirm with the provider in advance.

Is it possible to rent a car in Calama for a couple of hours only?

While most rentals are on a daily basis, some providers might offer hourly rentals or flexible terms. Always inquire directly with the rental company for specific policies.

Ready to Book Your Calama to Antofagasta Adventure?

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