Rent a Car at Trelew Airport (REL)

Almirante Marcos A. Zar Airport (REL) is located 5 km northeast of Trelew and is the gateway to Patagonia's wilderness with direct flights from Buenos Aires Aeroparque. With 10 rental companies on-site, it's easy to pick up a rental car right upon arrival and venture into Patagonia.

Puerto Madryn and the Valdés Peninsula are reached 65 km north (about 1 hour). The airport serves the entire Chubut region and is the starting point for exploring the Valdés Peninsula (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Punta Tombo, and the Welsh village of Gaiman 23 km west. The Museo Paleontológico Egidio Feruglio in Trelew is just 7 km away.

Pick up your rental car right upon arrival – queues can get long during peak season (November–February). Plan your route to the Valdés Peninsula early in the morning to have time to see both guanacos and orcas at Punta Norte. Bring extra water and fuel – service stations are sparse in Patagonia.

Which rental companies operate at Trelew airport? There are 10 rental companies at REL, including international chains like Hertz, Avis, and Budget as well as local Argentine companies. How long does it take to drive from Trelew airport to the Valdés Peninsula?

It's about 145 km and takes roughly 2 hours via Puerto Madryn and then north toward the peninsula's entrance at Istmo Carlos Ameghino. Do I need a 4WD to explore Patagonia from Trelew? Not necessarily – most main roads are paved, but gravel roads are common to Punta Tombo and the interior of the Valdés Peninsula.

A standard car is sufficient for most routes.

We compare prices from all major providers at Trelew Airport so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.