Car rental at Arica Airport

Car Rental at Arica Airport (ARI)

Compare deals from 2 rental companies right at the airport. Start your trip the moment you land.

Check prices — save up to 70% Quick guide (2 min)
LocationAirport
Providers2
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ Check 2 companies ⚡ Live prices 🧾 All terms shown upfront ⭐ Cancel for free

Quick answer: At Arica Airport you can compare rental cars from 2 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely — not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready — that's where most people get caught out.
Search rentals Quick guide Key info FAQ Nearby Map

About Renting a Car at Arica Airport

Chacalluta International Airport (ARI) is located about 18 km north of Arica center and just 2 km from the Peruvian border. With 2 rental companies on-site, it's convenient to start your journey directly from the landing strip. The airport's unique location near the Chile-Peru-Bolivia triple border makes it a strategic starting point.

From the airport, it's about 20 minutes to Arica center and about 45 minutes to Tacna in Peru via the Santa Rosa border crossing. Book your rental car in advance as supply is limited with only 2 rental companies. Check opening hours carefully – rental companies adjust their hours to flight times.

Ask if the car is suitable for driving at high altitudes if you plan to travel toward the Andes. How long does it take to drive from Arica airport to the center? About 18 km and takes approximately 20 minutes via Route 5 southward.

Can I rent a car at Arica airport and drop it off in Antofagasta? Contact the rental company directly – one-way is possible but usually comes with an extra charge and must be booked in advance. Are there taxi alternatives from the airport if rental cars are fully booked?

Yes, there are taxis and transfer services available outside the arrival hall.

We compare prices from all major providers at Arica 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.

Renting at Arica Airport — The Short Version

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra — check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of Chile. Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at Arica Airport

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Routes Car Rental
Mitta Rent A Car

Essential Info for Renting at Arica Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers ▼

At Arica Airport you can compare rentals from 2 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in Chile ▼

In Chile you drive on the Right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
  • Rural roads: 100 km/h
  • Motorway: 120 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,0 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼

Parking can be limited in cities, use betalparking where possible.

Road tolls: Var withveten if to sife roads haves högre toll fees än andra.

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at Arica Airport

Which rental companies are available at Arica Airport?▼
You can compare 2 rental companies at Arica Airport on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in Chile?▼
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at Arica Airport?▼
The minimum age to rent in Chile is typically 21 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in Chile?▼
In Chile you drive on the Right side. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on rural roads and 120 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?▼
When collecting your car at Arica Airport you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?▼
Most providers at Arica Airport use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at Arica Airport?▼
Generally, booking 2–4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

15-Day Weather Forecast for Arica

Car Rental Guides

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2 rental companies at Arica Airport. Enter your dates and find the right car.

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Arica Airport 2 providers
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