Car rental at Punta del Este Airport

Punta del Este Airport Car Hire (PDP)

See real-time prices from 11 car hire companies. Collect your car at arrivals and go.

Compare 11 providers Quick guide (2 min)
LocationAirport
Providers11
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ Compare 11 options ⚡ Instant results 🧾 Transparent pricing ⭐ Flexible booking

Quick answer: At Punta del Este Airport you can compare rental cars from 11 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 Punta del Este Airport

Punta del Este Airport (PDP) is located about 15 km from the city center and serves Uruguay's most exclusive beach resort. With 11 rental companies on-site, you can pick up your rental car immediately upon arrival and be on Ruta 10 along the coast within minutes. High season December–February requires booking well in advance.

From the airport, you can reach Playa Brava in about 20 minutes' drive and Punta del Este's iconic hand sculpture La Mano in approximately the same time. Want to explore Maldonado, the neighboring town 8 km away, it takes just 15 minutes by car. Book a rental car with unlimited mileage – distances along the coast to José Ignacio (40 km) and Montevideo (140 km) add up quickly.

Choose an SUV if you plan to visit the gravel roads toward Laguna Garzón. Check that your insurance covers driving into Argentina, popular via ferry from Colonia. How long does it take to drive from PDP to Montevideo?

Approximately 1.5–2 hours via Ruta Interbalnearia, a distance of about 140 km. Are there rental car offices open 24/7 at the airport? Most offices follow airport opening hours.

Check your rental company's specific times when booking, especially during low season. Can I drive the rental car to José Ignacio? Yes, José Ignacio is about 40 km east along the coast and is fully permitted – verify that gravel roads are included in your terms.

We compare prices from all major providers at Punta del Este 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 Punta del Este 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 Uruguay. 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 Punta del Este Airport

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

Dollar
Alamo
Keddy
Avis
Hertz
Europcar
Flexways
FOX
Enterprise
SIXT
National

Essential Info for Renting at Punta del Este Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers ▼

At Punta del Este Airport you can compare rentals from 11 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 Uruguay ▼

In Uruguay you drive on the Right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
  • Rural roads: 90 km/h
  • Motorway: 110 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,0 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼

Parking is available in cities, but be aware of fees.

Road tolls: Have always lite cash available for toll fees.

Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Punta del Este Airport

Which rental companies are available at Punta del Este Airport?▼
You can compare 11 rental companies at Punta del Este 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 Uruguay?▼
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 Punta del Este Airport?▼
The minimum age to rent in Uruguay 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 Uruguay?▼
In Uruguay you drive on the Right side. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads and 110 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?▼
When collecting your car at Punta del Este 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 Punta del Este 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 Punta del Este 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 Punta del Este Airport

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Rent a Car Near Punta del Este Airport

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