Calama Car Rental

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Comparison of Car Rental Prices by Model in Calama

All you need to know about car hire in Calama

Calama, a city in northern Chile, is a gateway to the Atacama Desert and offers a range of car hire options to suit various needs. Whether you're planning to explore the stunning landscapes of the desert or visit nearby attractions, renting a car can provide the flexibility and convenience you need. Here’s what you need to know about car hire in Calama:

Why Hire a Car in Calama?

  • Flexibility: Renting a car allows you to explore at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path locations that are not easily accessible by public transport.
  • Comfort: Enjoy the comfort of a private vehicle, especially when traveling long distances or with family and friends.
  • Convenience: Car hire services are available at Calama’s El Loa Airport and in the city center, making it easy to pick up and drop off your vehicle.

Types of Vehicles Available

Car hire companies in Calama offer a variety of vehicles to meet different needs:

  • Economy Cars: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers and small groups.
  • SUVs: Perfect for those planning to venture into rugged terrains or travel with more luggage.
  • Luxury Vehicles: For those looking to travel in style and comfort.

Important Tips

  • Book in Advance: To ensure availability and get the best rates, it’s advisable to book your car hire in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Check Insurance: Make sure to understand the insurance coverage provided and consider additional coverage if necessary.
  • Driver’s License: Ensure you have a valid driver’s license. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Fuel Policy: Familiarize yourself with the car hire company’s fuel policy to avoid unexpected charges.

By keeping these points in mind, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable car hire experience in Calama, allowing you to fully explore the breathtaking beauty of the Atacama Desert and beyond.

Minimize Your Carbon Footprint: Rent an Electric Car in Calama

Average daily rates for renting an electric car in Calama

Calama, a gateway to the Atacama Desert, offers a range of electric car rental options for eco-conscious travelers. Popular electric car models available for rent include the Nissan Leaf, BMW i3, and Tesla Model 3. These vehicles not only provide a sustainable way to explore the region but also offer a smooth and quiet driving experience.

Here are the average daily rental rates for some popular electric car models in Calama:

  • Nissan Leaf: CLP 50,000 - 60,000
  • BMW i3: CLP 70,000 - 80,000
  • Tesla Model 3: CLP 100,000 - 120,000

These rates can vary depending on the rental company, duration of the rental, and additional services or insurance options. Renting an electric car in Calama is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the stunning landscapes of northern Chile.

Our advantages

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One way car rental options in Calama

One way car rental options in Calama offer flexibility for travelers looking to explore different parts of Chile without the need to return the vehicle to the original rental location. This is particularly convenient for those planning to visit multiple cities or regions. Several car rental companies in Calama provide this service, allowing you to drop off the car in another city such as Antofagasta, San Pedro de Atacama, or even Santiago.

Prices for one way rentals can vary depending on the distance and the rental company. On average, you can expect to pay an additional fee ranging from €50 to €150 for returning the car in a different city. For example, renting a car in Calama and returning it in Antofagasta might incur an extra charge of around €60, while returning it in Santiago could cost approximately €120. It is advisable to check with the rental company for specific rates and any potential discounts.

Month-to-Month Variations in Car Rental Prices

Thrifty Travel: Practical Tips for Saving on Car Rentals in Calama

1. Book in advance

To save on car rentals, it's wise to book early—especially in tourist-heavy areas where high demand can lead to increased prices. Early booking ensures you get a lower rate and the vehicle you prefer.


Book Early, Save More

Many rental agencies in Calama offer "early-bird" discounts, potentially cutting costs by 20% to 30%. This is particularly useful during busy travel seasons when prices rise.


Plan Ahead for More Options

Early booking not only saves money but also allows you to compare prices more effectively. Flexibility in travel dates can lead to additional savings.


R-TG.com: The Best Deals in One Place

Visit our website, r-tg.com, to find the best rates. We compile offers from various providers and often feature exclusive discounts, making it easier to find the best deal in Calama.

2. Compare Various Suppliers

Scouring multiple sources for car rental rates is one of the best strategies to secure a cost-effective deal. Different rental companies have varying price structures, and the cost can differ widely even for identical vehicle categories.


The Importance of Comparing Rates

Let's say you're interested in a compact vehicle like a Opel Astra. While you may initially lean toward established brands like sixt or budget, don't overlook smaller, local agencies. These lesser-known providers may offer enticing rates to lure customers away from larger competitors.


Illustrative Pricing

For example, renting a Opel Astra from sixt could set you back €22 per day, with basic insurance included. In contrast, budget might charge €71 per day for the same car, but with a limited mileage allowance. A more thorough search could reveal a local vendor offering the Opel Astra at a daily rate of just €13, with unlimited mileage to boot.

3. Utilize Discount Codes

Leveraging discount codes can significantly reduce your car rental costs in Calama. This allows you to upgrade your car, extend the rental period, or simply save money. This isn't just a trick for deal-seekers; it's a common practice in the industry.


Discount Categories

Various discounts are often available, from AAA membership perks to military family rates and even credit card-based offers. It pays to find out which ones you qualify for.


Where to Look

Discount codes are available through:

  1. Rental websites
  2. Travel deal sites
  3. Membership organizations
  4. Email lists
  5. Social media


Caveats

Read the fine print, as codes often come with conditions like blackout dates or restricted car types.

4. Decline the Prepaid Fuel Option

Prepaid fuel may seem convenient, but it often comes at a higher cost. Filling up the tank yourself usually results in savings.


Prepaid Fuel Explained

Opting for prepaid fuel means you pay for a full tank at the rental company's rates, which are usually marked up. Unused fuel is generally non-refundable.


Assess Your Needs

If you won't drive much, prepaid fuel is less economical as you may return the car with unused gas.


Weigh Time vs. Cost

Skipping prepaid fuel saves money but requires planning. Balance the savings against your time to decide if it's worth it.

In short, while prepaid fuel is convenient, self-refueling is often cheaper. A little planning can maximize your savings.

5. Choose Economy Cars

Choosing an economy car over a larger, luxury vehicle can lead to substantial savings, not just in rental costs but also in terms of fuel efficiency. This is especially important in places with high gas prices or for longer trips where fuel costs can add up quickly.


Why Economy Cars Make Sense

Economy cars generally offer the lowest per-day rental rates and boast excellent fuel efficiency, meaning you'll spend less on gas during your trip. These smaller vehicles are also easier to maneuver and park, particularly in crowded urban settings or on narrow roads.


Going Electric for More Savings

In addition to traditional economy cars, consider opting for an electric car in Calama. While the per-day rental rate for an electric car may be slightly higher, the money you'll save on fuel can more than compensate for this. Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly common as rental options, and they offer the added benefit of reducing your carbon footprint.


Electric Car Price Example

An electric model like the Renault Zoe might cost €95 per day to rent but could save you the entire fuel cost, especially if your lodging offers free electric vehicle charging or if you can find free public charging stations.


Additional Perks of Electric Cars

Driving an electric car can also grant you access to carpool lanes in some cities, even if you're the only person in the vehicle. This can save you time during your trip, which is another form of savings altogether.


By choosing an economy car in Calama, and even better, an electric one, you're opting for a rental option that is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Always compare the total costs—rental rate plus estimated fuel costs—to determine the best option for your trip.

6. Look for Package Deals

Many travel platforms offer bundled packages that include airfare, lodging, and car rentals, often resulting in significant cost savings.

7. Reserve the Smallest Car and Upgrade Later

Choosing the least expensive car might seem counterintuitive, but it could result in a free upgrade.


The Method

Rental companies often run out of economy cars. If you book one, you might receive a free upgrade to a larger car.


Pros and Cons

While it's a gamble, you could win big, especially during peak seasons. In the worst case, you get an economical ride.


Upgrade Tips

  1. Book During Busy Times: Higher chance of upgrades.
  2. Early Bird: Arrive early to snag available upgrades.
  3. Just Ask: A polite query could get you a better car.
  4. Loyalty Counts: Being a program member can help.
  5. Look for Deals: Sometimes, cheap upgrade offers are available at check-in.
8. Verify Your Auto Insurance

Before choosing the rental company's insurance, review your own auto insurance policy to determine if it covers rentals. If it does, you can avoid the extra cost.

9. Monitor Seasonal Promotions

Rental car companies in Calama often offer special deals and discounts, especially during holidays or quieter seasons. To stay informed about these time-sensitive offers, consider signing up for their email updates or frequently visiting their websites. Social media is another platform where they might post unique offers.


Utilizing these tips in your travel preparations significantly increases the likelihood of securing a cost-effective car rental. Being a knowledgeable and savvy shopper in this bustling environment can help you manage your spending more effectively.

10. Be Aware of Mileage Limits

Don't overlook mileage limits in Calama car rentals; they can lead to unexpected fees.


Types of Mileage Plans

Rental firms offer unlimited, daily, or total trip mileage plans. Choose wisely to avoid extra costs.


Overage Charges

Exceeding the limit can cost between $0.25 and $0.75 per extra km.


Be Proactive

Inquire about mileage policies when you pick up the car and negotiate better terms if possible.

Being savvy about mileage can keep your travel budget on track.

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