Car rental in Ushuaia

At first glance, Ushuaia may seem compact. You can easily walk around the city center, but most of the interesting places are outside it: viewpoints, hiking trails, and beaches. Taxis are suitable only for short rides—if you want to visit several places in one day, they quickly become inconvenient and expensive. Renting a car in Ushuaia lets you plan your route without worrying about fares, waiting times, or relying on public transport.

Why it’s better to book a car on Localrent

Looking for a car after arrival usually means choosing from what’s left. Online booking on Localrent allows you to select a suitable vehicle in advance and avoid spending your first hours in the city comparing rental options. Here are more benefits of renting through Localrent:

1. Almost all vehicles come with unlimited mileage.
2. Only a small prepayment is required—usually 15–20%, with the remaining amount paid upon pickup.
3. The fleet includes various types of vehicles, from compact models to crossovers and minivans.
4. Most cars are no older than five years, and many are just 1–3 years old.
5. Customer support stays in touch throughout the entire rental period.

Booking online lets you focus on enjoying Ushuaia instead of dealing with logistics.

Driver’s license and age requirements

To rent a car in Ushuaia, you’ll need a valid driver’s license and your passport. You’ll also need the voucher you receive by email after booking.

The minimum driver age is usually 22, with at least two years of driving experience. Requirements vary by vehicle, so check the car’s details before booking.

Driving rules and tips in Ushuaia

In Ushuaia and the surrounding areas of Patagonia, roads are often narrow with sharp elevation changes. Winds along the Beagle Channel can be strong and sudden. Traffic is light, but drivers are used to maneuvering quickly in limited space.

Standard speed limits in Argentina:

• 40 km/h in residential areas and near schools
• 60 km/h within the city
• Up to 110–120 km/h on highways

These are general guidelines. Some sections may have different limits, so always follow road signs.

On the hills around Ushuaia, be prepared for uneven terrain and occasional potholes. Many intersections have no traffic lights or yield signs—when in doubt, give way to the vehicle on your right.

The region is known for its changeable weather. Winds can intensify at any time, especially along the coast, affecting vehicle stability. During colder months, roads may become slippery due to ice or wet asphalt.

Pay special attention to these signs:

• Slippery road: a yellow triangle with a car leaving wavy tire marks. It warns that the surface may be slippery due to rain, ice, or snow.
• Crosswinds: a white diamond with a plant bent by wind. It indicates strong gusts that may affect vehicle stability.

Warning signs are often accompanied by a small white plate with a number—this is the recommended speed for that section.

Gas stations in Ushuaia

There are several gas stations in Ushuaia, mostly under the YPF brand, located at the city entrance, in central areas, and in residential districts. Other stations exist, but they are less common.

In Argentina, most gas stations are full-service. An attendant fills your tank, and you usually pay afterward inside the shop.

Keep in mind that stations outside Ushuaia are rare. The next major one is in Tolhuin, about 80 km away, and then in Río Grande farther north. It’s best to refuel whenever you have the chance, especially before leaving the city.

Parking in Ushuaia

Parking is available both in residential neighborhoods and in the city center. Cars are typically parked parallel to the curb or at a 45-degree angle—follow the markings or existing parked cars.

Street parking can be either paid or free. Paid areas are more common downtown, along San Martín Avenue and nearby streets. Paid parking usually operates during weekdays from morning to evening. On weekends and public holidays, parking is generally free. Paid zones are clearly marked with signs showing rates and payment methods. If there are no paid parking signs, restrictions, or road markings, you can usually park for free.

During high season, parking in the center may take a few minutes to find near popular streets or attractions. Overall, the city is small, so finding a spot usually doesn’t take long.

How to search and book a car in Ushuaia

First, select your rental dates. If you need the car at a specific location—airport, rental office, or delivery to your address—set this filter right away. Then:

1. Adjust filters for a convenient search.
2. Open the page of the car you like.
3. Add extras such as a booster seat, child seat, extended insurance, or an additional driver.
4. Fill out the booking form.
5. Pay the 15–20% deposit and save the voucher sent to your email.

When picking up the car, inspect it together with the rental representative, note any existing damage, sign the contract, pay the remaining amount and deposit, and receive all documents and contact details.

Places to visit in and around Ushuaia

The surroundings of Ushuaia offer many scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and historic sites. Consider visiting:

1. Cerro Castor – a ski resort south of Ushuaia. In both summer and winter, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Andes. In season, try skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or dog sledding.
2. Tolhuin – a small town in central Tierra del Fuego, famous for fresh bread and local bakeries. It’s a great stop for a short walk, shopping, and berry pies.
3. Siete Cascadas – a natural area 6 km from the city center. An easy forest trail leads to a series of waterfalls and small lakes, with bridges and viewpoints along the way. You may spot local birds, including Andean condors. In winter, the waterfalls partially freeze, forming ice sculptures.
4. End of the World Museum – features exhibitions about indigenous peoples, Antarctic expeditions, and the maritime history of Tierra del Fuego. Small but very interesting.
5. Antigua Casa Beban – a historic building in the center of Ushuaia, built in the early 20th century by one of the first settler families. Today, it showcases early life in Tierra del Fuego, with original architecture, interiors, and artifacts.

Many roads in Tierra del Fuego are unpaved, and some are not accessible by standard cars. Rental vehicles are usually allowed only on public roads, so check with your rental manager before planning off-road trips.

Where to rent a car in Ushuaia

For trips around Ushuaia, it’s best to book your car online in advance through Localrent. This allows you to compare prices and choose the right vehicle.

During booking, you can select your preferred pickup location: Ushuaia Airport, delivery to your accommodation, or the rental office.

Driving tips for Ushuaia

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in Argentina, and its location creates some unique driving conditions.

Strong crosswinds along the coast

Gusts along the Beagle Channel can occur suddenly, especially during the day. They affect vehicle stability, particularly in lighter, higher-profile cars. Slow down and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel.

Bright sunlight

Due to the southern latitude, sunlight can be intense, especially in the morning and evening. Bring good sunglasses.

Animals on the road

Guanacos and other local wildlife often approach highways at dusk, when it’s cooler and traffic is lighter. Stay alert even if there are no warning signs.

Frequently asked questions about car rental in Ushuaia