Car rental in Calama

Calama is a city in northern Chile, situated at an altitude of over 2,200 metres above sea level. It is often referred to as the gateway to the attractions of the Atacama Desert. Renting a car in Calama gives you the freedom to reach the most fascinating locations without relying on public transport schedules or group tours.

Enjoy comfortable access to vast desert plains, pristine salt flats, and picturesque lagoons. Plan your trip at your own pace, stop whenever you like, capture stunning photos, and change your route on the go.

Benefits of Renting with Localrent

Localrent is a service that connects you with local car rental companies in Calama, offering the best deals and prices. By choosing us, you enjoy the following benefits:

1. Transparent pricing. The total cost is displayed upfront at the booking stage. All fees and charges are included — no hidden payments when you pick up the keys.
2. Low deposits. Find offers with minimal security deposits in Calama, significantly reducing the financial burden on your travel budget. Deposit-free options are also available.
3. Small advance payment. To secure your preferred vehicle, simply pay just 15–20% of the total rental cost by card.
4. Handy filters. Use the Localrent website to search and sort offers by transmission type, deposit amount, vehicle class, and more.
5. Customer support. Reach the Localrent team via messenger, live chat, or email for any questions throughout your rental period and even after it ends.

What You Need to Rent a Car

To rent a car in Calama, you will need:

• A valid driving licence (category B)
• A passport
• A bank card for the advance payment

Please note the age and driving experience requirements, which vary depending on the selected vehicle. Up-to-date information is provided on each car’s listing page.

Traffic Rules and Road Conditions in Calama

Traffic regulations in Calama, as in Chile overall, are fairly straightforward. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

• Right-hand traffic with overtaking on the left.
• Road quality. The highway from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama is well-paved with clear lane markings. However, some remote attractions are accessed via unpaved gravel roads. Driving on these roads is not permitted under standard rental terms.
• Speed limits. The standard limit in built-up areas is 40–60 km/h, while on highways and motorways it ranges from 100 to 120 km/h. Always watch for road signs, as they take priority over general rules.
• Dipped headlights are required on motorways at all times, regardless of daylight conditions.
• Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers in both front and rear seats.
• Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free device.
• Be aware that wildlife frequently crosses roads in rural areas and on open highways. The risk is especially high at night, so extra caution is essential when driving after dark.
• Children under 12 (or shorter than 150 cm) must be secured in an appropriate child seat or booster.

Fuel Stations

Calama has a sufficient number of petrol stations. They typically operate around the clock and accept both cash and bank cards.

However, there are no fuel stations on the way to San Pedro de Atacama or near many other desert attractions. Always fill up before setting out on long-distance routes and keep a close eye on your fuel gauge.

Parking

The city offers paid municipal parking areas. Conditions may vary by district, so always check nearby signs to avoid fines. When parking on the street in Calama, avoid leaving valuables visible inside the car. There are also paid underground car parks that provide a convenient and safe option for extended stays.

Hotels frequently offer complimentary parking for their guests. Parking near popular attractions is usually free of charge as well.

How to Book a Car in Calama

Localrent offers a quick and straightforward booking process for affordable car rental in Calama:

1. Set your rental dates. Use filters to narrow down the options. You can select a vehicle by class, payment terms, transmission type, and other preferences.
2. Review the vehicle listing. Here you will find technical specifications, rental terms, and insurance details. At this stage, you can add optional extras (usually at an additional cost): a second driver, a child seat suited to your child’s age, and more. Available extras and their prices depend on the chosen vehicle.
3. Enter your booking details. Specify the pick-up and drop-off location and time, along with the primary driver’s personal information and contact details. At this point, you will see the final rental price, including the advance payment, deposit, and all selected extras.
4. Make the advance payment. To confirm the booking, pay 15–20% of the total by card. The remaining balance is due when you collect the keys in Calama, payable by card or cash (check the specific terms on the vehicle listing).
5. Receive your booking confirmation. A voucher with full order details and the rental company’s contact information will be sent to your email. Print it out or save it on your phone to present when collecting the car.
   

Places to Visit by Car

Here are some recommended destinations for day trips from Calama:

1. Chiu-Chiu — a historic highland village founded in the 12th century. It is known for the oldest stone church in the region, the Church of San Francisco, dating back to the 17th century. Nearby you will find the Lasana Fortress and the scenic Inca Coya Lake.
2. San Pedro de Atacama — a small town regarded as the starting point for exploring the Atacama Desert. Highlights include the historic Church of San Pedro and the archaeological museum. Browse the local market for alpaca wool souvenirs and try dishes seasoned with the regional herb rica-rica at one of the restaurants.
3. Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) — a landscape of massive sand dunes and salt formations that “sing” (crackle) due to temperature changes. The Gran Duna viewpoint is the perfect spot to watch the sunset and marvel at the rocks shifting from gold to deep crimson.
4. Toconao — a quintessential Andean village with houses built from white volcanic stone, surrounded by lush gardens set against desert scenery. Stroll around the main square, visit the 18th-century church and bell tower, and explore local artisan workshops.
5. Antofagasta — a major Pacific coast city. Walk along the waterfront and the central Plaza de Colón, visit the Regional Museum, and stop by the Central Market for tropical fruits from local oases. Just north of the city lies La Portada, the region’s iconic natural stone arch rising from the ocean.

Where to Pick Up Your Rental Car in Calama

You can choose the pick-up location when booking online. Different rental companies may have their own collection points. Available options include:

• El Loa Airport (CJC)
• Rental company office
• Delivery to a specified address (e.g. your hotel)

To collect the car at the most convenient location, use the “Specify location” filter.

Useful Tips for Renting a Car in Calama

When travelling in and around Calama, keep in mind several important factors related to the region’s geography and climate.

Plan Your Travel Times

We recommend setting out early in the morning, when winds are light and temperatures are moderate. The morning light is also ideal for photography. Aim to return before dark, and remember the risk of wildlife on the roads at night.

Watch Out for Wind

Dust and strong crosswinds are common on open desert roads and can drastically reduce visibility. Maintain a safe following distance and stay alert. In strong gusts, car doors can be ripped from your hands, potentially causing damage and dents.

Allow Time to Acclimatise

Avoid planning high-altitude excursions on your first day. Calama itself is already at a high elevation, and many attractions sit even higher above sea level. Altitude sickness can easily occur in the Atacama Desert. Give your body time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels so you can enjoy the scenery without any adverse effects on your health.

Frequently Asked Questions