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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in La Serena
La Serena
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
La Serena
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
La Serena
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
La Serena
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Hire a Car in La Serena?
La Serena, Chile, is a captivating coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches, historic architecture, and proximity to the Elqui Valley, a world-famous stargazing destination. While local transport is available, hiring a car provides unparalleled freedom and flexibility to explore this diverse region at your own pace.
Explore the Elqui Valley. Hiring a car allows you to venture into the Elqui Valley, home to picturesque vineyards, pisco distilleries, and astronomical observatories, all easily accessible by car.
Beach Hopping Along the Coast. With a rental car, you can effortlessly explore the numerous beaches along the coastline, from the bustling Playa El Faro to more secluded spots.
Visit Historical Sites. Drive to nearby historical sites like the charming town of Vicuña and the colonial architecture of La Serena's city centre at your leisure.
Rental Terms and Conditions in La Serena
Before booking a hire car in La Serena, ensure you meet the necessary requirements and understand the rental terms to avoid any unexpected issues.
Area
Approximately 2,000 square kilometres
Population
Around 250,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT-4 (GMT-3 during summer)
Ideal for
Exploring the Elqui Valley and coastal regions
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during weekdays from 8 AM to 10 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car hire companies in La Serena require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driving licence is required. Foreign visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in Spanish or English. A passport is also typically required.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but you can opt for additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). A security deposit is required and will be refunded upon the safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others imposing restrictions. Fuel policies generally require you to return the car with the same amount of fuel as when you picked it up.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like GPS navigation, child seats, or additional drivers.
Car Hire Prices in La Serena – How Much Does It Cost?
The average daily rate for an economy-class car hire in La Serena is from £20 / $25 / €23.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €46
Electric:
from £30 / $38 / €35
Classic:
from £15 / $19 / €17
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €40
7 Seater:
from £45 / $56 / €52
Automatic:
from £25 / $31 / €29
SUV:
from £22 / $28 / €26
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to February): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand from tourists.
Low season (May to August): Discounts are often available during the off-season months.
Prices can fluctuate based on the time of year. Booking in advance and comparing offers can help you secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in La Serena?
Follow these steps to book a car rental in La Serena and ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better rates and vehicle availability by booking your hire car well in advance, especially during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driving licence, passport, and credit card when collecting your hire car.
General Information About La Serena
La Serena is a vibrant city with a rich history and stunning natural surroundings. Hiring a car is highly recommended to fully experience the region.
La Serena offers a unique blend of coastal charm and astronomical wonders, making it an ideal destination for travellers. As you explore La Serena by car, be mindful of local traffic regulations and parking availability.
Top Attractions to Discover
Playa El Faro
A popular beach known for its golden sands and clear waters.
Elqui Valley
A renowned stargazing destination with picturesque landscapes.
Japanese Garden
A tranquil garden offering a peaceful retreat.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several public parking garages are available in the city centre.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available, but be mindful of time limits and parking fees.
Parking Apps
Use parking apps to find and pay for parking.
Gas Stations in La Serena
Major Brands Available
You can find major gas station brands like Copec and Petrobras in La Serena.
Gas Stations on the Outskirts
Gas stations are readily available on the outskirts of the city and along major highways.
Fuel Up Before Heading to Remote Areas
Ensure you have enough fuel before venturing into the Elqui Valley.
Useful Tips for Visiting La Serena
Be Aware of Traffic
Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan your routes accordingly.
Carry Cash
While credit cards are widely accepted, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
Stay Hydrated
The climate can be dry, especially during the summer months, so stay hydrated.
Learn Basic Spanish
Knowing basic Spanish phrases can be helpful.
Key Transportation Hubs in La Serena
Major Bus Stations
La Serena Bus Terminal
The main bus terminal connects La Serena to various destinations throughout Chile.
Railway Stations
La Serena Railway Station
While passenger train services are limited, the station is still used for freight and occasional tourist trains.
Airports
La Serena Airport (LSC)
Also known as Aeropuerto La Florida, it serves domestic flights to Santiago and other Chilean cities.
What Do You Need to Hire a Car in La Serena?
To hire a car in La Serena, you will need to meet certain requirements.
You must possess a valid driving licence from your country of residence. An International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required for non-Spanish speaking countries.
Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some imposing surcharges for drivers under 25.
A major credit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or national ID card is required for identification purposes.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as La Serena as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Chill coastal vibes
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 18.09.2024
Pretty laid-back, yeah
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 27.04.2025
Peaceful La Serena coast; car rental a breeze.
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 20.03.2025
Summer in La Serena was incredible! Having a car let us easily explore the beaches and charming towns nearby. So much fun!
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 24.03.2025
Great stop on our road trip! La Serena was charming, and having a car made getting around so simple.
Benjamin Garcia
Reviewed: 01.08.2025
La Serena was perfect for a relaxing coastal getaway! Having a car made exploring so easy. Beautiful beaches and charming towns.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 10.12.2024