Car Rental at Alfonso B. Aragon Airport (CLO) – Pickup, Prices, and Local Driving Tips

Arriving at Alfonso B. Aragon Airport (CLO) in Cali, Colombia, and planning to explore the region by car? Renting a vehicle offers fantastic freedom, but the process can feel a little different than what you’re used to. This guide covers everything from finding your rental desk to understanding the roads, helping you start your Colombian adventure smoothly.

Finding Your Rental Car

Rental car desks are generally located within the arrivals area of the airport. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Rental Cars’ after you collect your luggage. Most companies offer a shuttle service to an off-airport parking facility where the cars are kept, so be prepared for a short ride. Several well-known companies typically operate at Alfonso B. Aragon Airport, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, and Localiza. You’ll also find some Colombian-based rental options.

Popular Car Choices at CLO

The best car for you depends on your travel plans. For city driving and shorter trips, an economy or compact car is a good choice. If you’re heading into the mountains or plan to cover long distances, a larger vehicle like an SUV will be more comfortable. Here’s a general idea of what’s available:

Prices change by season and availability.

What You’ll Need to Rent

To rent a car in Colombia, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often recommended, especially if your license isn’t in Spanish. The minimum age is usually 21, but some companies may have higher age restrictions, and drivers under 25 may face additional fees. Be prepared to present your passport, driver’s license, and a valid credit card in the renter’s name. Rental companies will typically require a security deposit, which is held on your credit card and released upon the car’s safe return. Payment by debit card may be possible with some companies, but often comes with stricter requirements and may not be accepted for the deposit.

Understanding Your Insurance Options

Insurance can be a bit confusing. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers the vehicle if it’s stolen. Often, these are included in the base rental price, but with a high ‘excess’ – the amount you’d still be responsible for paying in case of damage or theft. You can reduce this excess by purchasing additional insurance at the rental desk. Carefully consider whether you need this extra coverage, and always read the terms and conditions before agreeing to anything. Your existing travel insurance or credit card benefits might already provide some coverage, so check those first.

Driving in Colombia: A Few Things to Know

Driving in Colombia requires a bit of awareness. Toll roads are common, especially on major highways, so keep some cash handy. Parking can be found in cities, but it’s often paid parking, and you should be mindful of security. Speed limits are generally posted in kilometers per hour. Roads in mountainous areas can be winding and narrow, so allow plenty of time for your journey. It’s always a good idea to avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas.