Car Rental at San Rafael Airport (AFA) – Pickup, Prices, and Local Driving Tips

Arriving at San Rafael Airport (AFA) and planning to explore the region? Renting a car offers the freedom to discover the vineyards, mountains, and natural beauty of San Rafael and Mendoza Province at your own pace. This guide provides essential information for a smooth car rental experience.

Pickup Locations: Most car rental desks are located within the airport terminal building itself, making access convenient upon arrival. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Rental Cars’ after baggage claim. Some companies may operate a shuttle service to an off-airport facility, so check your confirmation details.

Required Documents: To rent a car in Argentina, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s license from your home country, and often an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if your license isn’t in Spanish. A valid passport is also essential. Be prepared to present these documents at the rental counter.

Age and Credit Cards: The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, though some companies may have a higher age requirement, and drivers under 25 may face additional fees. A major credit card in the renter’s name is required for the security deposit. Debit cards are often not accepted. Ensure your credit card has sufficient available credit to cover the rental cost plus the deposit.

Insurance: Rental rates usually don’t include insurance. You’ll be offered options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection, and Personal Accident Insurance. Check if your existing travel insurance or credit card provides coverage before purchasing additional insurance from the rental company.

Fuel Policy: Common fuel policies include ‘full to full’ (return the car with a full tank) and ‘full to empty’ (pay for a full tank upfront and return it empty). Understand the policy before you drive off the lot to avoid unexpected charges.

One-Way Rentals: One-way rentals, where you pick up the car at San Rafael Airport and drop it off at a different location, are often possible but may incur a significant surcharge. Confirm availability and the associated fee when booking.

Add-ons: Consider adding extras like a child seat if traveling with young children, a GPS navigation system (though mobile data and map apps are widely available), or an additional driver to share the driving responsibilities.

Driving in Argentina: Argentina has a network of toll roads, particularly on major highways. Have some Argentine pesos available for toll payments. Parking regulations vary by city; pay attention to signage. Speed limits are generally posted in kilometers per hour. Be aware that driving styles can be assertive, so maintain a safe following distance and be prepared for unexpected maneuvers. Always prioritize safety and be mindful of local traffic conditions.

Please note: Prices are estimates and can vary significantly depending on the season, availability, and specific rental company.

For a seamless travel experience, consider booking your flights and ground transportation together. Planning your entire trip in one place can save you time and ensure a coordinated itinerary.