Rent A Car In San Juan, Argentina: Compare Deals And Drive More

Bring the right documents: Carry your passport (or national ID), a valid driver’s license, and the credit card used for the deposit. An International Driving Permit can be helpful if your license isn’t in Latin characters.

Understand deposits and coverage: Ask about the security deposit amount, deductible (excess), and what damage types are excluded (tires, glass, undercarriage). Consider coverage that matches the roads you’ll drive.

Plan fuel stops outside the city: Fuel stations can be sparse on longer drives (especially toward Valle Fértil/Ischigualasto and deep into Calingasta). Start each long day with a full tank and keep a buffer for detours.

Download offline maps and share your route: Mobile signal can drop in valleys and remote park areas. Download offline maps (Google Maps/Maps.me) and share your planned route and ETA with someone.

Pack for desert sun and big temperature swings: San Juan’s region can be very sunny and dry. Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and layers—mornings and evenings can feel much cooler than midday.

Drive defensively on rural roads: Watch for animals, cyclists, gravel shoulders, and sudden wind gusts. Avoid night driving on unfamiliar roads, especially on routes to parks and mountain valleys.

Start early for parks and viewpoints: Early departures mean cooler temperatures, better light for photos, and more time for guided circuits (common in protected areas). Build in extra time for checkpoints and park entry.