Car Rental in Ecuador for Chilean Travelers

Embarking on a journey to Ecuador from Chile is an exciting adventure enriched with diverse landscapes and unique experiences. Renting a car in Ecuador will give you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace.
If you're traveling from Chile, you might wonder:

Is my Chilean driver's license valid in Ecuador?
What documents are necessary for renting a car?
How can I find rental companies with affordable rates?
Are long-distance and one-way rentals accessible in Ecuador?
What should I know about Ecuadorian traffic laws and road conditions?

This guide will provide clear and practical answers to these questions, preparing you to enjoy driving through Ecuador without any hassles. At the end, you'll also find a recapitulative section summarizing all the key points for easier planning.

Can Japanese Citizens Drive in the Netherlands?

Yes, Japanese travelers can legally drive in the Netherlands with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• EU/EEA Driving License.
Notes: Domestic driving licenses from some countries are restricted in Netherlands, please refer to the following links：https://www.sixt.global/php/terms/view?liso=NL&rtar=000&view=EPP&tlang=en_GB&style=typo3 (Then click 'LINK' to view specific terms)
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, Discover, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 19-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 29.47 per day.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore your options among reputable global chains and reliable local providers. Each offers distinct advantages for travelers from CL visiting EC.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
31
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong presence in Europe
- Loyalty program available
- 24/7 customer support
- Eco-friendly vehicle options
Best for
Leisure travelers and corporate clients
Keddy by Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
17
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental options
- Easy online booking
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
17
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Quick and easy rental process
- Wide selection of vehicles
- Competitive pricing
- No hidden fees
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
16
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- 24/7 customer service
- User-friendly mobile app
- Variety of vehicle categories
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and convenience
Budget
global
8.5
Locations:
28
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Flexible rental options
- Rewards program for frequent renters
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
GOLDCAR
global
8.5
Locations:
16
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide variety of vehicle options
- 24/7 customer service
- Flexible pickup and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and long-term rentals

Nazcar Rent A Car
local
8.5
Locations:
0
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized customer service
- Flexible rental terms
- Local knowledge and support
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and those seeking local expertise

Recommendations for Travelers from CL

Choose Global Chains If:

First-time renting in EC
Require extensive nationwide coverage
Prefer 24/7 customer service availability
Traveling for business or crucial purposes

Choose Local Brands If:

Looking for cost-effective options
Planning to stay primarily within urban areas
Seeking distinctive vehicle selections
Comfortable with app-based rental services and localized support

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most drivers from Chile prefer automatic for Ecuador road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Chilean insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Quito, Guayaquil
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Galapagos, Cuenca

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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Popular Destinations in Ecuador

Ecuador boasts stunning landscapes and cities rich in culture and history. Explore destinations like Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca, or traverse the breathtaking Andes and Amazon regions.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Ecuador, but for peace of mind during your trip, additional coverage is highly recommended. Insurance options may vary depending on the rental company, and understanding what’s included can help avoid unexpected costs.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car in case of collision or theft.
CLP 12,000-20,000/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Protects against losses from theft of the rental vehicle.
CLP 4,000-6,500/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability (TPL)
Covers damages or injuries caused to third parties and their property.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Provides coverage for medical expenses for the driver and passengers.
CLP 3,000-5,000/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Ecuador. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Insurance Coverage Comparison

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$1,000.00 - $15,000.00

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$1,000.00 - $12,622.85

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Car Rentals: Tips for Chilean Travelers in Ecuador

Smart planning and practical choices can help Chilean travelers save significantly when renting a car in Ecuador. Consider these money-saving strategies to make the most of your trip.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Plan and Book Early
Secure your rental car at least 3-4 weeks prior to your trip to snag lower prices and ensure vehicle availability.
Save up to 25% on base rates
Use Comparison Platforms
Check aggregator websites like Rentalcars.com and QEEQ to compare prices across multiple rental companies.
Save around 15-30% through deals
Opt for the Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Pick rental companies that offer a full-to-full fuel policy, and refuel at local stations before returning the vehicle.
Avoid excess fuel charges, saving $20-40
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Verify if your credit card or travel insurance covers car rental insurance, so you can skip overpriced options at the counter.
Save $10-15 per day on insurance
Avoid One-Way Fees
Whenever possible, plan your trip to return the car to the same location to avoid costly one-way rental fees.
Save up to $50-$100

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Ecuador.

Hidden Fees
Be vigilant about additional charges that aren't included in the quoted price.
- Airport surcharges may apply
- Additional fees for young or extra drivers
- Charges for optional accessories (GPS, child seats)
- Roadside assistance fees
- Extra charges for returning the car to a different location
Insurance Options
Understand the insurance coverage before making a decision.
- Verify if your personal or credit card insurance covers rentals in Ecuador
- Assess rental company's basic insurance coverage
- Avoid purchasing unnecessary add-ons
- Clarify deductibles and exclusions
Driving Conditions
Ecuador's terrain and road conditions require careful planning.
- Mountainous areas may have challenging roads
- Rain can affect driving conditions
- Check for road closures or construction ahead of time
- Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws
Fuel Policies
Clarify the fuel return policy to avoid extra charges.
- Full-to-full policy is typically more cost-effective
- Prepaid fuel options can be more expensive
- Locate nearby fuel stations before returning the car
- Keep fuel purchase receipts for records
Pre-Rental Inspection
Inspect the car thoroughly to avoid disputes later.
- Document pre-existing damage with photos
- Check tires, lights, and any accessories
- Confirm the fuel level and mileage noted on the agreement
Pickup and Return Times
Timing can impact the rental cost and convenience.
- Adhere to pickup and return times to avoid extra charges
- Confirm the rental office hours
- Understand grace periods for late returns

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Differences and Similarities Between Chilean and Ecuadorian Traffic Rules

Chilean and Ecuadorian traffic regulations differ in aspects such as speed limits, road signage, and alcohol tolerances, while sharing similarities in seatbelt usage and mobile phone restrictions.

Speed Limits
EC
Urban areas: 50 km/h, Highways: 100 km/h
CL
Urban areas: 60 km/h, Highways: 120 km/h
Alcohol Consumption
EC
Maximum BAC: 0.03%
CL
Maximum BAC: 0.05%
Signage
EC
Uses international symbols, fewer signs in rural areas
CL
Consistent use of Spanish language and symbols
Mobile Phone Use
EC
Hands-free devices only while driving
CL
Hands-free devices only while driving
Seatbelt Laws
EC
Mandatory for all passengers
CL
Mandatory for all passengers
Traffic Light Compliance
EC
Strict adherence required, high penalties for violations
CL
Similar enforcement of traffic light rules
Remember
- • Always carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents.
- • Be cautious of varying road conditions, especially in rural areas.
- • Respect local customs and driving habits for a safe journey.
- • Familiarize yourself with local road signs and markings.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Chile renting a car in Ecuador

As a Chilean traveler, what documents do I need to rent a car in Ecuador?

You need three main documents: your valid Chilean driver's license (no international permit required), your national ID or passport, and a credit card in your name with sufficient available funds for the security deposit.

Is my Chilean driver's license valid in Ecuador or do I need an International Driving Permit?

Your Chilean license is fully valid for driving in Ecuador as a tourist for up to 90 days. An International Driving Permit is not required, though it can help in case of misunderstandings with local authorities.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Ecuador?

Most agencies require drivers to be at least 25. Some accept drivers aged 21-24 but usually charge a daily 'young driver' fee.

What type of vehicle should I rent for traveling around Ecuador? Is a 4x4 necessary?

For main cities and highways, a sedan or small SUV is sufficient. For trips to the Amazon, rural Andean roads, or certain beaches with dirt access, a high-clearance SUV or 4x4 is highly recommended.

Should I book my rental car from Chile or wait until I arrive in Ecuador?

It's best and usually cheaper to book in advance from Chile. Platforms like QEEQ let you compare prices and availability from multiple agencies, ensuring better deals especially in high season.

Can I take a rental car from Ecuador across the border to Colombia or Peru?

No, rental cars from Ecuador cannot be taken out of the country. Insurance is invalid outside Ecuador and doing so risks serious legal and financial trouble.

How reliable are local Ecuadorian rental agencies compared to international chains?

International chains usually offer newer cars and standardized processes, while local agencies may provide lower prices and personalized service. Always check reviews on travel forums and use platforms like QEEQ to compare both.

Can I pick up a rental car in Quito and return it in Guayaquil? Is there an extra charge?

Yes, this is known as a 'one-way' rental and is common. It always incurs a significant drop-off fee, usually between $50 and $150 USD.

Is US Dollar the official currency in Ecuador and will my Chilean cards work?

Yes, the US Dollar is Ecuador’s official currency. Chilean credit and debit cards work fine, but notify your bank about your trip to avoid security blocks.

What should I consider when planning a driving route through the Ecuadorian Andes?

Andean geography means winding roads and significant altitude changes; distances can be misleading. Plan for slower travel (50-60 km/h on mountain roads) and be prepared for altitude sickness if coming from sea level.

What does the base rental price online usually include?

The base price typically covers the rental period, unlimited mileage (check this), and mandatory basic insurance. It does NOT include 12% VAT, airport fees, fuel, tolls, or optional insurances.

What is CDW or LDW insurance and is it mandatory?

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) limits your financial liability for vehicle damage. Most Ecuadorian agencies make it mandatory and include it in their rates. Check the deductible amount carefully.

Does my Chilean credit card (Visa/Mastercard Platinum/Black) car rental insurance cover me in Ecuador?

Possibly, but confirm with your bank if coverage applies in Ecuador and follow required procedures (like declining agency CDW and paying fully with the card). Bring a printed confirmation letter. Some agencies may still require you to buy their insurance.

What is the security deposit and how much will be blocked on my card?

It's an amount blocked (not charged) on your credit card to cover damages, fines, or missing fuel. It ranges from $500 to over $2,000 USD depending on vehicle type and chosen insurances. Lower deposits usually apply if you take all agency insurances.

Is there a way to completely eliminate the deductible?

Yes, many agencies offer 'Super CDW' or zero-deductible insurance for an additional daily fee. This can be costly but provides peace of mind by removing your financial responsibility for damage.

What additional insurances might be offered and which are recommended?

You may be offered PAI (Personal Accident Insurance) and SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance). SLI is recommended as it increases third-party liability coverage. PAI may be unnecessary if you already have good travel insurance.

Are taxes included in the final rental price?

Usually not in the initial quote. Always add 12% VAT to the total and ask if the price is 'all taxes included'.

Are there common hidden charges I should watch for?

Yes: airport surcharges, additional driver fees, young driver fees, drop-off fees for different cities, and cleaning fees for excessively dirty returns. Always read the fine print.

Is it worth renting a GPS or is my smartphone enough?

With a local SIM card or roaming, Waze and Google Maps work very well in Ecuador and are better than most rental GPS units. Save money and buy a local SIM (Claro or Movistar) upon arrival.

How much does gasoline cost in Ecuador and which type should I use?

Gasoline is much cheaper than in Chile. There are three types: 'Súper' (best quality), 'Extra,' and 'Ecopaís' (lower octane). 'Súper' is recommended for most rentals. Always confirm with your agency.

What is the process for picking up a car at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO)?

Most rental desks are inside the arrivals hall. Some local agencies use a 'meet and greet' service and shuttle you to their nearby office. Check your reservation for details.

What should I carefully inspect on the car before signing the rental contract?

Take your time: record a video and photos of the car. Check for scratches, dents, damage to bumpers and wheels, tire tread (including the spare), cleanliness, AC, radio, lights, and ensure all documents (registration, SOAT insurance) are present and valid.

How important is it to check the spare tire and tools?

It's crucial, especially in rural areas. Make sure the spare is inflated and the jack and wrench are present. Refuse the car if any of these are missing.

What if I find unreported damage during inspection?

Do not leave the lot. Call an agency employee to add the damage to the inspection form, and ensure both of you sign off. Take a photo with the employee present if needed.

Should I fully understand the rental contract before signing?

Absolutely. Ask for clear explanations of key points: deductible amount, insurance coverage and exclusions, fuel policy, and emergency contact numbers.

Will the car be supplied with a full tank?

Standard policy is 'full-to-full'—receive the car with a full tank and return it full. Check the gauge before leaving.

How do tolls (peajes) work in Ecuador?

Most tolls are paid in cash at booths. A few cars may have an electronic pass for Quito highways, but this is rare. Always carry small bills and coins ($1, $5 USD).

What should I do if the agency pressures me to buy extra insurance I don't want?

Firmly but politely decline. Show written proof of your credit card’s coverage if applicable. If pressure is excessive, consider another agency, though this may be hard if your booking is prepaid.

Will I receive an emergency or roadside assistance number?

Yes, the agency must provide a 24/7 emergency assistance number. Save it and ask exactly what the service covers (breakdowns, flat tires, towing, etc.).

Do I need to register an additional driver if my partner will drive too?

Yes, anyone who will drive must be registered and present their license. Unregistered drivers void insurance in case of an accident. There’s usually a daily fee for extra drivers.

What’s the general condition of Ecuador’s main highways like the Panamericana (E35)?

The Panamericana is usually in very good condition, paved and well-marked. However, expect fog, heavy rain, sharp curves in mountains, and potential landslides during the rainy season (October–May).

What are the speed limits in Ecuador?

Typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural/peripheral roads, and 100–110 km/h on highways. Speed cameras are common, especially near cities, and fines are steep.

How do I pay tolls on Ecuadorian highways?

Tolls are mostly paid in cash at booths—costs are low, usually $0.50 to $2.00 USD per toll. Keep small bills and coins handy.

What should I do if stopped by Ecuadorian traffic police?

Stay calm and polite. Show your license, passport, and car documents. Never offer bribes. If accused of an infraction, request to see evidence and ask for an official citation (boleta de citación); you can pay it later. Only show, not hand over, original documents.

Is it safe to drive at night in Ecuador?

It's generally unsafe, especially on rural or secondary roads. Poor lighting, animals, unlit vehicles, and increased crime risk are concerns. Plan to arrive before dark (around 6:30 PM year-round).

How do Ecuadorians typically drive?

The driving style can be more aggressive and unpredictable than in Chile. Expect unexpected overtaking, little use of turn signals, and buses stopping anywhere. Drive defensively and with patience.

What precautions should I take when driving in big cities like Quito or Guayaquil?

Traffic can be chaotic. Use Waze to avoid jams, watch out for motorbikes, keep windows up and doors locked at lights, especially after dark.

Are there special driving restrictions like Santiago's 'vehicle restriction' system?

Yes, Quito has 'Pico y Placa,' restricting vehicles based on license plate numbers during peak hours. Rental cars with out-of-province or tourist plates are often exempt, but always confirm current rules with your agency.

Is parking easy to find and is it safe to leave the car on the street?

In cities and tourist towns, use paid and guarded parking lots. Avoid street parking overnight. Never leave valuables visible, even briefly—store them in the trunk before arrival.

How dangerous are speed bumps ('lomos de toro') in Ecuador?

They are everywhere, often unmarked or poorly painted, and can be extremely high. Slow down near villages to avoid damaging the car's suspension.

What should I do after a minor traffic accident?

Do not move the car. Call the rental agency’s emergency number for guidance. Take photos of the scene, damage, and the other vehicle’s documents. Do not admit fault or make private settlements—wait for instructions.

What if the accident is serious and there are injuries?

Safety is the priority. Call Ecuador’s national emergency number (911) for an ambulance and police, then notify the rental agency. Do not move the injured unless there’s immediate danger.

What if I get a flat tire on the road?

Stop safely. Call the rental agency’s roadside assistance. If confident, you can change the tire yourself, but assistance is available. Get the flat fixed at the nearest repair shop before returning the car.

I received a traffic ticket. How do I pay it?

Tickets are usually payable at authorized banks. However, the easiest way is to inform the rental agency at return—they’ll pay and deduct the amount (plus a small fee) from your security deposit.

What if the car breaks down?

Call the agency’s roadside assistance immediately. Do not try to repair it yourself or use unauthorized mechanics, as this can void your contract. The agency must provide a solution or a replacement car.

Do I need to wash the car before returning it?

Not unless it's excessively dirty inside or out (e.g., mud, sand, stained upholstery). Otherwise, normal use dirt is acceptable, but deep cleaning charges apply for heavy soiling.

What is the car return process and how early should I arrive?

Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early, especially at airports. An employee will inspect for new damage and check the fuel level.

What if I return the car with less than a full tank?

The agency will charge you for the missing fuel at a much higher rate than a gas station, plus a refueling service fee. It's cheaper to refill it yourself right before return.

When will my credit card security deposit be released?

The block is usually lifted a few days after return, once the agency confirms there are no outstanding charges. The process takes 5–15 business days depending on your bank and the agency.

What final document should I receive for peace of mind after returning the car?

Obtain a final contract or receipt stating the car was returned without issues and the contract is closed. Request a printed copy or have it emailed to you before you leave.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Ecuador for Chilean Travelers

Embarking on a journey to Ecuador from Chile is an exciting adventure enriched with diverse landscapes and unique experiences. Renting a car in Ecuador will give you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. If you're traveling from Chile, you might wonder:

Can Japanese Citizens Drive in the Netherlands?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Travelers from CL

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Popular Destinations in Ecuador

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals: Tips for Chilean Travelers in Ecuador

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Differences and Similarities Between Chilean and Ecuadorian Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Embarking on a journey to Ecuador from Chile is an exciting adventure enriched with diverse landscapes and unique experiences. Renting a car in Ecuador will give you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace.
If you're traveling from Chile, you might wonder: