Rent a Car at La Serena Airport (LSC) – Quick Pickup & Great Rates
La Serena’s airport, officially called La Florida Airport, sits just 5 kilometres east of the city centre along Ruta 5 (the Pan-American Highway). It’s the main gateway to Chile’s northern coast and the famous Elqui Valley, a region known for clear skies, astronomical observatories, and some of the best stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether you’re heading to a beach town, a vineyard in the valley, or making the long drive up to Santiago, picking up a rental car right at the terminal is the most convenient way to get started.
The airport itself is relatively small but modern, with a single terminal handling both domestic arrivals and a few international flights. You’ll find car rental counters in the arrivals hall, so you can sign paperwork and grab your keys within minutes of collecting your luggage. Most major rental agencies operate here, and since La Serena is a popular tourist destination year-round, it’s worth booking ahead—especially during Chilean summer (December to February) and holidays when availability gets tight.
Picking Up Your Rental Car at La Serena Airport
Once you’ve cleared arrivals, you’ll see the rental car desks lined up on your left. The counters are just a short walk from the baggage claim, so you won’t be dragging your suitcase far. Most agencies include a free shuttle service to their nearby depot if the office isn’t directly in the terminal. The shuttle usually takes 5-10 minutes and runs every 15-20 minutes.
When you sign the rental agreement, double-check the fuel policy—most agencies offer a full-to-full policy, meaning you get the car with a full tank and return it full. There are several gasoline stations (called “bencinas”) along Ruta 5 just outside the airport, so it’s easy to fill up before you head into town. If you’re arriving late at night, it’s worth grabbing a tank before the rental office closes, as fuel stations in the area have limited hours outside peak times.
Pro tip: take photos of the car when you pick it up, especially the undercarriage and wheels. Chile’s roads, particularly in rural areas, can be rough, and you don’t want to be held responsible for damage you didn’t cause. Also, make sure the agent notes any existing scratches on the contract—it’s a small step that saves headaches later.
Where to Go from La Serena
Having your own wheels opens up the region. Here are some popular destinations with approximate driving times from La Serena Airport:
Coquimbo – Just 15 minutes north along Ruta 5. This port city has a relaxed vibe, great seafood restaurants along the waterfront, and the iconic Cruz del Tercer Milenio (a massive cross with panoramic views). Perfect for a half-day trip.
Pichidangui – About 1 hour 15 minutes south. This small beach town is a favourite for locals, with calm waters, colourful houses, and a laid-back atmosphere. Arrive early on weekends to snag a parking spot near the beach.
Vicuña – Roughly 1 hour 15 minutes east via Route 41. This charming town in the Elqui Valley is the birthplace of Nobel laureate Gabriela Mistral and home to several observatories. The Elqui Valley is also famous for its pisco distilleries—don’t miss a pisco sour at a local vineyard.
Ovalle – About 1 hour north via Ruta 5. A larger town with a weekly farmers’ market that’s worth visiting if you want to sample local produce and handicrafts. The surrounding area has some interesting archaeological sites.
Santiago – If you’re making the big trip south, expect around 5 to 5.5 hours (about 470 km) along Ruta 5. It’s a long drive but a scenic one, especially through the Atacama Desert region. Stop for coffee and empanadas in Vallenar or La Serena if you break up the journey.
Tips for Driving in Chile
Chile drives on the right side of the road, and speed limits are clearly marked. On Ruta 5, the speed limit is 120 km/h, dropping to 100 km/h on secondary highways and 60 km/h in urban areas. Speed cameras are common, and fines are hefty—stick to the limits, especially in small towns where police tend to be more vigilant with rental cars.
Toll booths (peajes) are located along Ruta 5 and other major highways. Most accept credit cards, but it’s smart to carry some cash (Chilean pesos) just in case. Toll costs add up—budget around 10,000-15,000 CLP for a one-way trip from La Serena to Santiago.
Fuel is priced similarly to Europe or the US, and diesel (petroleo) is usually cheaper than gasoline (bencina). Unleaded 95 and 98 are widely available, while diesel is common at larger stations. Fill up before heading into remote areas—the Elqui Valley has fewer stations, and distances between fuel stops can be significant.
One thing many visitors overlook: Chile’s summer sun is intense. If you’re renting a car with leather seats, throw a towel over the seatbelt or use the seat covers provided—the dashboard and seats can become dangerously hot. Also, keep sunglasses handy; the desert glare is real.
Finally, while Chile is generally safe, avoid leaving valuables visible in your car, especially at beach parking areas. Break-ins do happen, and rental cars are easy targets.
Ready to explore at your own pace? Book your rental car online today and skip the taxi queues. We offer competitive rates, transparent pricing, and free cancellation on most bookings. Your adventure in northern Chile starts with the right wheels—grab yours today!