Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Fuel
Nafta
(gas) prices are more expensive than the US. Avoid
común
(regular) as it's usually
low quality. Super and premium are better choices. In Patagonia gas prices are about a
third less than elsewhere.
Estaciones de servicio
(gas stations) are fairly common, but
outside the cities keep an eye on your gas gauge. In Patagonia it's a good idea to carry
extra fuel.
Insurance
Liability insurance is obligatory in Argentina, and police ask to see proof of insurance at
checkpoints. If you plan on taking the car to neighboring countries, make sure it will re-
main covered (you'll have to pay extra). Among the reputable insurers in Argentina are
Mapfre
(
www.mapfre.com.ar
) and
ACA
(
www.aca.org.ar
) .
Rental
To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years of age and have a credit card and valid
driver's license from your country. Agencies rarely ask for an International Driving Permit.
When you rent a vehicle find out how many kilometers are included. Unlimited-kilometer
deals exist but are usually much more expensive, depending on the destination.
Reserving a car with one of the major international agencies in your home country often
gets you lower rates; you can also try online sites like
www.despegar.com
or
www.webcarhire.com.
One of the cheapest places to rent a car is Bariloche; if you're heading to Patagonia for
example, this is a good place to rent. Taking a rental car out of Argentina is not usually al-
lowed.
For motorcycle rentals, you must be at least 25 years of age and head to
Motocare
(
4761-2696;
www.motocare.com.ar/rental
; Echeverria 738, Vicente Lopez) located in
Buenos Aires or Neuquén. Honda Transalps 700 are available; bring your own helmet
and riding gear. For driving outside big cities only.
Purchase
Purchasing a vehicle in Argentina can be complicated for foreigners. This usually involves
having a permanent local address, obtaining a CDI (a tax ID number) and paying for the
vehicle in cash. To buy a used vehicle, you must transfer the title at a title transfer office,
with the current owner and all his/her proper papers present. Make sure all licenses, un-
paid tickets and taxes have been paid.
Speaking Spanish helps. Getting insurance without a DNI (national document) can be
difficult but not impossible. As a foreigner without a DNI you may own a vehicle in Argen-
tina; however, you theoretically cannot take it out of the country without a notarized au-
thorization, which can be difficult to obtain.
It's wise to supplement this information with your own current research.
