Rent a Car at El Tepual International Airport (PMC)

Convenient Car Rental Pick-Up at El Tepual International Airport

El Tepual International Airport, known as PMC, keeps car pick-up straightforward. It has modern terminals, dedicated parking areas, and rental desks open around the clock. This setup lets you drive off quickly after your flight. A Chile car rental from here opens up Patagonia's lakes, volcanoes, and fjords without bus waits or taxi hunts.

Travelers choose PMC for its efficient service and prime spot near Puerto Montt's coastal charm. The airport lies 15 km south of the city, a gateway to southern Chile's wild landscapes, ideal for self-drive Patagonia trips.

Final Rentals provides simple online Chile car rental booking at El Tepual Airport. Reserve in advance, and your car is ready curbside, shifting you from runway to road trip instantly.

Nearest Places to Visit

Puerto Montt City Centre: 15 km north, about 20-25 minutes on Ruta 5. Wander the bustling Angelmo seafood market, stroll the waterfront promenade, and sample fresh empanadas amid fishing boats and mountain views.

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park: 60 km east, around 1 hour via the Petrohué road. Chile's oldest park boasts emerald lakes, dense forests, and hot springs—perfect for short hikes or boat rides to spot Andean condors soaring overhead.

Petrohué Waterfalls: 65 km northeast, 1 hour 10 minutes drive. Marvel at cascading turquoise waters amid volcanic basalt formations; easy trails lead to viewpoints, with picnic spots for a quick nature break en route to Osorno Volcano.

Osorno Volcano: 90 km northeast, about 1 hour 30 minutes on paved highways. Climb viewpoints for snow-capped summit panoramas and Llanquihue Lake vistas—great for photos, with nearby cable car rides for non-hikers.

Roads are well-maintained, but watch for rain-slick curves. A rental car allows flexible stops to capture southern Chile's raw beauty at your own pace.

About El Tepual International Airport (PMC)

Airport Code: IATA: PMC | ICAO: SCTE  

Location: 15 km south of Puerto Montt in the Los Lagos Region, serving as the main hub for Chilean Patagonia with a focus on tourism and regional flights.

Facilities & Services

PMC prioritizes comfort for arrivals. Alongside Chile car rentals, access free Wi-Fi throughout, ATMs for pesos, and currency exchange counters. Cafes serve local curanto stew and coffee, while shops offer souvenirs like wool crafts and Mapuche jewelry. The expanded terminal includes lounges with showers and a kids' play area for families.

Assistance for mobility needs is available, plus prayer rooms and clean restrooms. Short-term parking hugs the terminal; long-term lots are secure and affordable. PMC blends practicality with Patagonian warmth, smoothing your Chile car rental launch.

Car Hire at El Tepual Airport

Post customs, follow clear “Car Rental” signs to the Arrivals desks. Final Rentals partners deliver 24/7 Chile car rental with diverse fleets. On-site inspection covers tires, fuel, and features like heated seats for cool weather—aligning with your agreement.

Returns streamline with signed zones near the terminal; refuel at adjacent stations and use key drops for off-hours. Contracts outline full-to-full fuel and no unpaved roads. Final Rentals ensures transparent terms for stress-free Patagonia journeys.

Transportation Between the Airport and Local Areas

Driving: Ultimate for independence. Navigate Patagonia's 1,000+ km of fjords and parks—tailor routes to Petrohué or Chiloé Island, loading kayaks effortlessly.

Public Transport: Buses link to Puerto Montt hourly for low fares, but fixed schedules limit spontaneity for remote hikes.

Taxi / Ride-share: Airport taxis charge a fixed rate to town; apps like Uber operate but peak in summer, less ideal for groups with gear.

Car Rentals: Premier for Chile car rental liberty. Evade delays, dawn patrol lakesides, and cut costs on scenic detours via Final Rentals' options.

Other Features & Travel Tips

Driving Side: Right-hand drive, standard for Chile—familiar signage in Spanish and English aids navigation.

Speed Limits: 50 km/h in urban zones, 100 km/h rural, 120 km/h highways; strict enforcement with cameras.

Road Conditions: Paved Ruta 5 is reliable, but southern gravel needs caution—rent 4x4s for rain; no right-on-red.

Parking: Ample free parking at parks, paid in Puerto Montt centers—use meters or apps for hassle-free spots.

Fuel Costs: Unleaded only, stations are frequent along main routes—budget for long hauls to Coyhaique.

Busy Times: Summer (Dec-Mar) swells with tourists; book Chile car rentals early for availability amid festival crowds.

Toll Roads: Common on Ruta 5 north—tags available in rentals for seamless passes.

These ensure secure, scenic Chile drives. Layer for variable weather, and try roadside asados for local flavor.

Contact Information

Address: El Tepual International Airport, Ruta 5 Sur Km 15.5, Puerto Montt, Chile

Phone: +56 65 231 8000

Website: https://www.aeropuertotepual.cl/

How to Book Your Rental Car at El Tepual International Airport (PMC)

Step 1: Visit the Final Rentals website or download the app. Enter “El Tepual International Airport (PMC)” as collection point. View live stock with images.

Step 2: Select vehicles matching your Patagonia plans:

Economy/Compact from $20/day: Agile like Hyundai Accent for city zips and tight fjord parking.

Sedans: Comfortable Toyota Corolla for lake cruises with trunk space for rain gear.

SUVs and 4x4s: Toyota RAV4 from $35/day for gravel tracks to national parks and volcano bases.

Vans/7-Seaters: Kia Carnival for groups, ample for hiking packs and family fjord ferries.

Luxury/Premium cars: Audi A4 for refined drives amid Osorno's vistas.

Incorporate GPS for $5 or chains for $10 in winter—vital for misty Petrohué paths.

Step 3: Confirm with the driver's credit card; receive an immediate email with bay details.

Step 4: Scan conditions: Age 21+ (25 premium), liability included (upgrade $8/day zero excess), full fuel, unlimited km, no off-road penalties.

Step 5: At PMC, present license, passport, and voucher at the desk. Inspect for scuffs, document, and depart. Return to the lot, refuel, QR-scan for closure—effortless.

Final Rentals excels in Chile with pristine vehicles and insider routes. Travellers like you praise the affordability—up to 30% savings. From PMC's tarmac to Patagonia's glaciers, your drive awaits.

Ask More About Care Hire at El Tepual Airport

Where do I pick up my rental car at El Tepual Airport?

Rental car desks are located in the main arrivals hall of the terminal. Once you complete your paperwork, you’ll be directed to the parking area just outside where your car is ready. It's a small airport, so the walk from baggage claim to the car rental pickup point is quick and easy.

What documents do I need to rent a car at PMC Airport?

You'll need a valid driver's license, a passport or national ID, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your license is not in Spanish or English, some rental companies may ask for an International Driving Permit. It’s also helpful to bring your rental confirmation email or app booking.

Is renting a car at Puerto Montt Airport worth it?

Public transport in the region is limited and doesn't reach remote areas like the Lake District, Chiloé Island, or national parks. Renting a car at PMC gives you the freedom to explore Patagonia’s scenic landscapes, lakes, forests, and coastlines at your own pace — perfect for road trips and outdoor adventures.

How early should I book my car rental at El Tepual Airport?

Booking at least 1 to 2 weeks in advance is ideal, especially during Chile’s summer or holiday seasons. Early booking gives you better vehicle options, guaranteed availability, and better prices. Last-minute bookings can be more expensive and risk limited stock, especially for SUVs or family-sized vehicles.

What types of cars are available for rent at PMC Airport?

You'll find a range of vehicles, including compact cars for solo travelers, sedans for comfort, SUVs for mountain roads, and vans for families or groups. Since the region includes gravel roads and rural areas, many travelers prefer SUVs with higher clearance and better road handling.

Are rental cars at El Tepual Airport manual or automatic?

Both are available, but manual transmission cars are more common in Chile. If you need an automatic car, it’s important to book early and specify your preference. Automatic cars tend to be in limited supply and may not always be available for last-minute bookings.

Can I return the car outside office hours at PMC Airport?

Most rental companies offer after-hours drop-off. You’ll park the car in the designated area and leave the keys in a secure drop box. Always confirm this option when you pick up the car and ask for clear instructions to avoid confusion during return.

Is insurance included with car rentals at El Tepual Airport?

Basic third-party insurance is usually included, but it may not cover damage to the rental car itself. You can add extra coverage, like collision damage waiver or theft protection, at the counter. It's wise to review your travel insurance or credit card benefits, too, as some may cover rental cars.

Are there fuel stations near Puerto Montt Airport?

The nearest fuel stations are along Route 226 and the road to the Puerto Montt city center. Since most rental companies operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, it’s easy to refuel before returning. Be sure to keep the fuel receipt as proof, especially for early morning or late-night returns.

Can I drive my rental car from Puerto Montt to Chiloé Island?

You can take your rental car on the ferry to Chiloé Island. The ferry ride is short, and most rental companies allow it, but you should always notify them in advance. Ferry fees are not included in your rental, and some companies may require written permission.

What are the driving rules I should know in southern Chile?

Drive on the right side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory, and headlights must be on at all times, even during the day. Many rural roads are unpaved, so drive slowly in wet or foggy conditions. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour, and police checks are common.

What’s the minimum age to rent a car at El Tepual Airport?

Most rental companies require the driver to be at least 22 years old and to have held a license for at least 12 months. Some may charge a young driver fee for drivers under 25. Always confirm age requirements before booking to avoid surprises.

Do rental cars at PMC Airport have GPS or Wi-Fi?

GPS units or portable Wi-Fi devices are usually available for an extra fee. It's recommended to pre-book them if you’re planning to explore remote areas with limited cell coverage. Alternatively, you can download offline maps or use apps with downloaded routes before your trip.

Can I take the rental car across borders into Argentina?

Some rental companies allow cross-border travel to Argentina, but it requires advance approval and extra paperwork. You must inform the company when booking and allow time for documentation. Additional fees apply, and the vehicle must meet customs and insurance requirements for both countries.

What should I check before leaving the airport with the rental car?

Always inspect the vehicle for scratches, dents, or windshield chips. Make sure the fuel tank is full if your agreement says so. Check lights, tires, and brakes. Ask how tolls, road assistance, and emergencies are handled. Take photos of the car before driving off for your own record.