Car Rental in Peru for UK Travelers

Planning a road trip in Peru can be an exhilarating experience, offering diverse landscapes and incredible cultural adventures.
If you're traveling from the United Kingdom, you might be wondering:

Is my UK driver's license valid in Peru?
What kind of rental insurance should I consider?
What are the general costs of renting a car in Peru?
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
What should I know about Peruvian traffic regulations?

This guide covers all these important aspects comprehensively, ensuring you have the details necessary for a worry-free experience. Refer to the summary section at the end for a quick recap of key points.

Can British Citizens Drive in Peru?

Yes, British travelers can legally drive in Peru 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).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, Discover, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-21 may incur a fee of US$ 20.00 per day, while those aged 21-24 may incur a fee of US$ 14.00 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 top global chains and innovative local car rental companies for your journey in PE. Both offer unique benefits tailored to different travel preferences and needs.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
10
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
23
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide selection of vehicles
- Affordable rates
- 24/7 customer service
- Easy online booking
Best for
Travelers looking for quality and value
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
15
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Excellent customer service
- Easy online booking
- Flexible rental options
- Free additional driver for members
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Budget
global
8.5
Locations:
15
Prices:
$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Variety of cars from economy to SUVs
- Flexible rental options
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
29
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong presence in over 140 countries
- Excellent customer service
- Loyalty program with discounts
- Online booking and management
Best for
Leisure travelers and business rentals
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
9
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Keddy by Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
9
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Convenient locations across the country
- Strong customer support
- Easy online booking system
- Competitive pricing
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

Wellas
local
8.5
Locations:
1
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicle options
- Local knowledge and support
- Quick and easy booking process
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers
America Car Rental
local
8.5
Locations:
6
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
- Competitive pricing
- Exclusive local deals
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local excursions

Recommendations for Travelers from GB to PE

Choose Global Chains If:

You are visiting PE for the first time.
You require extensive coverage across regions.
You value round-the-clock customer service.
Your trip includes significant business or formal commitments.

Choose Local Brands If:

You are looking for cost-effective options.
Your stay is concentrated in urban areas of PE.
You seek unique or specialized vehicle options.
You are comfortable with app-based or digital-first services.

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 prefer automatic for USA 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 GB 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
Lima, Arequipa, Cusco
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Andean highways, coastal routes
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Sacred Valley, Paracas, Colca Canyon

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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What Are the Popular Destinations in Peru?

Peru offers a blend of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities. Explore iconic destinations like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, each offering unique cultural experiences and travel opportunities.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Peru, but for peace of mind on your trip, additional coverage is highly recommended. Insurance policies can vary, so understanding the options available for your rental is crucial to avoid unexpected costs.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car in case of a collision or theft.
£12-20/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Provides coverage in the event of vehicle theft.
£4-7/day
Essential
Third Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages or injuries to third parties and their property.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers in case of accidents.
£4-8/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 Peru. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$1,000.00 - $7,700.00

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$1,200.00 - $7,700.00

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 in Peru?

Smart planning and careful selection can help travelers from the UK save significantly when renting a car in Peru. From timing your bookings to understanding local rental policies, there are several ways to reduce costs.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book in Advance
Plan and reserve your car rental at least 3-5 weeks before your trip to secure lower rates and better vehicle options.
Save up to 20%
Compare Rental Companies
Use platforms like Rentalcars.com or Kayak to compare prices and policies of major car rental providers in Peru.
Save up to 25%
Opt for Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Choose a rental company that offers the full-to-full fuel option and refill at local, low-cost petrol stations before returning the car.
Save £15-35
Avoid Airport Pickups
Rent your car from a city center location instead of the airport to avoid additional location surcharges.
Save £10-20 per day
Use Credit Cards with Rental Insurance
Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance coverage to avoid paying for the rental company’s insurance.
Save £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.
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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 Peru.

Driving Laws and Road Conditions
Driving in Peru has its unique challenges that travelers should be prepared for.
- Familiarize yourself with Peruvian traffic laws.
- Expect different road conditions, especially outside cities.
- Be cautious of mountain roads and unpaved routes.
- Traffic in cities can be chaotic; plan accordingly.
- Ensure you have a valid international driving license.
Insurance Requirements
Understand the insurance policies provided and what additional coverage you may need.
- Check if your travel insurance covers car rentals.
- Mandatory insurance is included, but additional coverage might be beneficial.
- Vehicle theft and damage coverage is highly recommended.
- Verify if roadside assistance is included in your package.
- Ensure clarity on deductibles and exclusions.
Navigation and Equipment
Be prepared for long drives and varying terrains.
- Consider renting a GPS or using offline maps.
- Bring or rent equipment suitable for long distances.
- Check for tools like tire repair kits and spare tires.
- Mobile coverage might be limited in remote areas.
- Ensure the vehicle is suitable for your planned routes.
Rental Conditions
Understand the terms and conditions of your rental agreement.
- Mileage limits and associated costs for exceeding them.
- Fuel policies—return with the same level as received.
- Vehicle return location and potential additional fees.
- Policies on adding additional drivers.
- Verify the car's condition before leaving the lot.
Seasonal and Weather Considerations
Plan your trip according to Peru's varying climates.
- Dry season (May-September) is ideal for travel.
- Rainy season (November-March) can make some roads impassable.
- Altitude sickness can affect driving in higher regions.
- Plan time for acclimatization if driving in the Andes.
- Pack essentials for weather variations.
Time Management
Allocate sufficient time for your travels.
- Traffic delays are common in urban areas.
- Rural roads may take longer than anticipated.
- Plan for rest stops on long drives.
- Be on time for car pickup and return.
- Check operating hours of rental offices.

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.

What Are The Differences Between UK and Peruvian Traffic Rules

UK and Peruvian traffic rules differ in driving sides, pedestrian priority, speed limits, and alcohol tolerance levels.

Driving Side
PE
Drive on the right side of the road
GB
Drive on the left side of the road
Pedestrian Priority
PE
Pedestrians have priority at marked crossings
GB
Pedestrians generally have priority in most situations
Speed Limits
PE
Varies by location (50 km/h in cities, 100 km/h on highways)
GB
Varies (30 mph in urban areas, 70 mph on motorways)
Blood Alcohol Limit
PE
0.05% BAC (lower for professional drivers)
GB
0.08% BAC
Seatbelt Laws
PE
Mandatory for all occupants
GB
Mandatory for all occupants
Mobile Phone Use
PE
Prohibited while driving unless hands-free
GB
Prohibited while driving unless hands-free
Traffic Signals
PE
Follow standard international signal conventions
GB
Follow standard international signal conventions
Remember
- • Always carry your driving license and car rental agreement.
- • Be aware of specific regional rules that might apply in Peru.
- • Familiarize yourself with local road signs and their meanings.
- • Ensure your car insurance covers driving in Peru.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from United Kingdom renting a car in Peru

Can I legally drive in Peru with a UK driving licence? Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

Yes, UK photocard licences are valid for up to 6 months after entry into Peru. However, it's strongly recommended to also carry a 1949 IDP as it provides an official Spanish translation, making police checks and accidents easier to handle.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Peru? Are there any surcharges for younger or older drivers?

Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 25. Some may accept drivers aged 21-24 but will usually charge a significant young driver surcharge. There may also be upper age limits (often 70 or 75), sometimes requiring additional health documentation.

What documents do I need to present when renting a car in Peru?

You’ll need a valid passport, your UK driving licence (and ideally an IDP), and a credit card in the main driver’s name for payment and security deposit. Debit cards are generally not accepted for deposits.

Which platform is recommended for booking car rental in Peru?

QEEQ is the only recommended platform. It compares rates from global and local suppliers, offers clear insurance terms, and has competitive full protection insurance with global customer support.

How far in advance should I book my rental car?

Book at least 1-2 months ahead, especially for peak tourist seasons (June-August) or holidays, to secure your preferred car and the best rates.

What type of car should I rent considering Peru’s terrain? Is a 4x4 necessary?

For city driving and main paved roads, a standard saloon is sufficient. For Andean regions, Sacred Valley, or remote sites, an SUV or true 4x4 is highly recommended for higher clearance and better handling on unpaved or rough roads.

Are manual (stick shift) cars common and cheaper to rent in Peru?

Yes, manual cars are more prevalent and usually cheaper. However, city traffic is heavy and mountain driving is demanding, so if you’re less comfortable or want a more relaxed trip, consider paying extra for an automatic.

Can I add extra drivers to my rental agreement? What are the conditions?

Yes, you can add additional drivers at pickup. They must be present and provide the same documentation as the main driver. A daily fee applies for each extra driver.

Is it possible to drive a rented car from Peru into Bolivia or Chile?

Generally, no. Most Peruvian rental companies prohibit cross-border travel due to insurance and legal complexities. If you plan to cross borders, rent separate cars in each country or use bus services.

What should I pay special attention to in the terms when booking on QEEQ?

Check for mileage limits (most are unlimited, but confirm), fuel policy (usually full-to-full), deposit amount, cancellation policy, and details of insurance excess. QEEQ usually highlights these clearly.

What makes up the total rental cost in Peru?

Total cost includes base rental, local taxes (e.g., IGV 18%), airport surcharges, your chosen insurance, and extras like extra driver fees, GPS, child seats, or one-way drop-off fees.

What is a security deposit? How much is it typically and when is it refunded?

A security deposit is a pre-authorised amount on your credit card, ranging from $500 to $2500 depending on car and insurance. It’s released within 5-15 business days after safe return of the car.

What insurance is legally required when driving in Peru?

SOAT (Seguro Obligatorio de Accidentes de Tránsito) is mandatory. It covers personal injury for all parties in an accident. All rental vehicles should include valid SOAT.

What are CDW and TP insurance? Are they included in the rental price?

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and TP (Theft Protection) reduce your liability for damage/theft to a set excess. They’re usually bundled in the base price but with high excess.

Does my UK credit card's included rental insurance cover me in Peru?

Check directly with your credit card provider. Many cards exclude Peru or are considered secondary insurance. Rental companies often require their insurance regardless of your card’s coverage.

What is 'excess' (deductible) and how can I reduce it to zero?

Excess is the maximum you pay out of pocket for damage/theft. You can reduce it by buying costly 'super cover' from the rental desk or more economically via QEEQ's full protection insurance, which reimburses your excess.

What is special about QEEQ’s insurance products?

QEEQ’s full protection is third-party insurance. If you pay an excess for damage, you claim it back with supporting documents after your trip. It’s usually much cheaper than rental desk zero-excess packages.

What is the typical fuel policy for rentals in Peru?

Most rentals are 'Full to Full': pick up and return the car with a full tank. Failing to do so results in high refueling and service charges.

Is refuelling easy in Peru? What about payment options?

Cities and main roads have many stations, but rural areas may have long gaps. Fill up before remote trips. Credit cards are accepted in major stations, but bring cash (Peruvian soles) for rural areas.

Are there mileage limits on rentals in Peru?

Most tourist-oriented rentals offer unlimited mileage. Always confirm this in your contract to avoid expensive overage fees.

Is it easy to pick up a rental car at Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)?

Yes, most major rental desks are in or near arrivals. Some local companies offer shuttle service to their offices. Staff will direct you to your vehicle in the airport car park.

What original documents do I need to show when picking up the car?

Bring your passport, UK driving licence, IDP (if you have one), and the credit card used for booking. Copies or mobile photos are not accepted.

What should I check when inspecting the rental car?

Inspect tyres (including spare), bodywork (scratches, dents), glass (cracks), lights, wipers, and cabin features like AC and audio. Note all pre-existing damage on the rental agreement.

How should I document pre-existing damage before leaving the lot?

Take slow, 360-degree video and close-up photos of all damage with your phone (ensure timestamps). Confirm all damage is listed on the rental paperwork.

What emergency tools must be in the car?

Check for a working jack, lug wrench, and two red warning triangles (mandatory). Know where these are kept.

How do I confirm the car’s SOAT insurance is valid?

A SOAT sticker is usually on the windscreen with validity dates. You can also request to see the SOAT document and check that the plate and expiry cover your rental period.

What if the rental company tries to downgrade or upgrade my booked car?

Free upgrades are fine. For downgrades, demand a same-class or better vehicle, or a refund of the difference. Contact QEEQ support if issues aren’t resolved.

What operational details should I clarify at pickup?

Ask about fuel type (petrol grade or diesel), special features (e.g. 4WD operation), how to open the fuel cap and bonnet, and alarm system operation.

What is the return process like? How much time should I allow?

Staff will inspect the car and fuel gauge. If all is well, you sign off and leave. Allow 30-45 minutes, or up to 1 hour at busy Lima airport locations.

What happens if new, unrecorded damage is found at return?

The company will assess and deduct repair costs from your deposit. If you have super cover, you may pay nothing. With QEEQ's insurance, pay the charge, then claim reimbursement with supporting documents.

How do Peru’s roads differ from the UK?

Conditions vary dramatically. Main highways are well-paved, but secondary and rural roads can be unpaved, potholed, or poorly signed. Expect far less consistency than the UK.

What unique challenges exist when driving in the Andes?

Expect high altitudes (3000-5000m) affecting both you and the car, winding switchbacks, rapid weather changes, and landslides, especially in the wet season (Nov-April).

What is city driving like in Lima?

It’s extremely congested and chaotic. Driving styles are aggressive, with frequent lane changes, honking, and little adherence to formal rules. Avoid rush hours if possible.

What is the key difference in traffic laws compared to the UK?

Peru drives on the right. Rules exist but enforcement is lax, so defensive driving is essential. Be especially careful at roundabouts and intersections.

Are there any crucial Peruvian traffic signs I should know?

Yes. Key Spanish terms: 'PARE' (Stop), 'CEDA EL PASO' (Yield), 'NO ADELANTAR' (No overtaking), 'LOMADA'/'ROMPE MUELLES' (Speed bump). Speed bumps are common and often unmarked.

Which navigation apps should I use? Are offline maps necessary?

Google Maps and Waze work well in cities, but rural/Andes areas often lack signal. Download Google Maps offline maps before your trip for essential coverage.

Is it safe to drive at night in Peru?

Strongly discouraged, especially outside cities. Poor lighting, hazards, unlit vehicles, animals, and increased risk of crime make night driving risky.

Are there tolls on Peruvian highways? How do I pay?

Yes, main highways have tolls (peajes), usually 6-15 soles. Most accept cash only (soles), so keep small bills handy.

How do I adapt to local driving styles?

Stay calm, use defensive driving, keep extra distance, and don’t expect others to follow rules. Use your horn as a warning, not aggression. You’ll adapt over time.

What should I do if I encounter animals (like llamas or cattle) on the road?

Slow down or stop, and wait for animals to cross. Don’t honk, as it can spook them. Enjoy the unique scenery and take photos.

How safe is self-driving in Peru overall? Are there risky areas to avoid?

Self-driving on main tourist routes is generally safe with caution. Be wary of city crime (especially theft from cars) and avoid remote border and coca-producing regions (like VRAEM).

How can I keep my car and belongings safe when parked?

Never leave anything visible inside; not even coats or empty bags. Store luggage in the boot and use guarded car parks ('estacionamiento vigilado') whenever possible.

What should I do if stopped by police in Peru?

Stay calm and polite. Pull over safely, keep hands visible, and present your documents when asked. Most checks are routine.

How do I recognise real police and handle possible bribery attempts?

Real police wear uniforms and use marked cars. If asked for a roadside cash fine ('multa'), politely decline and insist on paying at the police station ('comisaría'). Never offer cash voluntarily.

What if my car breaks down, e.g., a flat tyre on the road?

Move to a safe spot, turn on hazard lights, set up warning triangles. Change the tyre if able, otherwise call the 24-hour roadside assistance number provided by your rental company.

What should I do if I’m in a car accident, regardless of severity?

Don’t move the cars (unless unsafe), check for injuries, call emergency services and your rental company immediately, don’t admit liability, take photos, and wait for police.

What are Peru’s key emergency numbers?

Police: 105; Fire: 116; Ambulance: 106; Tourist Police in Lima: (01) 460-1060. Save these numbers in your phone.

What if I lose mobile signal in remote areas?

Prepare by downloading offline maps. For deep remote travel, consider renting a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon (PLB) with SOS function.

How to deal with altitude sickness while driving?

Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and heavy meals, try coca tea. If symptoms worsen (headache, nausea, dizziness), stop driving, rest, and descend if necessary.

What should I do if the rental car is stolen?

Report immediately to the nearest police station for a formal report, notify your rental company, contact QEEQ support, and inform your travel insurance for lost belongings.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Peru for UK Travelers

Planning a road trip in Peru can be an exhilarating experience, offering diverse landscapes and incredible cultural adventures. If you're traveling from the United Kingdom, you might be wondering:

Can British Citizens Drive in Peru?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Travelers from GB to PE

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Peru?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Peru?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are The Differences Between UK and Peruvian Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Planning a road trip in Peru can be an exhilarating experience, offering diverse landscapes and incredible cultural adventures.
If you're traveling from the United Kingdom, you might be wondering: