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Chile Carretera Austral Road

Explore Latin America on a self drive holiday

From scenic coastlines to dramatic mountain roads, self drive holidays offer a flexible way to experience Latin America

Self drive holidays in Latin America

Discover the freedom of a self drive holiday through some of Latin America’s most rewarding landscapes. From Costa Rica’s rainforests and coastlines to the wide open spaces of Patagonia, travelling by car allows you to explore at your own pace, shaping each day around your interests and sense of curiosity.

With car hire and accommodation arranged in advance, our self drive holidays offer independence with peace of mind. Routes are carefully planned to include key highlights, while still allowing flexibility for scenic detours, unplanned stops and time spent lingering in places that capture your attention. Whether you prefer a clearly mapped route or a more relaxed structure, each itinerary is tailored to the way you like to travel.

Latin America is home to some of the region’s most memorable driving journeys. Experience Patagonia’s sweeping landscapes, follow mountain roads through the Chilean Andes, or travel between national parks and coastal regions in Costa Rica. Our Travel Specialists design self drive holidays that balance freedom with expert planning, creating journeys that feel seamless, personal and deeply satisfying.

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Scenic Roads

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Unique Stops

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Costa Rica

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Landscapes

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Why choose a self drive holiday in Latin America?

✔️ Travel at your own pace
Enjoy the freedom to explore independently, setting your own rhythm and taking time to discover places that feel right for you.

✔️ Scenic driving experiences
Journey through some of Latin America’s most striking landscapes, from the wide open spaces of Patagonia to rainforest regions and coastal roads in Costa Rica.

✔️ Tailor made routes
Whether you prefer a clearly structured itinerary or a more relaxed journey with flexibility built in, your self drive holiday is designed around how you like to travel.

✔️ Well balanced distances
Driving routes are carefully planned to allow time for sightseeing, rest and exploration, ensuring each day feels comfortable rather than rushed.

✔️ A deeper sense of place
Travelling by car allows you to move through varied regions, from Andean highlands to rural coastlines, offering a closer connection to local life and landscapes.

✔️ Suitable for different travel styles
Self drive holidays can be adapted for confident road trippers or those new to driving abroad, with expert planning and support throughout your journey.

Our Top Self-Drive Holiday Ideas in Latin America
  • Costa Rica: Explore a rich variety of ecosystems, from rainforest regions to Pacific and Caribbean coastlines. Highlights often include Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest and national parks known for wildlife and scenic walking trails.
  • Argentina. The northwest: Travel from Buenos Aires into northwest Argentina, discovering striking landscapes and strong cultural identity. Key stops include Salta, Jujuy and the Quebrada de Humahuaca, where colour, history and open scenery define the journey.
  • Patagonia: Drive through Argentina and Chile’s Patagonian regions, exploring vast open spaces, glaciers and national parks. Routes often include Torres del Paine and the Perito Moreno Glacier, offering some of the most dramatic scenery in the region.
  • Ecuador’s natural regions: Experience Ecuador at your own pace, travelling through volcanic landscapes, protected national parks and wildlife rich areas that showcase the country’s natural diversity.
  • Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico: Combine cultural exploration with coastal relaxation as you drive between ancient Maya sites, colonial cities such as Mérida, Chichén Itzá and the beaches of Tulum.
  • Brazil’s southern coast: Journey along Brazil’s southern coastline, linking destinations such as Florianópolis and Rio de Janeiro with scenic coastal roads and beach focused stops.
  • Atacama Desert, Chile: Explore Chile’s Atacama Desert by road, travelling between salt flats, desert valleys and high altitude landscapes including Valle de la Luna and surrounding regions.

Truly Individual Self Drive Holidays

We offer extraordinary self drive experiences - not off the shelf holiday packages

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Truly Individual Holiday
Northwest Argentina Self Drive

Spend 12 days exploring the best of northwest Argentina, on a self-drive adventure from Buenos Aires.

from £4949 pp
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Truly Individual Holiday
Northeast Self Drive

Discover some of Brazil's most stunning beaches and fascinating towns & cities on a 15-day Self Drive Holiday.

from £4199 pp
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Truly Individual Holiday
Self Drive Carretera Austral

A 17-day truly unique adventure in one of the world's last wildernesses, including Santiago, Puerto Montt, Queulat National Park and General Carrera Lake.

from £5299 pp
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Truly Individual Holiday
Self-Drive In Costa Rica

On this 15-day journey, you will drive through the diverse landscapes of Costa Rica and visit some of the country’s most fascinating places. 

from £4599 pp
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Truly Individual Holiday
Ecuador's Natural Wonders 13-day Holiday

Journey through some of Ecuador's incredibly diverse landscapes on a self-drive adventure taking in majestic volcanoes & expansive national parks at your own pace.

from £4799 pp
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Truly Individual Holiday
Yucatán in Depth

This 13-day holiday takes in the Yucatán Peninsula - once the stronghold of the Mayan civilisation - whose cities, palaces, and ritual sites are still standing today and are incredible sites to behold.

from £5229 pp
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Panama_City_View
Truly Individual Holiday
Panama Self-Drive Adventure

Discover the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of Panama’s Pacific Coastline on this 18-day self-drive journey through the Anton Valley, Azuero Peninsula, The Gulf of Chiriquí and Boquete.

from £5999 pp
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Mexico Grauwal Whale Watching
Truly Individual Holiday
Self-Drive Family Holiday in Baja California

A twin-centre based, family friendly holiday to Mexico. 10 days of winter sun, whales and wonders.

from £3999 pp
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Self Drive Holidays FAQs

What is a self drive holiday in Latin America?

A self drive holiday lets you explore Latin America by car at your own pace, combining personal freedom with expert planning. You choose where to go, how long to stay and what to explore, while we organise the routes, accommodation and logistics for a smooth and rewarding journey.

Do I need to be an experienced driver?

No. Self drive holidays can be tailored to suit all levels of confidence. Whether you are used to long road trips or new to driving abroad, our Travel Specialists plan routes that match your comfort level and provide support throughout your holiday.

What type of roads and driving conditions can I expect?

Driving conditions vary by region. Many scenic routes are on well maintained highways, while remote areas may include unsealed or mountainous roads. Your Travel Specialist will advise on what to expect and recommend suitable vehicles for each section of your journey.

Are car hire and fuel included?

Yes, car hire is included in our self drive holidays, typically with a vehicle suited to your itinerary and group size. Fuel costs are generally not included but your Travel Specialist will outline what to expect and help plan your budget accordingly.

How are routes planned?

Routes are carefully designed to balance driving time with sightseeing and rest. We focus on efficient travel distances so you can explore destinations, enjoy local experiences and still have time to relax.

Can self drive holidays include multiple countries?

Yes. Many self drive itineraries cross borders, allowing you to explore different countries by road. Your Travel Specialist will handle the necessary documentation, route planning and local regulations to ensure smooth travel.

Is accommodation included?

Yes. Accommodation is included and selected for comfort, location and character. We choose places that complement your route and enhance your overall experience.

What support is available during the trip?

Throughout your self drive holiday, Latin Routes provides support, including detailed route notes, contact information for local partners and assistance should you need help at any point.

Can I combine self drive with other travel styles?

Absolutely. Self drive holidays can be blended with other experiences such as guided tours, wildlife encounters, cultural stops or beach stays, creating a journey that reflects your interests and travel style.

How do I start planning a self drive holiday?

You can explore our self drive holiday ideas for inspiration or speak directly with one of our Travel Specialists. Together, you will shape an itinerary tailored to your preferences, interests and the pace at which you like to travel.

Speak to one of our dedicated Travel Specialists today

What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?

Every journey we plan is truly individual – created just for you, by our expert team. Whether you’re dreaming of wildlife, culture, food or landscapes, 5* luxury or off-grid adventure, we’ll design a Latin American holiday that’s truly unforgettable for all the right reasons.

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Award-Winning Expertise

We’re recognised by both the industry and our clients for our outstanding personalised service.

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Tailor-Made Just for You

We design every trip around you: your interests, your must-sees, your perfect holiday.

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Latin America Specialists

Every recommendation is shaped by real experience, true passion and specialist care. 

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5-Stars on Trustpilot

Consistently rated ‘Excellent’ by our clients for our expert planning and personalised attention.

Award-Winning Service

We’re proud to have been recognised by the travel industry and our clients alike for the quality of what we do. Our awards include:
Small Tour Operator of the Year

TTG Travel Industry Awards 2021 & 2024

Best Trade Support Team

TTG Travel Industry Awards 2022

Best Tour Operator

LATA Excellence Awards 2025 and LATA Achievement Awards 2018 & 2019

Best Small Holiday Company to Central & South America

British Travel Awards 2016

Bronze for Favourite Tour Operator Specialist

Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2024

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Winners Logo Tour Operator Ôçô Small W (2)
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
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Excellence Awards Winner

What Our Clients Say About Us