Car hire in Costa Rica
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Costa Rica car hire at a glance
| Most popular provider | Dollar |
|---|---|
| Most popular car | Premium/Luxury, Crossover |
| Pick-up points | |
| Cheapest price found | |
| Cheapest month to rent | July |
| Best time to book | 2 weeks before |
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Cities in Costa Rica
Take a look at the different cities in Costa Rica you can set off from. You could find a great price somewhere less travelled.
Airports in Costa Rica
If you’re flying to Costa Rica it could be easier to hit the road straight from the airport.Find the best car rental deal in Costa Rica
Find the cheapest time to hire a car in Costa Rica
The cheapest month to rent a car in Costa Rica is July, when the average cost per day is ₹ 1,305. If that doesn’t work for you, the second cheapest month is September, when the average cost per day is ₹ 1,309. Keep in mind when you’re looking to book, that the most expensive month to rent a car in Costa Rica is February.Explore Costa Rica
What are the best car hire companies in Costa Rica?
Getting the cheapest car rental in Costa Rica
Here are some tips to help you bag the best prices, and hit the road for less.How to find a cheap car hire deal in Costa Rica
To find a cheap car hire deal in Costa Rica, begin your search with Skyscanner. We use the same technology as our flight search to help you compare car hire options on price and ease of pickup. With 38 pickup points, including the popular San Jose, you’ll have flexibility in choosing your location. Explore top cities like Liberia, Tamarindo, and Puerto Jimenez with confidence, knowing you can amend or cancel your car rental if plans change. Look for deals with a fair fuel policy and find the best option for your needs.
Costa Rica's most popular car hire companies
When exploring Costa Rica, you will find a variety of car hire providers to choose from, including Dollar, U-Save, Europcar, Alamo, Amigos, and Routes Car Rentals. These providers offer various car types to cater to different needs, from small cars that are cost-effective and suitable for city driving to larger vehicles that handle various road conditions well. By selecting the most appropriate provider and car type, you can tailor your car rental experience to your specific requirements.
What are the speed limits in Costa Rica?
When exploring Costa Rica, it's important to stay aware of the speed limits. On highways, the limit is 90 km/h, while expressways and country roads have a limit of 80 km/h. Within city limits, keep your speed to a maximum of 40 km/h. Roads can be narrow or winding, so drive cautiously and remain attentive. Always be on the lookout for road signs and local driving conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Popular driving trips in Costa Rica
Embark on a road journey through Costa Rica and explore the country's top driving routes. Start your adventure by heading from San José to La Fortuna via Route 1, part of the Pan-American Highway, where the roads transition into scenic winding paths. Enjoy experiences such as hiking, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting at Arenal Volcano and take in the beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall.
Continue from La Fortuna to Monteverde for a more adventurous drive on a mix of paved and unpaved roads. Discover the Monteverde Cloud Forest, where ziplining and wildlife spotting await against a mountainous backdrop.
Begin your Guanacaste and Nicoya Peninsula road trip in Liberia, driving towards Santa Teresa through unpaved roads. Use your time to visit the beaches along the Nicoya Peninsula, with activities like surfing and swimming, and explore the spirited Tamarindo and relaxed Santa Teresa.
What you'll need to hire a car in Costa Rica
Navigating Costa Rica's landscapes by car is a breeze when you know the basics. You need to be 25 or older to rent a car, although you can drive at 18. Don’t forget your valid driving licence and credit card for securing the rental. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is advisable, especially if your licence is not in Spanish or English. Remember, Costa Rica drives on the right, so plan your journeys accordingly for a smooth ride.
