Renting a car in Costa Rica
Driving yourself, allows the most freedom and flexibility: you don’t have to plan departure times in advance, you can stop and take pictures whenever you want and you can change your mind when you are half way there.
With this in mind we partnered with Adobe Rent a Car to provide discounted prices in car rentals. Adobe is the largest local rental car company in Costa Rica, and also the most reputable. They have many offices around the country. Their prices and their insurance options are clear and they have no hidden fees.
Check prices and vehicles available for your dates using the box below (affiliate link):
Keep in mind that road and traffic conditions in Costa Rica are less than ideal. Even traveling to important destinations, such as driving to La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano or beaches on the Pacific coast, roads are narrow, with only one lane, no hard shoulder and winding up and down steep mountains. If you are unsure about renting a car in Costa Rica we suggest booking private transfers instead.
For most itineraries we suggest renting a 4WD. Roads in Costa Rica are in much better condition today than they have been in the last 10 years, but regular automobiles are still slower on dirt roads and bound to hit a rock and get you in trouble. The most popular 4WD models available are the Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe.
Rental car prices vary a lot depending on the time of year and the general demand for a particular date. If you book early you can get lower prices. We normally find prices 25% to 35% lower by booking in advance.
Pick up at the airport and many other locations is available and free of charge.