Costa Rica Car Rental

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Top Car Deals in Costa Rica

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Costa Rica, Mato Grosso do Sul, BRA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Costa Rica, Mato Grosso do Sul, BRA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Costa Rica, Mato Grosso do Sul, BRA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Costa Rica, Mato Grosso do Sul, BRA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Costa Rica car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Costa Rica

Renting a car in Costa Rica allows you to explore the city and surrounding areas with freedom and flexibility. With your own vehicle, you can visit attractions at your own pace, making it easier to manage luggage and adapt your travel plans as needed. This is particularly appealing for families or those seeking outdoor and eco-friendly experiences.

One key attraction you can easily access is the Salto do Sucuriú Municipal Natural Park, which offers a beautiful natural setting for exploration. Additionally, the nearby city of Baús features both Salto do Sucuriú Municipal Natural Park and Emas National Park, allowing for a diverse range of outdoor activities. Having a rental car means you can navigate these destinations comfortably and efficiently, ensuring you can take full advantage of what Costa Rica has to offer without relying on public transport. The convenience of a rental car makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to make the most of their trip in and around Costa Rica.

Where to stay in Costa Rica

  • Baús: Nestled in the Costa Rica region, Baús offers a tranquil village atmosphere for visitors. Explore the stunning Salto do Sucuriú Municipal Natural Park, a reserve that showcases the region's natural beauty. For those seeking adventure, Emas National Park, a national park renowned for its outdoor activities and scenic landscapes, is also nearby. This area is ideal for nature lovers and offers a serene getaway, especially during the dry season from May to September when the weather is most pleasant for exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Costa Rica

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. Booking early often allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which can be convenient as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unwarranted expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential to rent a car.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Costa Rica?
You get bang for your buck in Costa Rica, with car rental prices within the past seven days starting from as low as per day.
What happens if I need to cancel my Costa Rica car reservation?
Subject to your cancellation policy, you could be eligible for a refund. Many reservations allow for a total refund if you advise us a minimum of six hours in advance of picking up the car. Got any questions? If you can't find the answer in your booking details, our Customer Service Portal is here 24/7.
Where can I go on a road trip from Costa Rica?
There's so much to do in Costa Rica, but venture farther afield and you'll find more sightseeing magic. Pick up a set of wheels and you can roam around the greater area at your leisure. Add these fantastic destinations to your itinerary:
  • Head off to Jatai for a fun-filled sightseeing adventure. About 177 kilometres from Costa Rica, it has numerous great sights, including Juscelino Kubitschek Memorial Park.
  • Why not see everything on offer in Mineiros too? Notable tourist attractions to see here include Sao Bento Church. Mineiros is around 113 kilometres from Costa Rica.
  • Get out into the great outdoors and take in the serenity at Pe da Serra Waterfall. It's about 306 kilometres from Costa Rica.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Costa Rica with Expedia?
Check customer ratings and reviews, choose your preferred car type and compare prices from leading brands. Expedia makes it a cinch to find the best deal on your rental wheels. Combine your Costa Rica car rental with hotel or flight bookings and hit the road with even bigger savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica rules state drivers must be 21 and above to be able to rent a car. However, young drivers will be subject to a surcharge and some choice restrictions. Many companies impose a daily young renter fee in addition to the usual rental rate. This helps cover the higher risk of damage or accident. While many car categories (like compact and economy) are available to young renters, restrictions usually apply to luxury and specialty cars.
What do you need to rent a car in Costa Rica?
A valid driver's licence and a credit card in the same name. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? In that case, you may also require proof of other coverage. Requirements may differ between providers, so have a thorough read of your policy.
What side of the road do you drive on in Costa Rica?
Drivers from the States will feel right at home zooming around Costa Rica — motorists here stick to the right-hand side.
What is the cheapest car rental in Costa Rica?
We looked into prices over the last seven days and found that the lowest daily rate was . The second lowest price for rental vehicles in Costa Rica was a day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Costa Rica?
You can rent a car for a month or even longer in Costa Rica, so go ahead and extend your stay! Simply enter your trip dates into our long-term car rental deals page and reserve your perfect ride.
Where can I find a Costa Rica car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to look into the age policy of the Costa Rica rental providers you're interested in. If you're under 25 years old, be mindful that some will charge additional costs. It's best to know about this in advance so you can plan your budget accordingly. Each rental car company has its own policies for younger drivers, so it's smart to do your research.

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