Should I Rent A car in Costa Rica?
Renting a car in Costa Rica will give you the freedom and flexibility to travel where you please. Generally, a 4x4 is recommended throughout the entire country (if you're going to Monteverde or the Osa Peninsula, it's a must).
Both road infrastructure and rules are not on par with American and European standards, so be prepared to stay focused on the road and drive defensively. Due to rugged terrain, curvy single lane roads, and slow moving trucks, it will take you longer to get most places than the actual distance would seem to indicate.
The advantage, though, of having a rental car is that you can jump in your vehicle and go exploring, grab a bite to eat, or head off on a side trip whenever you feel like it. With cell phone and GPS rentals offered by many companies, you can feel more connected and organized throughout your entire journey. With a good map or directions, you will save an enormous amount of time then, say, traveling by public bus.
There are, however, some disadvantages to renting a car. Because the roads and signs are of poor quality, it can be difficult to find your way around, especially if traveling at night. If you do get lost, you shouldn't have trouble finding someone to give you directions, although they will most likely be given in Spanish and the distances will be based on landmarks and given in kilometers.
Something to keep in mind is the price of gasoline, which is more expensive than in the U.S. and will be a significant expense, especially if you plan on driving all over the country.
Still, if you are determined to rent a car, remember these precautions: avoid driving at night, always lock your car, don't leave valuables in the car, and don't park your car on the street in large cities like San José, Alajuela, Puntarenas or Limón - rather, try to park your car in a secure lot with an attendant.
To review information on auto rentals in Costa Rica, including rates, please check our Auto Rental search. Also review the information on our driving guide.
An alternative to renting a vehicle is to reserve shuttles or private transportation. For both options, a fully insured, recent-model minibuses (Toyota Hi-Ace van or similar) with air conditioning and a fully licensed and insured driver is utilized. Arranging for either of these options allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Related Questions
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Renting a Car and Driving in Costa Rica
Please note: Blockout dates for any car type from December 15th, 2021 to January 15th,2022. No availability. For travelers who prefer independence and flexibility or simply better access to hidden beaches, a rental car may be a good option for either the whole trip or just part of it. In general, rental cars are only a good option for adventure-minded travelers, who do not mind a few challenges along the way. Rental cars are generally not recommended for first time visitors to Costa Rica, because Costa Rica driving conditions can be intimidating and directional road signs are often missing. Nevertheless, with a positive, resilient, and adventurous outlook, as well as a good road map/GPS, first time visitors can successfully navigate the country. We offer rental choices that include compact cars, full-size cars, compact 4WDs, full-size 4WDs, and vans. It is very important to have an idea of what destinations you plan on visiting in order to choose the best vehicle for your travel needs. Compact 4WD vehicles are the most popular rentals in Costa Rica, because they are economical, and they enable travelers to navigate the entire country. But depending on the number of passengers, travel destinations, and amount of luggage, a full-size 4WD or one of the other vehicle types may be more appropriate. We work with multiple rental car providers so that we can offer a wide selection of vehicle models and pickup locations. Pickup locations include the San Jose and Liberia International Airports as well as dozens of destinations throughout Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Shuttle Transportation Service
Shuttle service is a shared transportation option in an air-conditioned minibus (or coaster) between popular destinations. Shuttle routes operate daily, and in some cases there are multiple departure times throughout the day. However, shuttles are by no means a public bus. They are subject to availability and must be reserved in advance.
Costa Rica Private Transport & Booking Service
Private transport service offers a safe, convenient, and flexible way to travel anywhere within Costa Rica. Private transport can be scheduled anytime you wish and from any airport, hotel, private home or identifiable landmark in Costa Rica. All the vehicles used for private transportation are air conditioned, well-maintained minibuses (passenger vans) driven by reliable and punctual Costa Rican professionals, who are eager to help your group move safely about the country.
Renting a Car and Driving in Costa Rica
Only slightly smaller than the U.S. state of West Virginia, Costa Rica is blessed with mountains and meadows, beaches and islands, rainforests and cloud forests. There is a lot to explore, and one of the best ways to do it is with a rental car. Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop where you want, when you want. You can take side trips along rural roads or stop to enjoy fresh fruit at a local farmers market. With a rental car, your trip is literally in the palm of your hands—and you can steer yourself in whatever direction (and to whichever adventure) that you choose.
Drake Bay
Resting on the northern side of the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay (Bahía Drake) is an adventure-seeker's paradise. It is named after Sir Francis Drake, who is believed to have ventured here in the late 16th century. Travelers here take on some of his adventurous spirit on treks through the primary rainforest.
Limon
Puerto Limón, or simply Limón, is the heart and soul of the Caribbean coastal province of Limón. This is the region's largest city, with a population of approximately 85,000, including the surrounding districts. The inhabitants are mostly comprised of Afro-Caribbean ancestry, giving the city a completely unique appeal in a country that is over 90 percent mestizo. Although not considered a very touristy city, Puerto Limón is not without its charm.
Monteverde Costa Rica Vacations
Heed the call of the great outdoors and let your next vacation take you to beautiful Monteverde, Costa Rica. Home to cool, misty cloud forests, and deep green foliage almost everywhere you look, there’s no mistaking that you’ve stepped away from everyday life. If spending time in nature is at the top of your travel to-do list, then you’ll get your fill of adventure in this part of Costa Rica’s Central Highlands. From zip lining across a canopy to tours of coffee plantations, there are plenty of activities to keep you moving in the fresh air.
Puntarenas
Puntarenas sits on a long, narrow peninsula in the Gulf of Nicoya on the Central Pacific Coast. The area is blessed with large amounts of sunshine and warmth. Like the name of the town Puntarenas is the Province it lays in and stretches as far south as Panama. This stretch has fantastic flora and fauna, radiant beaches, incredible eco adventure opportunities, and majestic national parks.
San Jose
"Chepe," as the city is referred to by locals, is the capital city of Costa Rica and a hub for modern Costa Rican culture. It's also where most visitors depart for tours of central Costa Rica's volcanoes and coffee plantations. Before you leave, take a fun-filled tour of the city's monuments and parks, and maybe sample the burgeoning craft beer scene.
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Alajuela & SJO Airport
Alajuela, nicknamed City of the Mangoes, is one of the most important cities in Costa Rica. It is the capital city of the providence bearing its name and is located just 11 miles northwest (17 km) of San Jose. Just outside of town is where you'll find the Juan Santamaria International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaria), Costa Rica's principal airport.
