Costa Rica Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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Explore Costa Rica with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Costa Rica, El Oro, ECU
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Costa Rica, El Oro, ECU
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Costa Rica, El Oro, ECU
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Costa Rica, El Oro, ECU
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 offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the village and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. Notable attractions such as Machala Cathedral, located 34 km away, and Juan Montalvo Park, also 34 km distant, are easily accessible. If you're interested in broader exploration, cities like Arenillas, 31 km from Costa Rica, and Huaquillas, just 16 km away, feature additional sights including the Arenillas Central Church and Mother Park.

A rental car is particularly convenient for those travelling with family or groups, allowing ample space for everyone and their gear. If you plan to visit places like Cayarca, located 18 km from Costa Rica, you'll find it easy to navigate between various landmarks without the hassle of public transport. Overall, renting a car empowers you to make the most of your time in and around Costa Rica, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip filled with cultural experiences and city exploration.

Where to stay around Costa Rica

  • Arenillas: Located 31 km away from Costa Rica, Arenillas offers a delightful beach and outdoor adventure experience. Travellers can explore key attractions such as the Arenillas Central Church, ideal for those interested in culture, or the nearby national state park. Families can enjoy Mother Park, a lovely urban park perfect for outdoor activities. This area is particularly appealing during the dry season, when visitors can fully appreciate its natural beauty.
  • Huaquillas: Situated 16 km from Costa Rica, Huaquillas attracts visitors looking for a vibrant city-themed and outdoor experience. The local landmarks include the Machala Cathedral and Arenillas Central Church, both significant cultural sites. Juan Montalvo Park offers a modern square ideal for leisure and socialising, making it a pleasant stop. Huaquillas is best enjoyed in the drier months, when walking and shopping can be particularly enjoyable.
  • Puerto Bolívar: A village located 31 km from Costa Rica, Puerto Bolívar is a charming spot for those interested in culture and history. Notable highlights include the Machala Cathedral, a stunning architectural site, and Juan Montalvo Park, providing a lovely space for relaxation. Heroes Square is another landmark worth a visit. The warm climate makes it a lovely destination to explore at any time of the year.

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 specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travels, utilise filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking early often results in lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and can be easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this instance.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for picking up your rental car at airports, but this might be worthwhile for the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy 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 licence is essential for renting a car.

Information on Car Rentals

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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Costa Rica?
You'll 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?
Our Customer Service Portal has information about cancellations. In most cases, total refunds are available if a prepaid rental is cancelled at least six hours ahead of pickup. Be sure to read your policy to see if there are any exclusions.
What types of cars can I rent in Costa Rica?
Compact, mid-size or full-size ... Hop behind the wheel of just about any kind of vehicle you like! Economy is the leading rental vehicle category in Costa Rica. Zippy, great on gas and a snap to park, these wheels make touring bustling city streets a delight. Maybe best of all? They're easy on the budget. That means you'll have more money to spend on other things, like seeing as much of this awesome destination as you can.
Where can I go on a road trip from Costa Rica?
There are so many things to do in Costa Rica, but head further afield and you'll find even more magic. Arrange a set of wheels and you can wander around the greater area at your leisure. Add these awesome places to your to-do list:
  • Cuenca is approximately 145 kilometres from Costa Rica. Well-known sights like New Cathedral of Cuenca should be high on your list here.
  • Why not see the wonders of La Libertad too? Major sights in this happening city include El Paseo Shopping La Peninsula. La Libertad is 145 kilometres from Costa Rica.
  • Los Frailes Beach is around 209 kilometres from Costa Rica and is one of the region's most scenic nature spots. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the fresh air here.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Costa Rica with Expedia?
Finding the best deal on your Costa Rica rental car is a breeze with Expedia. Choose your preferred ride, add in a few more details and compare prices from top suppliers. Why not add hotels and flights to your booking? You'll score terrific discounts when you combine your bookings into a package.
What do you need to rent a car in Costa Rica?
The main requirements are a valid driver's licence and a credit card in your name. Many car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may be asked to provide proof of alternative coverage if you prefer to opt out. Be sure to check with your rental provider to avoid any problems.
What is the cheapest car rental in Costa Rica?
The cheapest car rental in Costa Rica within the past seven days was just per day. The second best deal snapped up by thrifty travellers was . 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 don't hestitate to extend your stay! Just 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?
Renting a car if you're under 25 years in Costa Rica often depends on the rental supplier you choose. Some businesses apply a surcharge for customers aged between 21 and 24 years, however others may not apply any extra costs for this age range. It'd be smart to understand the terms and conditions of your selected car company to escape any surprise charges on pickup.

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