$9 Car Rental Cartago

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Cartago

Renting a car in Cartago offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility for your adventure-filled journey. This charming village serves as a gateway to numerous attractions, allowing eco travelers, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers to discover the beauty of Costa Rica at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu, located just 8 miles away, perfect for outdoor experiences and scenic views. The National Museum of Costa Rica, situated 11 miles from Cartago, provides rich cultural insights, while the University of Costa Rica, 10 miles away, adds a touch of urban exploration.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to explore nearby destinations. Visit the vibrant city of San Juan, only 7 miles away, or the charming neighborhood of Carmen, which is 11 miles from Cartago, both featuring notable attractions like Sabana Park and the National Museum of Costa Rica. Don’t miss the picturesque city of Orosi, located 8 miles away, where you can find the ruins of Ujarras and Our Lady of the Angels Basilica. Renting a car ensures you can manage your luggage easily and maintain a flexible travel itinerary while immersing yourself in the stunning surroundings of Cartago.

Most popular car rentals in Cartago

• Midsize SUV: This option is highly popular in Cartago, providing ample space for 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases. It's ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to experience the lush landscapes and cultural sites at their own pace. With a midsize SUV, you can enjoy the comfort of a spacious interior while having the flexibility to explore the stunning scenery and attractions around Cartago.
• Standard: The standard car option is another favorite among travelers in Cartago. Accommodating 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases, this car type is well-suited for couples and families. It offers a perfect balance of comfort and practicality, allowing you to navigate the roads of Cartago and its surrounding areas with ease while managing your luggage conveniently.
• Fullsize SUV: For those traveling in larger groups or with family, the fullsize SUV is a top choice in Cartago. It fits 6 travelers and can handle up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it perfect for group adventures. This vehicle provides the extra space and comfort needed for longer journeys, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beautiful outdoor experiences that Cartago has to offer.

Top rated car suppliers in Cartago

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travelers in Cartago due to its reliable service and well-maintained vehicles. With a location conveniently situated in the area, Alamo offers a selection of Midsize SUVs and Fullsize SUVs, making it easy for you to navigate the local attractions comfortably. Customers appreciate the quick pickup process and the cleanliness of the cars, which enhances the overall rental experience.
• Enterprise: Known for its exceptional customer service, Enterprise also has a rental location in Cartago. This supplier is favored for its Midsize SUVs and Economy SUVs, allowing travelers to choose the perfect vehicle for their needs. Many customers highlight the helpful staff and smooth check-in process, making it a great option for those looking for flexibility and quality service during their trip.
• National Car Rental: National Car Rental provides a solid option for those renting in Cartago, with a focus on customer satisfaction. With a selection of Standard and Midsize SUVs available, travelers can enjoy a comfortable ride while exploring the area. National is praised for its efficient service and well-maintained fleet, ensuring a hassle-free experience from pickup to drop-off.

Where to go in Cartago

• San Juan: Located 7 miles away from Cartago, San Juan is a vibrant city that offers a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Visitors often explore the University of Costa Rica for its modern campus, take leisurely strolls in Sabana Park, and delve into the history at the National Museum of Costa Rica. The peak visitor times are in February to March and December, making it a lively destination during those months.
• Carmen: Situated 11 miles from Cartago, Carmen is a district known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Travelers enjoy visiting local attractions such as Sabana Park and the National Museum of Costa Rica. Carmen also features a public market and nearby beaches, ideal for those looking for adventure. February to March and December are the best months to visit for a bustling atmosphere.
• Orosi: Only 8 miles from Cartago, Orosi is a city that draws visitors with its stunning landscapes and cultural sites. Key highlights include the Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, and the historical Ruins of Ujarras. Don’t miss the Our Lady of the Angels Basilica, an architectural gem. The peak travel months are March to April and July, providing an excellent time to enjoy the scenic surroundings.

10 tips to save on your Cartago car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to benefit from lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and some vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
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 usually the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just ensure to 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 it may be worth the convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Cartago

The best value period to rent a car in and around Cartago is October, when prices are moderately low and demand is average. November follows closely, also featuring reasonable prices and steady demand. Alternatively, September shows slightly higher demand but continues to offer good value. In contrast, January is typically the most expensive month, with average demand, making it less favorable for rentals. March also sees moderately high prices, reflecting the busier travel season.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
February	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
March	66.0°F (18.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
April	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
May	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
August	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately Low
October	66.0°F (18.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
November	65.3°F (18.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
December	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Cartago

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Cartago into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Cartago and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Cartago

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Cartago. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Cartago

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $9.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals