Car Rental Costa Rica

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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, 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 travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the village and its surroundings at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. Notably, you can visit key attractions such as Machala Cathedral, Juan Montalvo Park, and Heroes Square, all located just 21 miles away from Costa Rica. Additionally, nearby cities like Arenillas, located 19 miles away, and Huaquillas, only 10 miles away, feature their own attractions like Arenillas Central Church and Mother Park. This convenience is ideal for families or groups who may need more space for strollers or luggage. Having a car also means you can explore cities like Cayarca, which is 11 miles away, without relying on public transportation. This way, you can easily fit in sightseeing while enjoying the comfort of your own vehicle. Overall, a rental car enhances your travel experience in and around Costa Rica, making it easier to discover both the village itself and the captivating destinations nearby.

Where to stay around Costa Rica

  • Arenillas: Located 19 miles from Costa Rica, Arenillas is a vibrant city that offers a blend of beach and outdoor adventure experiences. Travelers can explore local attractions such as the Arenillas Central Church, perfect for cultural enthusiasts, and the scenic national state park nearby. Families will enjoy the urban oasis of Mother Park, ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities. Arenillas is a great choice for those seeking both adventure and cultural immersion during their stay.
  • Huaquillas: Just 10 miles from Costa Rica, Huaquillas is a bustling city known for its beach and city-themed outdoor experiences. Visitors can engage in walking and shopping while enjoying the local atmosphere. Key points of interest include the impressive Machala Cathedral and the charming Arenillas Central Church, both suitable for cultural vacations. Don't miss Juan Montalvo Park, a modern square that serves as a perfect spot for leisure and social gatherings.
  • Puerto Bolívar: Situated 19 miles away from Costa Rica, Puerto Bolívar is a quaint village that offers a unique cultural experience. The village provides access to significant landmarks such as the historic Machala Cathedral and the vibrant Juan Montalvo Park, ideal for city vacations. Heroes Square, another key attraction, adds to the charm of Puerto Bolívar, making it a delightful place for travelers who appreciate local culture and community gatherings.

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 selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well before your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars come at a lower rental price and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good balance of 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 not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning an extended road trip, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Costa Rica

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Costa Rica

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Costa Rica. 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 Costa Rica

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

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.

Car Rental Information

 
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SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
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From the airport to your hotel
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Costa Rica?
Avis provides compact 4-5 door cars starting from $12 a day. Alamo Rent A Car and Europcar both offer economy 4-5 door cars starting from $14 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a cheap car rental in Costa Rica that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Costa Rica.
What are the best luxury car companies in Costa Rica?
For luxury car rentals in Costa Rica, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Europcar and Avis. Europcar offers luxury SUVs starting from $22 a day, providing a high-end experience for your travels. Avis also specializes in premium SUVs, with options starting from $153 a day. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated journey in Costa Rica. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Costa Rica.
Can I rent a car one-way in Costa Rica?
A one-way car rental in Costa Rica is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $15 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in one location and drop it off in another. These are good options for one-way car rental in Costa Rica, offering convenience for travelers exploring different parts of the country. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Costa Rica.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $12 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas within Costa Rica and returning to the same spot. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Costa Rica.
What are the best car rentals in Costa Rica?
Car rentals in Costa Rica offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Midsize 4-5 door
  • Mini 4-5 door
  • Compact SUV
Most come with A/C standard, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Costa Rica.

What are the best car rentals in Costa Rica for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Costa Rica for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 4-5 door, starting from $13 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 4-5 door, starting from $12 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you're planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Costa Rica.

What are the best car rentals in Costa Rica for couples?
The best car rentals in Costa Rica for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 4-5 door, starting from $15 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $21 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a fullsize SUV for scenic drives around Costa Rica. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Costa Rica.

What are the best car rentals in Costa Rica for families?
The best car rentals in Costa Rica for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $33 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Fullsize SUV, starting from $19 a day — seats up to 6 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, offering ample space for families
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $48 a day — seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Costa Rica. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the September and July peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Costa Rica.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Costa Rica?
Yes, you can find hybrid vehicle options for car rental in Costa Rica. Enterprise offers hybrid vehicles starting from $91 a day, and Alamo Rent A Car also provides hybrid options starting from $91 a day. These vehicles can offer a more fuel-efficient choice for your travels in Costa Rica.
What is the best time to book a car in Costa Rica?
From January, prices in Costa Rica are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $12 a day during this period. September and July tend to be the busiest months, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What is the weather like for driving in Costa Rica?
Driving in Costa Rica experiences varying conditions throughout the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around September and July, when routes can get busier—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For varying road conditions, an economy class car offers reliable grip and traction. Always check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit for remote routes.
What are the best car companies in Costa Rica?
Car rentals in Costa Rica are available from providers like Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, and Europcar, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Enterprise has economy 2 or 4 door and compact 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Alamo Rent A Car offers economy 4-5 door and compact 2 or 4 door vehicles. Europcar rounds out the choices with economy 4-5 door and midsize 4-5 door vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for challenging terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Costa Rica.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Costa Rica?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Costa Rica. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Costa Rica?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Costa Rica?
Budget car rental in Costa Rica can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Costa Rica?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Costa Rica. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Costa Rica car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Costa Rica?
To rent a car in Costa Rica, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Costa Rica car rental?
If you need to cancel your Costa Rica car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Costa Rica with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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