Car Rental Matapalo

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Matapalo

Pick-up and drop-off

Same as pick-up

Pick-up time

Drop-off time

Driver under 30 or over 70 years old

Young or senior drivers may be required to pay an additional fee.

Include AARP member rates

Membership is required and verified at pick-up.

I have a discount code

Preferred brand

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

Top Car Deals in Matapalo

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark

4 people

Matapalo, Guanacaste, CRI

Compact

Ford Focus

4 people

Matapalo, Guanacaste, CRI

Midsize

Toyota Corolla

5 people

Matapalo, Guanacaste, CRI

SUV

Jeep Compass

5 people

Matapalo, Guanacaste, CRI

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Matapalo

View all cars

What you need to know for your Matapalo car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Matapalo

Renting a car in Matapalo offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming village and its surroundings at your own pace. With a car, you can easily manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans to fit your needs, whether you are traveling with family, seeking a romantic getaway, or looking for beach experiences. Key attractions are conveniently accessible; for example, Tamarindo Beach is only 4 miles away, making it easy to enjoy sun and surf. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Las Baulas National Marine Park, located 3 miles away, for scenic adventures. Additionally, cultural experiences await at Tamarindo Church, just 3 miles from Matapalo. The nearby city of Tamarindo, 5 miles away, features popular beaches like Conchal Beach and Grande Beach, while Playa Conchal is only 2 miles from Matapalo. Having a rental car also allows you to explore the diverse offerings of Cabo Velas, ensuring a well-rounded experience in the area. Overall, a rental car enhances your trip and provides a convenient way to discover the beautiful sights of Matapalo and beyond.

Where to stay around Matapalo

Matapalo: Nestled within Cabo Velas, Matapalo offers a tranquil experience surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the serene beaches nearby and explore the local attractions, including the national state park. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families, Matapalo provides a peaceful retreat while still being close to vibrant Tamarindo.
Tamarindo: Located just 5 miles from Matapalo, Tamarindo is a bustling city perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Known for its romantic and family-friendly experiences, Tamarindo features beautiful beaches such as Tamarindo Beach, Conchal Beach, and Grande Beach, all suitable for beach vacations. The city also boasts various dining options and activities, including golf courses and resorts.
Cabo Velas: As the larger region encompassing Matapalo, Cabo Velas offers a mix of outdoor and romantic experiences. Visitors can explore stunning beaches like Flamingo Beach, Tamarindo Beach, and Conchal Beach. With resorts and golf courses nearby, this area is perfect for those looking to indulge in both relaxation and adventure while enjoying the lush natural beauty of Costa Rica.
Tempate: Situated 7 miles from Matapalo, Tempate is an adventurous destination known for its outdoor activities. With access to beautiful beaches like Coco Beach, Playa Potrero, and Flamingo Beach, it is ideal for beach lovers and thrill-seekers. The area's resorts provide a comfortable stay, while local restaurants offer delightful dining options to enhance your experience.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Matapalo

Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best vehicle for your journey.
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. Booking in advance often leads to lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental rates and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and some vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium options—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before finalizing your booking.
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 additional charges. This is often the most favorable option. Other policies may allow for full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can be convenient as well; just remember to return the vehicle empty in this case.
Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding rental insurance is simple when you book through Expedia.
Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Matapalo

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Matapalo

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

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

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

Car Rental Information

Car suppliers available
Popular car types	SUV, Full Size, Economy
Our best deal of the day
Our second best deal of the day
Our third best deal of the day
From the airport to your hotel	Airport Transportation
From popular domestic and international airports	Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Matapalo?

Exciting road trip adventures in Matapalo await, with daily car rental rates starting from as low as . That's based on prices found within the past seven days.

Can I rent a car from Daniel Oduber Intl. Airport (LIR)?

Land at Daniel Oduber Intl. Airport (LIR) and then head for Payless or Economy, a short commute away. You'll be exploring Matapalo in your rental before you know it.

What happens if I need to cancel my Matapalo car reservation?

Read over the cancellation policy to be sure, but the majority of prepaid reservations will receive a total refund if you advise us a minimum of six hours prior to pickup. There are some exceptions though. Your confirmation will have more info, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Where can I go on a road trip from Matapalo?

Matapalo offers adventures galore, but don't limit yourself to just one place. Arrange a set of wheels and take to the road to see what's in the surrounding region. These are some great options:

You'll discover National Museum of Costa Rica and lots more amazing attractions in San José. From Matapalo, it's approximately 120 miles away.
Your next stop? Liberia, which is around 30 miles away. Liberia Parque Central is one local draw card you won't want to miss.
Get into the outdoors and inhale the fresh air at Manuel Antonio National Park. You'll find it roughly 130 miles from Matapalo.

How do I find the best car rental deals in Matapalo with Expedia?

Expedia makes it easy and fast to compare costs, offers and providers, and to check reviews. Bundle your Matapalo car rental with flight or hotel bookings and you can make even bigger savings.

What do you need to rent a car in Matapalo?

While requirements may differ between outlets, the two key things you'll need are your driver's license and a credit card in the same name. You don't need to take out insurance with your rental company. However, proof of your own coverage may be necessary.

What is the cheapest car rental in Matapalo?

With rental rates beginning at just and a day in Matapalo within the past seven days, you'll be driving off with your own fantastic deal before you know it. 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 Matapalo?

Yes. Expedia partners with reputable suppliers that offer long-term rentals for all car types. Head to our long-term car rental deals and explore every corner of Matapalo — or way beyond!

Where can I find a Matapalo car rental if I am younger than 25?

This depends on the car rental companies that are in Matapalo. They often have different policies when it comes to minimum ages. If you've found a place that does cater to drivers under the age of 25, bear in mind that additional costs may apply. Conduct some research into what those charges could be before picking up the keys to your vehicle.

What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Matapalo?

A comprehensive insurance policy is a great idea for your Matapalo trip. That's why we recommend opting in to collision protection while booking your car rental with Expedia. This insures your vehicle against theft, vandalism and collision damage. Some destinations may also require a minimum level of liability insurance. This might be included in your rental price or your own auto insurance, so check what you're covered for and if you need it.

Can I drive in Matapalo with my current driver's license?

If you don't hold a driver's license issued in Costa Rica, then you might need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your place of residence to be able to rent a car. Also consider that if you do need an IDP, it has no validity on its own. You'll have to show your driver's license from your home country your passport and other forms of documentation as well. Lastly, it's important that the credit card used to book the rental vehicle matches the name on your license and passport. Some other requirements to rent a car internationally are:

Age restrictions: You must be at least 25 in many countries to rent a car. If you're younger, it might still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of cars you can rent.
Driving limitations: Make sure you read the fine print before getting behind the wheel. You typically can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or off road with a rental vehicle.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Things to do in Cabo Velas