Car Rental Santa Clara

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Top Car Deals in Santa Clara

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Santa Clara, Alajuela Province, CRI
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Santa Clara, Alajuela Province, CRI
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Santa Clara, Alajuela Province, CRI
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Santa Clara, Alajuela Province, CRI
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Santa Clara car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Clara

Renting a car in Santa Clara provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the picturesque surroundings at your own pace. This village is an excellent starting point for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions such as Arenal Volcano National Park, located 14 miles away, where you can enjoy stunning views and outdoor activities. The La Fortuna Waterfall, just 12 miles from Santa Clara, offers a romantic and adventurous setting ideal for hiking and photography. Additionally, Baldi Hot Springs, 14 miles away, invites you to unwind in natural thermal waters.

A rental car also makes it convenient to explore nearby cities like La Fortuna, located 11 miles away, where you can find more attractions including Tabacon Hot Springs. Jabillos, only 2 miles from Santa Clara, offers easy access to both Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall. Whether you are traveling with family, managing luggage, or seeking adventure, having your own vehicle ensures a comfortable and efficient way to experience the beauty of Costa Rica.

Where to stay around Santa Clara

  • Santa Clara: As the central hub of Florencia, Santa Clara offers convenient access to various outdoor and adventure activities. Visitors can explore the area's lush scenery and nearby attractions like the Arenal Volcano and Arenal Volcano National Park, both known for their stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities. Santa Clara also has dining options to enjoy local cuisine, making it an ideal base for your stay.
  • La Fortuna: Located 11 miles from Santa Clara, La Fortuna is a vibrant city popular for its adventure and scenic experiences. It is home to the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano and the beautiful La Fortuna Waterfall, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can also relax at the Tabacon Hot Springs, a great wellness retreat after a day of exploring. La Fortuna boasts numerous restaurants and cafes, providing a variety of food and drink options.
  • Monterrey: Situated 16 miles from Santa Clara, Monterrey is known for its outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. This city offers easy access to the Arenal Volcano National Park, allowing travelers to embark on hiking and adventure experiences. Visitors can unwind in the nearby Tabacon Hot Springs, ideal for relaxation after a day of exploration. Monterrey also features local dining options, enhancing your travel experience.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Santa Clara

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit 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 ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you increase your chances of securing lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under 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 economical choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable too; just remember 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 the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  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 in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santa Clara

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Santa Clara

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

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

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Santa Clara?
Cheap car rentals started at a day in Santa Clara, based on prices within the past seven days. With rates like this, we make it easy to grab some keys and take off for less.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Clara car reservation?
You should be eligible for a total refund on your reservation if you advise us a minimum of six hours ahead of picking up the car. Read through your policy for all the info. Our Customer Service Portal may have the answers too.
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Clara?
There's lots on offer in Santa Clara, but head farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Grab a set of wheels and you can roam around the surrounding region at your leisure. Add these awesome drives to your travel plan:
  • San José is about 40 miles from Santa Clara. Famous sights like National Museum of Costa Rica deserve to be high on your list while you're in town.
  • Located 65 miles away, Liberia is also a favorite with travelers. Make sure you get to Liberia Parque Central while you're in town. It's one of the reasons people love staying a while in this city.
  • Make your way to Corcovado National Park to feel grounded in nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy or just sit and unwind. From Santa Clara, it's about 140 miles away.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Clara with Expedia?
Check out customer reviews, choose your preferred car class and compare prices from top brands. Expedia makes it easy to get the best deal on your rental wheels. Bundle your Santa Clara car rental with hotel or flight bookings and drive away with even more savings.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Clara?
Most rental companies will need these two things — a current driver's license and a credit card in your name. If you'd like to opt out of the provider's insurance plan, proof of your own coverage may also be needed. Read through your policy so you know what to bring when it's time to pick up the keys.
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Clara?
Santa Clara has had some happy rental car drivers lately. Daily prices within the past seven days dropped as low as and . 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 Santa Clara?
Yes, which means you won't need to rebook a rental car in the middle of your vacation. Head to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your travel dates and lock in a ride to call your own for however long you want.
Where can I find a Santa Clara car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Santa Clara outlets will rent to drivers under 25 years old, and others won't. Policies differ from supplier to supplier, so you should do some research. Also, find out if there are any extra costs. Some outlets will apply a surcharge to customers between 21 and 24. Be sure to read through the terms and conditions to avoid any surprise fees.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Santa Clara?
It's wise to have collision protection to safeguard your Santa Clara rental car against theft, accident damage and vandalism. And with Expedia, it's easy to purchase this insurance for your vehicle at the time of booking. Providing up to $35,000 in primary coverage, it also offers round-the-clock emergency assistance and a zero-dollar deductible if you need to make a claim. Change of plans? If you cancel your insurance before your scheduled pick-up time, you'll get a 100 percent refund.
Can I drive in Santa Clara with my current driver's license?
If you don't possess a driver's license issued in Costa Rica, then you may need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country to be allowed to rent a car. It's also important to note that if an IDP is required, it won't be valid on its own. You'll be asked to show your driver's license from your home country your passport and other forms of ID 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 additional requirements for international car rentals are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 or over in most places 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 what kinds of cars you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the rules and regulations before you drive away. Usually, you can't cross country borders, drive onto ferries or go off-roading with a rental vehicle.

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