Car Rental Arenal

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Top Car Deals in Arenal

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Arenal, Guanacaste, CRI
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Arenal, Guanacaste, CRI
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Arenal, Guanacaste, CRI
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Arenal, Guanacaste, CRI
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Arenal car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Arenal

Renting a car in Arenal provides travelers with the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful region at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting attractions like Lake Arenal, located only 3 miles away, which offers stunning scenery and outdoor experiences. For those seeking relaxation, the Tabacon Hot Springs, situated 12 miles from Arenal, is an ideal destination for wellness and rejuvenation. Additionally, the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, located 10 miles away, allows you to immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty. A rental car also makes it convenient to visit nearby cities, such as Nuevo Arenal and Aguacate, both rich in attractions like Tenorio Volcano National Park and Arenal Volcano National Park. Whether you're an adventure seeker or someone looking to unwind, having your own transportation ensures that you can create a travel itinerary that fits your specific interests and needs. With the ability to explore popular destinations and hidden gems alike, renting a car in Arenal is a practical choice for a memorable Costa Rican adventure.

Where to stay in and around Arenal

  • Nuevo Arenal: Nuevo Arenal is a picturesque village that offers a blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. This area is known for its proximity to attractions such as Lake Arenal, perfect for a romantic getaway or scenic exploration. Visitors can indulge in wellness experiences at the Tabacon Hot Springs or enjoy the breathtaking views from the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. With various resorts and spas nearby, Nuevo Arenal provides ample opportunities for relaxation and adventure.
  • Tronadora: Located only 4 miles from Arenal, Tronadora is a vibrant city that caters to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure. It features exciting activities such as the Selvatura Adventure Park, which offers a thrilling zipline ropes course. The stunning Lake Arenal is also nearby, providing a beautiful setting for leisure and exploration. In addition, Tronadora boasts various restaurants, making it a convenient base for travelers looking to experience both adventure and local cuisine.
  • Mata de Cana: Mata de Cana is a charming village known for its adventure and scenic beauty. It is conveniently located near the Arenal Volcano National Park, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature and explore the majestic Arenal Volcano. The area also features Lake Arenal, ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation. With numerous adventure activities available, Mata de Cana is perfect for those looking to enjoy the thrill of ziplining while being surrounded by stunning landscapes.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your travel date. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy greater 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 offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also pertain to renters over the age of 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 generally the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well, but ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for picking up your rental car at airports, but this convenience might justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. 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 car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Arenal

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Arenal

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

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
Car suppliers available
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 Arenal?
The lowest daily price for a rental car in Arenal within the past seven days was . In the comfort of your own vehicle, it's easy to cruise to whichever landmarks are calling your name.
What happens if I need to cancel my Arenal car reservation?
There are always times when plans suddenly change. That's why we give a full refund on the majority of rentals if you let us know a minimum of six hours in advance of the pickup time. Remember to double-check the rental agreement — in some cases it's not offered. Found nothing there? Our Customer Service Portal has more useful information.
Where can I go on a road trip from Arenal?
Arenal offers adventures galore, but don't restrict yourself to only one place. Organize a set of wheels and hit the open road to see what else awaits in the surrounding region. Here are some places to consider:
  • San José is approximately 70 miles from Arenal. Popular attractions like National Museum of Costa Rica deserve to be high on your must-see list while you're in town.
  • Located 40 miles away, Liberia is also popular with travelers. Be sure to check out Liberia Parque Central while you're in town. It's one of the reasons people love coming to this colorful city.
  • Get out into the great outdoors and breathe in some fresh air at Corcovado National Park. It's 170 miles from Arenal.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Arenal with Expedia?
Whatever type of wheels you're after, Expedia will help you track down the best deal. Compare the offers from top rental providers and book the option that suits you. Love to drive away with even more in your wallet? Combine your Arenal car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
What do you need to rent a car in Arenal?
Before you can take the wheel in Arenal, you'll need a valid driver's license and a credit card. If you choose not to take out the company's insurance policy, you may also have to provide proof of alternative coverage. Rules may vary, so understand the policy terms and conditions before you select a rental company.
What is the cheapest car rental in Arenal?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a rental vehicle in Arenal was . The next lowest was a day. 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 Arenal?
Click through to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your preferences and then book a ride that suits. Whether you're staying in Arenal or venturing far beyond, Expedia will help you find a long-term rental at a fabulous rate.
Where can I find an Arenal car rental if I am younger than 25?
Renting a vehicle if you are under 25 years old in Arenal often depends on the rental provider you choose. Some businesses apply a surcharge for customers between 21 and 24 years of age, but others may not apply any additional fees for this age range. It'd be smart to read the terms and conditions of your selected rental dealer to escape extra charges on pickup.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Arenal?
Start your road trip right by selecting Expedia's collision protection. While there are many types of car rental insurance, this is one you should have. It provides primary coverage for accident damage, theft and vandalism up to $35,000, as well as 24/7 emergency help. Don't wait until you get to the rental counter to insure your wheels. Opt in to collision protection while booking your Arenal ride with Expedia and save time and money.
Can I drive in Arenal with my current driver's license?
If you don't have 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. Please also consider that if an IDP is required, it won't be valid on its own. You'll be asked to show your current license your passport and other forms of ID as well. Lastly, make sure the credit card you used to book the rental vehicle matches the name on your license and passport. Some other things to note for international car rentals are:
  • Age restrictions: You must be at least 25 in most places to rent a car. If you're younger than that, it may 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 vehicles you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the rules and regulations before driving away. With rental cars, you usually can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or on certain types of rugged terrain with your rental car.

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