Car Rental Malpais

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Malpais

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in Malpais

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Malpais, Puntarenas Province, CRI
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Malpais, Puntarenas Province, CRI
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Malpais, Puntarenas Province, CRI
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Malpais, Puntarenas Province, CRI
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Malpais
View all cars

What you need to know for your Malpais car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Malpais

Renting a car in Malpais offers the freedom to explore this beautiful area at your own pace. With a rental, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it a popular choice for those looking for beach and outdoor adventure experiences. You’ll find Santa Teresa Beach just 3 miles away, perfect for relaxing in the sun or enjoying water activities. A short drive of 6 miles will take you to the stunning Montezuma Falls, ideal for outdoor adventures and a touch of romance. For a unique outing, Cabuya Island is located 5 miles from Malpais, providing excellent opportunities for beach and outdoor experiences. Additionally, you can explore nearby destinations like Cóbano, which features attractions like Montezuma Beach, or visit the vibrant city of Santa Teresa, only 3 miles away, offering more beaches and local culture. Even Carmen, just 1 mile from Malpais, has its own beautiful beaches worth discovering. A rental car not only enhances your convenience but also allows you to embrace the diverse experiences that Malpais and its surroundings have to offer.

Where to stay around Malpais

  • Malpais: This serene destination is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful beach escape. With beautiful stretches of coastline, it's perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. Nearby attractions include Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, located 4 miles away, offering stunning scenery and adventure options like snorkeling and yoga. For dining, local restaurants provide a taste of Costa Rican cuisine, enhancing your stay in this tranquil area.
  • Cóbano: As a central hub for exploring the region, Cóbano offers a variety of accommodations, from resorts to cozy lodgings. The city is known for its vibrant beach culture and adventure experiences. Key attractions include Montezuma Falls and Santa Teresa Beach, both within close reach, making it a great base for outdoor activities. Enjoy a range of nearby dining options after a day of exploration.
  • Santa Teresa: A charming village located 3 miles from Malpais, Santa Teresa is a hotspot for beach lovers and adventure seekers. The area boasts stunning beaches, such as Santa Teresa Beach and Hermosa Beach, perfect for sunbathing and surfing. With various resorts and local eateries, you can enjoy a lively atmosphere while being close to nature and outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable stay.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and specific features you need. Whether it's an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost savings, using filters on Expedia can help you discover the perfect match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your rental car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically have lower rental fees and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded locations. Mid-size vehicles offer a balanced combination of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and specific vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury cars—might not be available to them. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age restrictions before you make a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most economical option. Other policies might include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental at the airport often incurs an additional fee, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  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 provide peace of mind during your travels. Adding insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent added fees.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary for renting a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Malpais

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Malpais

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

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

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 Malpais?
Daily rental prices were as low as within the past seven days. With rates like this, getting around Malpais in your own set of wheels is an affordable way to visit the sights.
What happens if I need to cancel my Malpais car reservation?
You should get your money back on your booking if you let us know at least six hours ahead of picking up the car. Check your rental policy for the finer details. Our Customer Service Portal may have the answers too.
Where can I go on a road trip from Malpais?
There's so much to do in Malpais, but venture farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Pick up a set of wheels and you can discover the surrounding area at your own speed. Add these awesome places to your itinerary:
  • San José is roughly 75 miles from Malpais. Famous attractions like National Museum of Costa Rica deserve to be high on your must-see list while you're in town.
  • Situated 75 miles away, Liberia is also popular with travelers. Make time to take in Liberia Parque Central while you're in town. It's one of the reasons people love visiting this colorful city.
  • Spend time in the great outdoors and inhale the fresh air at Corcovado National Park. It's about 130 miles from Malpais.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Malpais with Expedia?
Check out ratings and reviews, choose your car type and compare offers from top brands. Expedia makes it easy to track down the best deal on your rental wheels. Combine your Malpais car rental with hotel or flight bookings and hit the road with even more in your wallet.
What do you need to rent a car in Malpais?
Your driver's license and a credit card in the same name are necessities. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? Then you may also need proof of other coverage. The requirements may differ from rental company to rental company, so read your policy thoroughly.
What is the cheapest car rental in Malpais?
Based on prices within the past seven days, you could've taken the wheel of a rental car for just per day. The second lowest daily rate in Malpais was . 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 Malpais?
Visit our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then lock in a ride that suits. Whether you're basing yourself in Malpais or road-tripping about, Expedia will help you find a long-term rental at an incredible rate.
Where can I find a Malpais car rental if I am younger than 25?
This depends on the rental car companies operating in Malpais. They often have different policies when it comes to minimum ages. If you've found a supplier that does cater to drivers under 25, bear in mind that extra costs may apply. Conduct some research into any extra charges before picking up your vehicle.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Malpais?
Start your road trip the right way by purchasing Expedia's collision damage protection. While there are many types of insurance, this is one you'll need to have. It provides primary coverage for collision damage, vandalism and theft up to $35,000, as well as round-the-clock emergency assistance. Don't wait until you arrive at the rental counter to insure your ride. Opt in to collision protection while reserving your Malpais ride with Expedia and save money and time.
Can I drive in Malpais with my current driver's license?
If you don't hold a driver's license issued in Costa Rica, then it's likely you'll need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country to be able to rent a car. Also consider 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 identification 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 many countries 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 available to rent.
  • Driving limitations: Make sure you read the fine print before driving away. You typically can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or on certain types of rugged terrain with a rental car.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia