Planning on renting a car in Costa Rica? Excellent choice! We think Costa Rica is one of the most stunning places in the world, and because many of its best spots and activities are spread out, we reckon it’s best to have your own set of wheels here, as it means you can explore at your own pace and venture off the beaten path.
That said, before you rent a vehicle and start driving in Costa Rica, you probably have a few questions you want answered. Well, that’s where I come in. We’ve rented a car here. So, I know the rules of the road here, the best road trips to take, and the best car rental companies in Costa Rica!
So, below, you will find an extensive list of 8 things you should know before renting a car in Costa Rica. Hopefully, it will make the process much easier for you.
Is it worth renting a car in Costa Rica?
Yes, it’s definitely worth renting a car in Costa Rica as it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Yup, one of the biggest perks of having a car is the flexibility it offers, as you can create your own Costa Rica itinerary.
(Reliable) public buses in Costa Rica typically only run from city to city or between major towns, and they don’t always follow a schedule that aligns with your plans. Plus, if you hope to stay in a smaller town or beach area, getting around without a car can be frustrating and, honestly, also pretty time-consuming.
When you have your own wheels, you’re not tied down. Want to leave early to catch the sunrise over the mountains? Go ahead. Feel like spending an extra hour at that beach you just found and fell in love with? No problem.
A car also allows you to avoid rushing. Instead of being herded on and off a tour bus, you can linger where you want and skip the stops that don’t interest you. Plus, Costa Rica’s roads can be winding, and long bus rides can feel cramped and tiring. Renting a car puts you in control of the journey.
You can stop when you need to stretch, grab a snack, or take in a stunning view. With air conditioning and the ability to choose the right size vehicle for your group, you’ll feel more relaxed on the road. This makes a big difference if you’re planning to drive longer distances, like from San José to the Pacific coast or up into the mountains around Monteverde.
What are the best road trips in Costa Rica?
One of the most popular routes here is the drive from San José to Arenal Volcano National Park. Along this drive, you can explore hot springs, lush rainforests, and the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall.
Another must-do road trip is the scenic drive to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. This route is renowned for its mist-shrouded treetops and rich wildlife, including the quetzal (a very colorful bird – that is Costa Rica’s national bird).
If you’re a beach-lover, the drive along the Pacific Coast from Jaco to Manuel Antonio National Park will give you access to pristine beaches, diverse marine life, and the chance to enjoy activities like surfing and zip-lining.
And finally, one of our favorite places to drive around was the Nicoya Peninsula, as it offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience, with its charming towns (we especially loved Sámara, Montezuma, and Nosara), secluded beaches, and incredible sunsets.
🛣️ Our favorite road trips in Costa Rica:
- San José to Arenal Volcano National Park
- Jaco to Manuel Antonio National Park
- Drive along the Nicoya Peninsula – stopping off in cute towns like Sámara, Nosara, and Montezuma
In short, with a Car Rental, you’ll be able to find these places in your own time and at your own pace. Public transport rarely reaches the areas I’ve listed above, and even if it does, the schedules can be sparse. That’s why having a rental car allows you to head down the backroads and discover these places (that most visitors never see!)
Imagine taking a detour to a family-owned restaurant you spotted along the road or stopping at a local fruit stand in a rural town. These moments are what give you a sense of the country beyond the tourist trail.
What are the rules for renting a car in Costa Rica?
The most important thing you will need when renting a car in Costa Rica is a valid driver’s license. No company will allow you to do so without one. While an International Driving Permit is not mandatory, it can be helpful.
Also, drivers must be at least 21 years old, although some rental agencies may require drivers to be 25 or older.
Most rental companies will require you to have a credit card for the security deposit. Additionally, basic insurance coverage is mandatory in Costa Rica, and rental agencies often include this in their rates, though it’s best to review the coverage details beforehand. You may want to consider additional insurance for peace of mind.
Another great thing about renting in Costa Rica is the variety of cars available. Not every trip calls for the same type of vehicle, and you can choose what fits your plans best.
- Compact cars: Ideal if you’re mainly staying in cities or along well-paved roads.
- SUVs or 4x4s: Perfect if you’re heading to remote beaches, national parks or mountainous areas.
- Luxury vehicles: A great option if you want to add a touch of comfort and style to your journey.
What is the average price of renting a car in Costa Rica?
The cost of renting a car in Costa Rica varies based on several factors, including the type of car, the duration of the rental, and the location you’re renting from.
On average, you can expect to pay between $30 to $70 USD (15,000 – 35,000 Colones) per day for a standard car.
Larger cars like SUVs or 4x4s will cost more, typically ranging from $80 to $100 USD (40,000 – 50,000 Colones) per day.
Prices will also vary depending on the time of year. You will notice higher rates during peak tourist periods (like from December through April). Additionally, extras such as insurance, GPS navigation, and child seats may incur additional costs. And of course, gas, tolls, and parking fees will be extra, too.
Overall, the longer you choose to rent a vehicle, the more cost-effective it will be for you. And so we recommend picking up your rental car at the airport once you land. That way, you won’t have to pay for a taxi; you can simply grab your keys and be on your way.
Having a car from the beginning sets the tone for the rest of your trip. You’ll be able to head straight to your accommodation without stress and start exploring as soon as you’re settled!
My tips for understanding the roads in Costa Rica
It’s worth knowing that Costa Rican roads can vary a lot. Highways are generally well-maintained, but once you get into rural areas, you may encounter potholes, narrow roads, or steep inclines. During the rainy season, some routes can get muddy or washed out.
This is why many travelers choose SUVs or 4x4s, even if they don’t plan to go too far off the beaten path. Being prepared for changing conditions helps you feel more secure behind the wheel. Navigation apps are helpful, but it’s smart to download offline maps just in case service drops in remote areas.
You’ll save time
Time is precious when you’re exploring a country as diverse as Costa Rica. While buses are cheap, they can be slow and take longer routes. A drive that takes three hours by car can stretch into six hours by bus, due to all the stops.
Renting a car lets you maximize your time. Instead of spending hours waiting around for public transport, you can get to your next destination quickly and use that extra time to enjoy yourself. Whether it’s fitting in another beach visit or arriving earlier at a national park to beat the crowds, saving time enhances the overall experience.
You can build your own adventure
One of the biggest perks of renting a car in Costa Rica is the ability to shape your trip however you want. You don’t have to stick to someone else’s schedule or feel limited by where public transport goes.
With your own vehicle here, you can:
- Plan a full road trip that takes you across the country, stopping at major highlights like La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio.
- Add in detours whenever you see something interesting along the way, like a hidden beach, local food stand, or roadside waterfall.
- Base yourself in one location and take day trips in different directions to see more of the surrounding region.
- Adjust your plans on the fly if you fall in love with a spot and want to stay longer or if the weather calls for a change in direction.
- Travel as structured or as spontaneous as you like, creating a balance between planned destinations and unexpected discoveries.
A rental car offers safety and peace of mind
Many travelers worry about safety when driving in another country, but having your own vehicle can actually provide peace of mind. You’re in control of your environment, and you don’t have to worry about crowded buses or being dependent on strangers for transportation.
As long as you follow the rules of the road, drive carefully, and stick to well-traveled routes when possible, driving in Costa Rica is manageable.
Where to Stay in Costa Rica:
We really like the Nicoya Peninsula, and so, we spent a good chunk of our time here. We based ourselves in Samara at the Residencias Samara. Our room was bright and airy, and the pool was great.
We also spent some time in Manuel Antonio, and here we stayed at the lovely Falls Resort – their outdoor pool is gorgeous!
And finally, in Monteverde, we stayed at and loved Hotel Poco a Poco.
Thanks for Reading!
Traveling through Costa Rica is an adventure in itself, and renting a car is one of the best ways to make it even more memorable. It gives you so much more freedom to just drive around as much and as often as you like, playing your favorite tunes and making memories to last a lifetime.
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Last Updated on December 8, 2025 by snaphappytravel