Renting a Car in Costa Rica
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Costa Rica independently. The country has both international and well-regarded local rental agencies. A 4x4 (SUV or crossover) is strongly recommended for most itineraries, as many popular destinations require driving on unpaved roads. Mandatory liability insurance (SLI/TPL) is required by Costa Rican law for all rental vehicles.
Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?
If you plan to explore beyond major tourist hubs, a rental car gives you the most freedom. A 4x4 SUV is strongly recommended for rural areas. Local agencies like Adobe and Vamos often offer better service and pricing than international chains.
Insurance Is Critical
Costa Rica requires mandatory liability insurance (SLI/TPL) on all rental vehicles. This is separate from collision/theft coverage (CDW/LDW). Many US credit card rental insurance policies specifically exclude Costa Rica. Always confirm your coverage before declining the agency's insurance.
Rental Tips
- Always get full insurance coverage -- Costa Rica's mandatory liability insurance (SLI) is separate from collision/theft coverage (CDW/LDW)
- 4x4 (high-clearance SUV) recommended for rural areas, Monteverde, Osa Peninsula, and many beach towns
- Book in advance during high season (December-April) as vehicles sell out
- Inspect the car thoroughly before leaving the lot and document all existing damage with photos
- Most agencies require drivers to be at least 21-25 years old with a valid license and credit card
- A credit card hold of $750-$2,000 is typical for the insurance deductible
- GPS/Waze on your phone is more reliable than rental GPS units
- Fuel policy is usually full-to-full; confirm before departing
- Child car seats can be rented from most agencies; reserve in advance
- Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance that is valid in Costa Rica (many US cards exclude Costa Rica)
- Consider local agencies like Adobe and Vamos, which often provide better service and pricing than international chains
- Airport pickup fees may apply; compare picking up at the airport vs. a nearby office
Agency Comparison
Prices are approximate daily rates and vary by vehicle type, season, and insurance options.
| Agency | Type | Price Range | Locations | Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Rent a Car | Local | $40-$120/day | SJO Airport (Juan Santamaria), Liberia Airport (Daniel Oduber), San Jose Downtown +4 more | Full coverage available including zero-deductible option. Mandatory SLI included. CDW and extended coverage optional. |
| Vamos Rent a Car | Local | $35-$100/day | SJO Airport (shuttle from office nearby), Liberia Airport area, San Jose (main office) | Full coverage available. Mandatory SLI included. Zero-deductible option available for additional fee. |
| Budget | International | $50-$150/day | SJO Airport (Juan Santamaria), Liberia Airport (Daniel Oduber), San Jose Downtown +1 more | Mandatory SLI included. CDW/LDW available. Full coverage packages offered. |
| National Car Rental | International | $50-$140/day | SJO Airport (Juan Santamaria), Liberia Airport (Daniel Oduber), San Jose | Mandatory SLI included. Optional CDW and supplemental liability coverage available. |
| Alamo Rent a Car | International | $45-$140/day | SJO Airport (Juan Santamaria), Liberia Airport (Daniel Oduber) | Mandatory SLI included. CDW and supplemental coverage available. |
| Hertz | International | $55-$160/day | SJO Airport (Juan Santamaria), Liberia Airport (Daniel Oduber), San Jose +1 more | Mandatory SLI included. Full range of CDW, theft protection, and personal accident insurance options. |
| Economy Rent a Car | Local | $30-$90/day | SJO Airport area (shuttle service), Liberia Airport area, San Jose | Mandatory SLI included. CDW and full coverage options available. |
| Wild Rider | Local | $35-$95/day | SJO Airport area (shuttle from nearby office), San Jose (main office) | Mandatory SLI included. Optional CDW and zero-deductible packages available. |
Recommended Local Agencies
Local Costa Rican agencies consistently receive higher customer satisfaction ratings and often include extras like free additional drivers, coolers, and child seats.
Adobe Rent a Car
- Website
- www.adobecar.com
Vamos Rent a Car
- Website
- www.vamosrentacar.com
Economy Rent a Car
- Website
- www.economyrentacar.com
Wild Rider
- Website
- www.wildridercr.com
Booking Tip
Book early during high season (December through April). Vehicles, especially 4x4 SUVs, sell out quickly. Booking directly with the agency's website often yields better terms than third-party booking sites.