Download Google maps for offline access
Before the trip, we recommend that you download the necessary maps to the Google Maps application on your smartphone. This will allow you to build travel routes and use offline navigation on the ground. Thus, you can significantly save on Internet roaming charges, as well as on the "Navigator" service. Downloading the map is easy. You should select the required area, set the desired scale and enter "ok maps" in the search field.
Book a car 6 weeks in advance
Costa Rica is a popular tourist destination, so car rental is consistently in demand. The earlier you book a car, the more options there will be and the lower the prices will be. Choose transport online at least 6 weeks before your visit. Better yet, do it as soon as you start planning your vacation. If plans change, you can cancel your booking without penalty up to 48 hours before it starts.
Which car to choose for rent
The compact model is relevant for city trips in Costa Rica. It can be Fiat Panda or Opel Astra. Mountain routes require a more powerful four-wheel drive vehicle - Opel Insignia Estate or similar model. You can order an SUV for just €44 per day;
What you need to pay attention to at the time of receiving a car
Before picking up, you are required to carefully inspect the car and point out to the rental company manager for scratches, damage and defects, such as dirty seat upholstery. You should check the ignition and the fuel level in the tank. You need to know the conditions for returning the car - where exactly, with what amount of fuel to return the car.
The rental agreement must include a telephone number to contact the rental company. It is designed so that customers can get help in emergency situations, such as when a car breaks down or in the event of an accident. A call to the rental company should be done first, even before the arrival of the police.
Rental companies in Costa Rica may offer different insurance options. They differ in price and set of options. Here are the basic types:
- Third Party Liability (TPL)/Third Liability Protection (TLP). This is a third party liability protection. If you are the culprit of an accident, the insurance will compensate for the costs of the victims for you.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). This is to protect your vehicle from any damage. She works with a franchise. This is the amount that you will have to pay in case of damage in any case. The company will cover anything over the limit. The insurance does not cover theft.
- Theft Insurance (TI)/Theft Protection (TP)/Theft Waiver (TW). This is car theft protection. Operates with a franchise.
- Super Loss Damage Waiver (SLDW)/Theft Protection+Collision Damage Waiver (TP+CDW). Full protection against theft and damage, even if you are the culprit of the accident.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). This is medical insurance for the driver and passengers.
If you want to save money and choose the cheapest insurance, carefully inspect the car upon receipt. Make sure the machine is not damaged. 
For trips over long distances, it is better to choose the option with the already included payment for a full tank. If you have a short trip, then this service is inappropriate. Be sure to read the fuel policy before making a booking:
If necessary, use the special filter to select the most convenient option for you.
The rental company may set a daily mileage limit. You will have to pay extra for exceeding the limit. Please check this condition before booking. It is possible that a more expensive rental option will turn out to be more profitable in the end: it will not require any additional expenses. To filter cars with unlimited mileage - use the "Mileage" filter in the search results.
Compare prices and conditions from different car rental companies
When choosing a rental car in Costa Rica, you should carefully read all the terms of the rental. This is due to the fact that different companies may differ not only in rental prices, but also in conditions for limiting mileage, the cost of additional services, and the amount of the deposit. To compare rental conditions, it is convenient to use the search and booking system on our website.
Which rental company to choose
Pay attention to the car park. Large and reliable companies regularly buy new cars.
Our clients name the top companies in Costa Rica - EUROPCAR with an average rating 9.9 points and SIXT with 9 points.
We show all the rental conditions of different companies. Read the rules carefully before booking a car.
Getting a car at a rental office
You should show a voucher and personal documents. A manager draws up a lease agreement. The deposit is blocked on the card.
Before leaving the rental, turn on the ignition, find out the amount of fuel and compare it with what is written in the contract.
Inspect the car carefully. Point out to the manager any paint chips and scuffs. The employee must record the damage. Take a photo yourself: they should show the defect, the number of the car and the employee of the rental company. This will help to avoid problems when returning the car: it will prove that it was not you who torn the upholstery or scratched the fender.
