Car hire Costa Rica: search your car for your dream trip

Car hires in Costa Rica: practical information

Where to rent a car in Costa Rica

Heading to Costa Rica for holidays? This tropical paradise won't disappoint. Once you arrive off of your flights to Costa Rica, head on over to the car hire desk at the airport to pick up a Costa Rica car hire airport. Rental cars are essential for getting around, especially if you want to explore more places that aren't serviced by public transportation (which is very likely). At the airport, you'll find all the major international car hire companies but it's also possible to pick up a rent car in cities like San Jose.

Driving in Costa Rica: parking and other tips

Let's talk about speed first. In urban centres there is a speed limit of 40km/h but 60km/h once you get outside the city, unless otherwise noted. There is no tolerance for drinking and driving in Costa Rica. Traffic is Costa Rica is a totally different game than in the UK. Constant attention is needed when you're behind the wheel.

As for parking, it's always a good idea to leave your car in a guarded lot as opposed to just parking on the street. There are guarded lots in most all cities in Costa Rica and especially in tourist areas so this should not be a problem.

Road trips in Costa Rica: what to do, what to see

San Jose

The capital of Costa Rica, San Jose is built on the plateau of the Central Valley and is surrounded by lush green mountains and beautiful valleys. The city centre may appear run down at first glance, but the old-age architecture and the friendly locals will quickly win you over. The best way to discover San Jose is with a walking tour. On the way, don't miss the Gold Museum, the National Museum or the MADC, the Museum of Contemporary Art.

El Arenal

El Arenal is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world and it's still active. One of the biggest attractions is to hike up the side of the volcano at night to watch the red-hot fiery lava flowing down the side of the mountain. The road and rumbling of the volcano is a sound like you've never heard before, something you'll always remember. Nearby is also an impressive waterfall, best seen in day.

Corcovado

One of the main reasons so many flock to Costa Rica for holidays is because of the gorgeous beaches. Corcovado National Park is no exception, even though it's not in the main tourist region of the country. Located on the Osa Peninsular, Corcovado is known for two things: its incredible wildlife (known as "the most biologically intense place on earth") and its black sand beaches.