Car rental in Costa Rica
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Car Hire in Costa Rica with Sixt
Sixt is dedicated to making car hire in Costa Rica a breeze for customers. With several Sixt stations in Costa Rica, including one at San José airport, coupled with an online booking system whereby customers can ask for their vehicles and have them ready to pick up on arrival, they make the car hire process easy.Boasting a fleet including 4x4 vehicles, convertibles and choices of manual or automatic transmission, car rental in Costa Rica with Sixt endeavours to match all needs.
Driving Customs of Costa Rica
While driving your car rental through Costa Rica, be mindful that driving there may not be the same as when you're driving at home. These are some Costa Rican rules to keep in mind:
- The Pan-American Highway, the main mode of travel for most car users, has a normal speed limit of 50-55mph (80kmph). This highway passes through several small towns, however, and limits are known to drop to around 15-20mph (30kmph) in these areas due to schools.
- Sinkholes, potholes, or uncovered manholes are usually marked with a pole or tree branch poking out of the road, making it a good idea to avoid these hazards.
- Due to the differing qualities of fuel, it is recommended to use super gas, not normal gas, as that can cause maintenance problems in some cars.
Satellite navigation can be invaluable, as road signs are infrequent, and the most common method of getting directions involves marking a distance and direction from a local landmark.
- Sinkholes, potholes, or uncovered manholes are usually marked with a pole or tree branch poking out of the road, making it a good idea to avoid these hazards.
- Due to the differing qualities of fuel, it is recommended to use super gas, not normal gas, as that can cause maintenance problems in some cars.
Satellite navigation can be invaluable, as road signs are infrequent, and the most common method of getting directions involves marking a distance and direction from a local landmark.
Where to visit with your rental car in Costa Rica
After collecting your car rental from San José, you may wish to drive out to near one of Costa Rica's lush forests and bird watch for a while, to experience some of Costa Rica's beautiful wildlife. Alternatively, collect your car rental from Liberia Airport and drive the distance to one of Costa Rica's scenic beaches for a seaside picnic or to enjoy some of the best surfing opportunities offered by the Pacific Ocean. Yet another Costa Rican tourist attraction is the rafting, pick up your car from San José or Liberia and find a river to have an exciting rafting experience on. Sixt is the ideal car hire for getting the most out of a holiday to Costa Rica.
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Good to know when renting in Costa Rica
Car rental under 25 in Costa Rica
The minimum age for a SIXT rental in Costa Rica is 18, with a driver’s license held for at least 1 year. Some car categories have a higher minimum rental age, and a young driver surcharge applies to those under 21.
Car rental without a credit card in Costa Rica
Cash payment in the local currency or US dollars are accepted for the rental, but you will also need to present a credit card as a guarantee. SIXT does not accept prepaid or debit cards in Costa Rica.
Documents you need to rent a car in Costa Rica
Everyone will need a valid driver’s license held for at least 1 year. Costa Ricans also need an ID, while foreign renters will need their passport.
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FAQs about rentals in Costa Rica
Border restrictions
It is not allowed to take your SIXT rental outside of Costa Rica. Doing so will void your vehicle’s protection.
One-way car rental in Costa Rica
We allow one-way rentals between SIXT stations in Costa Rica, depending on the tariff.
Flexible rental options
If your travel plans might change, don’t worry. Select the Pay Later option when booking and cancel your SIXT reservation for free.
What's the minimum age to rent a car in Costa Rica?
To rent a car with SIXT at Costa Rica you need to be at least 18 with a valid license. Some car categories have a higher minimum rental age, and an underage driver fee may apply.
Can I modify, extend, or cancel my reservation?
At SIXT you can either pay online or when you pick up your car in Costa Rica.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Costa Rica?
You need a valid driver’s license held for at least 1 year, depending on the car category. You might also need an International Driving Permit or official translation of the license.
Can I book a long-term car rental in Costa Rica?
Whether you’re planning to stay in Costa Rica or travel beyond, it’s easy to reserve a long-term rental. Enter your trip dates and pick-up/drop-off locations and we’ll find you affordable long-term car rental deals.
Do I need to purchase insurance or protection packages with my rental in Costa Rica?
A damage waiver is included with your car rental. You can add other protection products to reduce your excess.
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