This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car hire in San José with a pick-up date of 19/10 and drop-off date of 2/11. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of hire. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
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Cheap car hire in San José
Discover the best prices for you by selecting your travel dates on KAYAK.
Best prices found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.
Booking Insights
Good to know
Most popular agency
Most popular car type
Average price
Good deal
FlexWays
Economy
£29/day
£22/day
KAYAK’s insights & trends for San José car hire
Check out the latest trends and booking tips to hire a car in San José with confidence.
How far in advance should you book car hire in San José?
You should book your car hire in San José around 7 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.
What is the cheapest car hire company in San José?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest hire cars were found at Sixt (£7.46/day), keddy by Europcar (£9.39/day), and Amigo Rent A Car (£11.73/day). The cheapest car hire price was found at Sixt Edificio Galicia Avenida 39 (1.7 mi from city centre).
What is the best car hire company in San José?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car hire companies in San José are Budget (5.5, 18 reviews), Economy Rent a Car (4.5, 29 reviews), and Europcar (4.1, 32 reviews).
Economy cars (Hyundai i10 or similar) are the most popular type of vehicle to hire in San José. Economy cars in San José cost £47/day on average, though some users have found deals as low as £17/day.
What is the cheapest month to hire a car in San José?
The cheapest month to hire a car in San José is September at an average cost of £10/day. December is the most expensive month to hire a car in San José when prices are £40/day on average, which tends to be 62% above the yearly average hire price for San José.
What car hire company in San José has the most locations?
Sunnycars operates 9 locations in San José, more than any other car hire company.
They have poor wifi at the airport. Make sure you have data. Also if you have your own insurance, bring the documents that proves rental overseas is covered. Lastly make sure to ask for deposit when at drop off.
JoseDec 2024
if going to mountain area, an SUV is a must. a lot of hills which make ot harder on a small vehicle.
Verified travelerJun 2024
Book from a company you're familiar with or that you've rented with before.
Verified travelerJun 2024
Stick to major car rental companies to avoid paying high prices for 10 years old cars.
Grant's ArtFeb 2024
Good price for rental and insurance, also the truck we rented was perfect, only negative would be customer service desk was not very polite and had a get tf out of my face attitude when picking up and drop off They will also give you a hassle if the gasoline/ diesel gauge doesn’t say absolutely full, we filled it all the way up and there was maybe half a sliver off and they still charged us $20 other then that we had a great experience with this company just make sure you cover your butt with any car rental company in CR and you’ll be fine!!
Verified travelerMay 2023
Be on your toes driving in the city. Its not that difficult, but there are a lot of twists and turns and can be a little confusing. Download the area in Google maps first just in case.
KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in San José
When visiting Costa Rica you won’t want to miss some of its most scenic destinations like its waterfalls, forests, and volcanoes. Renting a car will let you be able to travel to some of the best hidden gems that are far off the beaten path. Additionally, you can drive to some of San Jose’s most popular tourist attractions like the San Jose Central Market or the Precolumbian Gold Museum.
San Jose International Airport serves San Jose and many other cities in and around central Costa Rica. When flying into this airport, you’ll find many car hire agencies just outside of the international flight arrival hall. Some of the agencies located here include Alamo, Avis, and Economy.
You won’t need an international driver’s license to legally drive in Costa Rica. All you’ll need is a pictured license from your country. If you are driving through rural areas, you’ll have to contend with dirt roads and lots of potholes. Note that, when it rains, the streets can get even worse -- possibly resulting in washouts -- so always be on the alert in rainstorms.
San Jose is a lively city with a large population, so traffic can get heavy at times. This is especially true during the peak hours of 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. during the morning commute, and in the evening from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. To avoid getting caught in a traffic jam, you should plan your travel around these times.
Always keep a watchful eye out for pedestrians and cyclists, especially at night. However, bear in mind that pedestrians don't have right of way. This means that they won't expect you to stop for them and, more importantly, neither will cars behind you. Pedestrians will certainly appreciate it if you slow down to let them pass, but just make sure you can do so safely. Motorcycles and scooters are commonly used in San José, and they often weave in between traffic lanes.
Once you find cheap car hire in San José, consider adding a GPS to your agreement, especially if you won't have access to online maps on your smartphone. GPS is always handy in unfamiliar cities, but Costa Rica is known for being especially confusing. Addresses in Costa Rica are often descriptive, meaning instead of numbers and street names, they're named by their proximity to other landmarks. Although San José has introduced more signage, addresses and directions can still be confusing for tourists. When you aren't familiar with the city, finding the landmarks you need for your destination can be tricky, so consider adding a sat nav system for some extra peace of mind.
Be prepared to wait if you need to cross over bridges while using cheap car hire in San José. It's very common for bridges in Costa Rica to be one-way with a single lane. There will usually be signs on either side of the bridge, indicating when you should yield and when you should take your turn. However, in practice, it's usually first come, first served, with all cars waiting on one side going through first before the other side gets its turn, regardless of the signage. Keep an eye out for signs stating 'Puente Adelante', meaning 'Bridge Ahead'.
25% of our users found a car hire in San José for £22 or less
Intermediate hire cars in San José are around 75% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about car hire in San José
What type of car is recommended for driving in San José?
To get to some towns close to San Jose you just might need a 4x4. This is definitely a necessity if you are traveling to the forest or visiting the country during the rainy season. Depending on where you want to go, a compact car might be more comfortable because of the tight, curvy roads. Diesel vehicles might also be more appealing because of the lower cost of fuel.
What’s the speed limit in San José?
Speed limits in San Jose might be lower than you are used to. On the freeway you may only drive at a maximum speed of 50 mph (or 80 km/h). When you are on a main highway, the speed limit may go up to as much as 62 mph (100 km/h). However, when you get close to the city, the speed limit will go down quickly -- so always pay attention to signs you might be passing.
Where are the best places to park in San José?
In downtown San Jose you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and museums. Consequently, there are numerous paid parking lots in which you can safely leave your hire car. One popular area for parking is around the Central Market. If staying downtown, you might also get free parking at your hotel.
How much does it cost to hire a car in San José?
On average a car hire in San José costs £29 per day.
Which car hire agencies are at Juan Santamaria Intl airport (SJO)?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
How much does an Economy car hire cost in San José?
An Economy car hire in San José costs £30 per day, on average.
How much does a Mini car hire cost in San José?
A Mini car hire in San José costs £29 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car hire cost in San José?
A Compact car hire in San José costs £22 per day, on average.
What is the most popular car hire location in San José?
In San José, cars are most frequently hired at keddy by Europcar San Jose Airport (8 miles from city centre).
Should I get insurance when hiring a car in San José?
Most car hire providers in San José offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car hire in San José, check out KAYAK's car hire insurance guide.
What paperwork do I need when driving in San José?
Along with your driver's licence and car hire paperwork, you'll also need to make sure you have your passport handy when you're driving. If you get pulled over for any reason, you'll need to present your licence and your passport (which needs to have a valid tourist visa stamp). This will confirm that you're able to use your usual driver's licence.
What regulations should I consider when driving with children in San José?
Booster seats are mandatory for children who are under 12 years old and under 145 cm tall. Your San José car hire company can usually provide you with a booster seat or child restraint if necessary, just make sure to let them know in advance.
Although it was advertised as in terminal, it really is not. Only thing they do at the terminal is checking the reservation and you are shuttled to other location. Waited 15 minutes for the shuttle. Also it's almost been a week and I still haven't got my deposit back.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jun 2024
SUV
Personnel at San Jose office was rude! He was upselling the car insurance which I told him isn’t necessary as we have coverage through Chase Sapphire Reserve which is the credit card I used to book reservations. He was unhappy that we declined the insurance and was very rude from then on. It was a real sad first impression of Costa Rica citizens.
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, Jun 2023
SUV
Only real thing I liked was how close it was to the airport and there being a shuttle. Otherwise, the first challenge was the insurance up sale. I purchased insurance during booking but then still had to purchase more insurance upon arrival. The first car I rented had such a small engine we had to return it. Then the second SUV was quite dirty and we could not connect the phone to it and while figuring that out the battery died. So, on the spot they had to replace the battery. Grateful they did then but imagine if we had drove off into the 4 hours drive ahead of us without a new battery? Basically, super mediocre if not sub par service.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Oct 2022
Be prepared to be taken advantage of. No matter if you have extremely good insurance through your credit card company these guys will try their absolute hardest to force the company insurance on you for an extra $40 a day. Windshield got cracked by a rock on the road and they took $1100 out of the $3000 deposit, $1100 to replace a windshield?? Get real. To top it all off they charged me $120 American to fill half the tank upon return. It’s standard practice with rental agencies to have an increased gas fee if they have to fill it upon return. But this is on a different level, not to mention I know this guy was just making up numbers in his head as I was able to haggle the price down to $120. He also insisted I pay him in USD with no explanation and eventually took payment in colones. Sketchy business practices at this establishment, beware.
10.0 Wonderful
Matt, Jan 2021
Pros:
Drop off was excellent
Cons:
Would have liked a better explanation of the insurance coverage and not a hard sell.
Prices double on pick up p Because they will charge the insurance on spot! It should be included here upon reservation as it is required!
6.0 Okay
Joshua, Jun 2024
Premium SUV
Pickup and drop off went well. The car itself needed maintenance, the brakes were worn out, wobbled the vehicle when braking hard, which was critical down the many many hills. The car also shivered over 100kmh. Had about 50k miles on it, but given the roads in Costa Rica those were hard miles.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, May 2021
Cons:
Worst value. Clearly has no concept of customer service or friendliness. Exceedingly overpriced.
8.0 Very Good
Cristina, May 2021
Pros:
The staff was friendly and knowledgeable.
Cons:
The price of the insurance is three times the price of the rental. Very different from the US and Canada. I found it quite absurd. I still haven't received the safety deposit!!
2.0 Poor
Samuel, Apr 2021
Pros:
I never picked up the car? I asked for it to be canceled
Cons:
Cancelation of the car rental like the email said would happen
They were not honest and tried to rip me off, I was charged for a rental that I booked online and was told that they didn't charge me and ultimately did not get Rental from them.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, May 2024
Compact
Everything they thought cause I was a female alone they could get over on me.
8.0 Very Good
Anonymous, Feb 2024
Standard SUV
First car had a broken side mirror, so was given another car. Nicer car but rear wiper didn’t work, which was an issue when it was raining.
2.0 Poor
Allison, May 2021
Cons:
It was a total scam, they end up charging you just as much as name brand companies through forcing you to buy unnecessary insurance which is not disclosed when I made my non-refundable reservation.
4.0 Mediocre
Jennifer, Mar 2021
Cons:
Didnt have our reservation. Had to wait for hours.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jan 2021
Pros:
Staff was super friendly!
Cons:
The advertised price is not what you end up paying when the mandatory insurance is added on. BEWARE!
Awesome service at the desk and very quick pick up, they even said yes when I asked to pick up the car 2 hours earlier that scheduled. Drop off was equally fast. Best of all, other rent-a-cars were asking for a 3-day minimum rent, because it was Holy Week. Hertz didn't had any issue in me renting the car for just 1 day.
I paid for insurance but i am not sure the insurance information provided was correct. I am told by my credit card company that the car insurance on rental vehicles is included as a feature on my credit card. Dollar car rental at Costa Rica airport was not accepting the insurance from my credit card.
10.0 Wonderful
Thomas, Jul 2024
Full-size SUV
The best staff. Very helpful and friendly Especially Henry
10.0 Wonderful
Doug, Jan 2021
Cons:
Good service and reasonably priced. There are extras added to what kayak shows, but these are legitimate fees.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
8.4
Very Good
Cleanliness
9.0
Comfort
8.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.4
Value for money
8.1
6 locations in San José
Locations in San José
Avenue 18th, Between 11th
+506 2242 7901
Monday
08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 16:00
Thursday
08:00 - 16:00
Friday
08:00 - 16:00
Saturday
08:00 - 16:00
Sunday
08:00 - 16:00
Boulevard Ernesto Rohrmoser
+506 2242 7800
Monday
00:00 - 00:00
Tuesday
00:00 - 00:00
Wednesday
00:00 - 00:00
Thursday
00:00 - 00:00
Friday
00:00 - 00:00
Saturday
00:00 - 00:00
Sunday
00:00 - 00:00
Hotel Barcelo San Jose Palacio
+506 2220 2034
Monday
08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 16:00
Thursday
08:00 - 16:00
Friday
08:00 - 16:00
Saturday
08:00 - 16:00
Sunday
08:00 - 16:00
La Asuncion De Belen
+506 2242 7800
Monday
00:00 - 00:00
Tuesday
00:00 - 00:00
Wednesday
00:00 - 00:00
Thursday
00:00 - 00:00
Friday
00:00 - 00:00
Saturday
00:00 - 00:00
Sunday
00:00 - 00:00
Paseo Colon
+506 2242 7800
Monday
08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 16:00
Thursday
08:00 - 16:00
Friday
08:00 - 16:00
Saturday
08:00 - 16:00
Sunday
08:00 - 16:00
Plaza Irazu, Robledal
+506 2242 7800
Monday
08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 16:00
Thursday
08:00 - 16:00
Friday
08:00 - 16:00
Saturday
08:00 - 16:00
Sunday
08:00 - 16:00
Filters
No reviews available
Thrifty
7.4
Good
Cleanliness
8.3
Comfort
8.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.6
Value for money
6.6
3 locations in San José
Locations in San José
Centro Comercial Guachipelin
+506 4052 5210
Monday
07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday
07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday
07:30 - 17:30
Thursday
07:30 - 17:30
Friday
07:30 - 17:30
Saturday
07:30 - 17:30
Paseo Colon 30-32
+506 4052 2000
Monday
07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday
07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday
07:30 - 17:30
Thursday
07:30 - 17:30
Friday
07:30 - 17:30
Saturday
07:30 - 17:30
Paseo Colon, Calle 36-38
+506 4052 5210
Monday
06:00 - 23:00
Tuesday
06:00 - 23:00
Wednesday
06:00 - 23:00
Thursday
06:00 - 23:00
Friday
06:00 - 23:00
Saturday
06:00 - 23:00
Sunday
06:00 - 23:00
Filters
No reviews available
Alamo
7.2
Good
Cleanliness
7.8
Comfort
7.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.1
Value for money
7.0
6 locations in San José
Locations in San José
Avenue 18
+506 2242 7733
Monday
08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 16:00
Thursday
08:00 - 16:00
Friday
08:00 - 16:00
Saturday
08:00 - 16:00
Sunday
08:00 - 16:00
Boulevard Ernesto Rohrmoser
+506 2242 7800
Monday
00:00 - 00:00
Tuesday
00:00 - 00:00
Wednesday
00:00 - 00:00
Thursday
00:00 - 00:00
Friday
00:00 - 00:00
Saturday
00:00 - 00:00
Sunday
00:00 - 00:00
Hotel Barcelo San Jose Palacio
+506 2220 2034
Monday
08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 16:00
Thursday
08:00 - 16:00
Friday
08:00 - 16:00
Saturday
08:00 - 16:00
Sunday
08:00 - 16:00
Paseo Colon
+506 2221 4700
Monday
08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 16:00
Thursday
08:00 - 16:00
Friday
08:00 - 16:00
Saturday
08:00 - 16:00
Sunday
08:00 - 16:00
Plaza Irazu Robledal
+506 2242 7733
Monday
08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 16:00
Thursday
08:00 - 16:00
Friday
08:00 - 16:00
Saturday
08:00 - 16:00
Sunday
08:00 - 16:00
San José Province, San José, Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
34th St., 16th Ave., Barrio Corazón de Jesús
, Hospital, San José, San José - , Costa Rica
+506 2542 4848
Opening times not available
34th St., 16th Ave.
Opening times not available
San Jose Intl Airport
+506 2442 2422
Monday
05:00 - 23:00
Tuesday
05:00 - 23:00
Wednesday
05:00 - 23:00
Thursday
05:00 - 23:00
Friday
05:00 - 23:00
Saturday
05:00 - 23:00
Sunday
05:00 - 23:00
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Nov 2022
The car Rental experience was mediocre however it took an hour to do paper work. The site is not straight forward with fees. I asked for a different location drop off quote, and once I was at the rental place they charge $50.00 extra. Furthermore they won’t take the insurance protection provided by the credit card unless you bring a letter from the credit card stating that. So beware, a $40.00 dollars par day rent turns out to be over a $100.00 per day. What can you do better, so you ask? LET CUSTOMERS KNOW UPFRONT OF HIDDEN FEES, SO THYE CAN MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION. (I am not intending to yell by using capital letters, I am just trying to help you do better)
Horrible experience. The lady that sits at the front desk with Usave is unbelievably rude, not only to me but to all of the customers she deals with. When we had trouble with the rental (they lied saying it was 4WD or AWD) she was nasty in WhatsApp messages (I still have them). Overall horrible experience, too many rental car places to fall victim to Usave’s handling of their customers. Never again. And stop recommending this place to travelers.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jun 2024
Passenger van
Old cars. Poorly maintained cars with many basic features like usb chargers not working.
Some San José car providers already include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection Waiver into the hire price but not all of them. We recommend being aware of your coverage when hiring a car in San José.
Keep in mind that car hire insurances often have a deductible clause, which is the amount you’ll have to pay if something happens during the time of your hire. If you want to avoid unwanted surprises, you should consider adding a non-deductible option to your San José car hire.
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