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Costa Rica has around 30 car-rental firms. Most local firms are affiliated with international car-rental chains and offer the same guarantees and services as their branches abroad. At least a dozen rental offices line San José's Paseo Colón; most large hotels and Juan Santamaría Airport have representatives. Renting in or near San José is by far the easiest way to go. It's feasible to rent in Liberia, Manuel Antonio, and Tamarindo. In most other places across the country it's either impossible or very difficult and expensive to rent a car.
If you have a major credit card or auto insurance at home, you may not have to pay the mandatory collision insurance ($10-25 per day, depending on the agency or the kind of car). Before you rent, see what coverage you already have. Deductables are usually $1,000 - $2,000. Third-party injury insurance is generally not covered by credit cards; it costs about $10 per day in addition to the collision insurance, with a 20% deductable; some agencies provide additional insurance to eliminate the deductible. International driving permits (IDPs) are not necessary in Costa Rica. Your own driver's license is good for the length of your initial tourist visa. You must carry your passport, showing that you entered the country less than 90 days ago.
High-season rates in San José begin at $45 a day and $300 a week for an economy car with air-conditioning, manual transmission, unlimited mileage, and obligatory insurance; but rates fluctuate considerably according to demand, season, and company. Rates for a 4WD vehicle during high season are $70-$90 a day and $450-$550 per week. Often companies will also require a $1,000 deposit, payable by credit card. A vehicle with automatic transmission costs about $5 more per day; reserve well in advance and know that options are more limited.
  
 
 
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