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Explore Costa Rica: Puerto Viejo to San Jose

Enjoy a seamless one-way car rental experience

Can I rent a car from Puerto Viejo to San Jose?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Puerto Viejo to San Jose. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for CR residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Costa Rica national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 years.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur a fee of US$ 11.30 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur a fee of US$ 11.30 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Puerto Viejo to San Jose cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 62/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 61/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 105-US$ 137US$ 0-US$ 95US$ 186-US$ 222Solo travelers, couples
SUVUS$ 108-US$ 145US$ 0-US$ 95US$ 181-US$ 326Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 252-US$ 263US$ 50-US$ 57US$ 648-US$ 671Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 148-US$ 205US$ 0-US$ 95US$ 329-US$ 441Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • Be Aware of One-Way Rental Fees: Some rental companies may charge a fee for one-way rentals. Check the cost in advance to ensure it fits your budget.
  • Understand Geographic Restrictions: Verify if there are restrictions for driving across specific areas or regions depending on the rental agreement.
  • Check Cancellation and Change Policies: Flexibility is crucial — ensure you are aware of the policies in case your plans change.
  • Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly: Before accepting the car, perform a full check to identify and report any damages to avoid charges later.
  • Return Fuel Policy: Familiarize yourself with the company's fuel policy to avoid extra charges. Bring the vehicle back with the specified fuel level.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early for Better Rates: Plan and book your rental early to take advantage of discounts and availability.
  • Plan Your Stops Along the Route: Research your route to know where to fuel up and explore key attractions.
  • Familiarize Yourself with Local Driving Laws: Each area may have unique road regulations. Get acquainted with Costa Rica's driving laws for a smoother trip.
  • Coordinate With Your Accommodation: Ensure there are secure places for parking at your destination to avoid inconvenience.
  • Consider Road Conditions in Costa Rica: Some roads may be unpaved or challenging. Choose a vehicle suitable for the terrain and weather conditions.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the vehicle before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Check the fuel policy of your rental agreement before starting the trip.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost along the route is approximately $4.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are properly inflated before embarking on the journey.

Limit use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Puerto Viejo Parking

Parking is generally free in most areas of Puerto Viejo.

Look for designated parking spots near popular tourist areas.

Avoid parking in restricted zones to prevent fines.

San Jose Parking

San Jose offers a mix of paid and free parking options.

Parking garages are available near the city center.

Consider using public transportation for easier access to downtown areas.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMobile

SpotHero

BestParking

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Best Scenic Routes from Puerto Viejo to San José:
Coastal Vista Route
Scenic Route 4 hours 30 minutes

A breathtaking path starting from Puerto Viejo along the coastline, offering seascapes and lush rainforests.

Puerto Viejo , Limón , Turrialba , San José
Mountain Pathway
Adventure Track 5 hours

A thrilling drive through the heart of Costa Rica's mountainous landscapes.

Puerto Viejo , Pococí , Braulio Carrillo National Park , San José
Express Highway
Direct Highway 4 hours

A simple and direct route for travelers looking to reach San José quickly.

Puerto Viejo , Guácimo , Heredia , San José
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Car Selection: Select a compact SUV or crossover for better handling through diverse terrains.

Route Planning: Plan and map out your journey to include key stops like national parks and landmarks.

Refueling Stations: Note refueling opportunities along the route in Limón and Turrialba.

Driving Conditions: Be mindful of tropical weather that can affect road conditions, especially during rainy seasons.

Time Management: Start early to leverage daylight and explore scenic spots during the drive.

Safety Tips: Check the car's condition and keep emergency contacts handy. Avoid driving after dark in remote locations.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Ensure the selected company offers one-way rental services between Puerto Viejo and San Jose with transparent pricing and diverse fleet options.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Alamo Rent A Car$$HighNationwide Wide range of rental options , Reliable customer service
Hertz$$$HighExtensive Premium vehicle options , Frequent promotions
Budget$ModerateGood Affordable rates , Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
Sixt$$ExtensiveComprehensive Luxury vehicles available , Streamlined rental process
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

San Jose Car Rental Center Information

Operating Hours:

The car rental center is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Location:

Located at Juan Santamaria International Airport, next to the arrivals terminal.

Shuttle Frequency:

Complimentary shuttles run every 15 minutes from the terminals.

Pick-Up/Drop-Off Points:

Dedicated areas are marked for quick and easy car collection and return.

Pro Tips for Caribe Town Car Rentals

Ensure to check for any hidden fees and inspect the vehicle during pick-up for damages to avoid charges later.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a car in one location and drop it off at another. It's a highly convenient option for traveling between destinations like Puerto Viejo and San Jose without having to return to the starting point.

Are there additional fees for a one-way rental?

Yes, most rental companies charge a one-way fee to cover the cost of returning the car to its original location. The fee will vary depending on the company and the distance between drop-off and pick-up points.

Is there a specific car rental provider for this route?

Numerous car rental providers operate in Costa Rica, and many of them offer one-way rental services for this route. It's advisable to compare providers based on price, car availability, and terms of service.

How should I handle tolls on the way?

Costa Rica uses several toll roads, commonly around the San Jose area. Most rental cars include instructions on toll payment, and some come equipped with toll collection devices. Ensure you understand the procedures to avoid penalties.

What documents are required to rent a car in Costa Rica?

You will need a valid driver's license from your home country, your passport, and a credit card for the deposit. Some companies also require an international driving permit (IDP), so check the rental company's requirements ahead of time.

Ready to Book Your Puerto Viejo to San Jose Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ