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Explore Costa Rica with Ease

Easy and convenient one-way car rentals from Quepos to San Jose.

Can I rent a car from Quepos to San Jose?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Quepos 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 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, Diners Club, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 21-24 are subject to 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. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 year(s). 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 are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, Diners Club, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 21-24 are subject to a fee of US$ 11.30 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Quepos 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$ 43/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 43/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 76-US$ 111US$ 0-US$ 50US$ 128-US$ 364Solo travelers, couples
SUVUS$ 77-US$ 141US$ 0-US$ 50US$ 129-US$ 302Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 242US$ 50US$ 612Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 142US$ 0-US$ 50US$ 307Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-way fees: Some rental companies may apply an additional charge for one-way trips. Verify this fee before booking.
  • Vehicle selection: Select a vehicle that matches your route and needs, considering the terrain and luggage space.
  • Drop-off policies: Ensure the drop-off point in San Jose fits your itinerary and operating hours are suitable.
  • Insurance coverage: Check if your rental package includes coverage for one-way trips or if additional insurance is needed.
  • Cross-border restrictions: If planning to continue driving across country borders, confirm this is allowed by the rental company.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book in advance: Ensure better vehicle availability and pricing by reserving your rental as early as possible.
  • Map fuel stops: Plan your route and identify refueling stations along the way for convenience and efficiency.
  • Know route specifics: Research driving conditions on the road from Quepos to San Jose for safety and preparation.
  • Understand time flexibility: Confirm if the rental agreement allows adjustments to your schedule without penalties.
  • Secure personal items: Use the vehicle’s secured spaces to protect your belongings during stops or overnight stays.
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 car before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Use gas stations near the drop-off location for convenience.

Fuel Cost

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

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are properly inflated before starting the journey.

Avoid using air conditioning excessively during the drive.

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Quepos Parking

Public parking is available near the town center.

Some hotels in Quepos offer free parking for guests.

Consider using secure parking lots for extended stays.

San Jose Parking

Parking garages are available near downtown San Jose.

Hourly rates for parking range from $1 to $3.

Street parking is limited and often metered.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero

ParkWhiz

ParkMobile

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Recommended Scenic Routes Between Quepos and San Jose:
Coastal Highway Route
Scenic Drive 3 hours and 30 minutes

This route follows the Pacific coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and passing through charming beach towns.

Manuel Antonio National Park , Jacó , Tarcoles River Bridge
Mountain Valley Route
Nature Escape 4 hours

This route takes you through lush mountain valleys and vibrant tropical flora while avoiding heavy traffic.

Parque Nacional Carara , Turrúcares , City of Escazú
Direct Highway Drive
Quick Trip 2 hours and 45 minutes

The quickest route to San Jose using the efficient national highways, ideal for reaching your destination swiftly.

Orotina , Highway Marketplace , Santa Ana
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Choose the Right Vehicle: Select a vehicle appropriate for road conditions and group size for comfort and safety.

Know Your Route: Familiarize yourself with the chosen route and possible alternatives before initiating your trip.

Refueling Stops: Take note of gas stations along the way to ensure you can refuel whenever necessary.

Safety Precautions: Carry emergency supplies like a first aid kit, water, and snacks, and ensure your cell phone is fully charged.

Budget Wisely: Factor in costs for fuel, potential tolls, and snacks. Don't forget to verify rental agreements for hidden charges.

Explore Key Attractions: Allocate time at major stops to enjoy the attractions, adding breaks for relaxation.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting the right car rental company for a one-way trip from Quepos to San Jose can enhance your journey significantly. Consider fees, vehicle options, coverage, and other benefits.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Economy Rent a Car$$HighExtensive in Costa Rica Affordable rates , Diverse vehicle options , 24/7 customer service
National Car Rental$$$PremiumWide coverage including major Costa Rican cities Excellent customer reviews , Wide selection of luxury vehicles , Hassle-free returns
Alamo Rent a Car$$ModerateComprehensive throughout tourist hubs Affordable deals , Additional services packages , Convenient locations
Budget Rent a Car$ModerateFocused on city and airport locations Budget-friendly , Regular discounts , Reliable vehicle fleet
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

Essential Information on Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers in San Jose operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Quepos rental points might vary, with similar hours.

Location of Rental Offices:

In Quepos, rental offices are often close to the downtown area. In San Jose, multiple options exist, including near the airport.

Shuttle Services:

San Jose Juan Santamaría Airport provides regular shuttle services between terminals and nearby rental locations.

Vehicle Collection/Drop-off:

Provide your rental confirmation details at the rental office for the collection process. Drop-off at alternative locations as agreed.

Pro Tips for Canopy Car Rentals

Ensure to confirm the exact return location to avoid additional fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drop off the rental car in San Jose instead of Quepos?

Yes, many car rental companies offer one-way rental services, allowing you to pick up the car in Quepos and drop it off in San Jose. It's always recommended to confirm with the car rental company beforehand and inquire about any potential one-way fees.

Are there additional fees for a one-way rental?

While one-way rentals are convenient, they often come with a surcharge. This one-way rental fee varies by company and route, so checking specific policies with your chosen rental company is advised.

What is the estimated travel time from Quepos to San Jose by car?

Driving from Quepos to San Jose typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way. The route offers scenic views, making for a pleasant journey.

Is it necessary to refuel the car before dropping it off in San Jose?

Most car rental companies require that you return the car with the same fuel level as when you picked it up. If you're unable to refuel the car beforehand, you may be charged an additional refueling fee.

Do I need insurance for my rental car?

While insurance isn't always mandatory, it's strongly recommended. Many rental companies in Costa Rica require at least a basic insurance coverage, and additional options for extra protection are usually available.

Ready to Book Your Quepos to San Jose Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ