Car rental at San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport

Car rental at San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport

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San José, Costa Rica - Juan Santamaria Intl
26 May — 2 Jun
Same drop-off
San José, Costa Rica - Juan Santamaria Intl
Thu 26/5
Noon
Thu 2/6
Noon
Driver's age:

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for car hire deals at San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport (SJO)

San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport car hire reviews and directory

Rated no. 1
Alamo
Best rated
6.7 Good (103 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Alamo
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
La Asuncion De Belen+506 2242 7733
Monday00:00 - 23:59
Tuesday00:00 - 23:59
Wednesday00:00 - 23:59
Thursday00:00 - 23:59
Friday00:00 - 23:59
Saturday00:00 - 23:59
Sunday00:00 - 23:59
  • 7.4
  • 6.8
  • 6.5
  • 6.5
  • 6.2
Recent reviews
9.6 Excellent7 Mar 2020
The staff was friendly and helpful. The car had an unbalanced wheel, causing shudder, but at an Alamo office the car was replaced in less than 30 minutes and the journey continued without technical problems.The light of the back compartment was constantly on due to the faulty door switch, resulting to a dead battery during a one week long parking.
10.0 Excellent12 Feb 2020
10/10 would reccomend the Alamo in Belen near the San Jose Airport. Customer service was amazing, staff was super friendly and helpful, and facilities and cars are clean and well-maintained. We upgraded for a small extra amount per day and were so thrilled with our vehicle (Toyota Fortuner). Upon returning our car to Alamo at the end of our trip, we had no wait at all before our car was checked out, receipt confirmed, and our friendly driver dropped us off at the airport. Will absolutely be return customers for our next trip.Everything was super!
8.4 Excellent24 Jan 2020
Nice suvOvercharged me!!!! Over billing!!!
3.2 Mediocre7 Jan 2020
If you think your reservation is for 7 people and 3 luggage’s! Make sure it is only purses! We rented a car and the trunk space wouldn’t hold a backpack. Such a scam to upgrade to a bigger car and they tried to charge nearly triple the reservation price.
3.6 Mediocre6 Jan 2020
The staff in Manuel Antonio did their best to address the issue with the trunk not latching.Reserved an intermediate car but was given a compact at the same rate! I had to argue to get the rate changed. Furthermore, the compact was in bad shape, dings and scratches, no hub caps, and the trunk wouldn't latch. And, they didn't fill it up with gas but gave me paperwork to the contrary. I had to return shortly after leaving the lot to point out the gas gauge.
9.6 Excellent2 Jan 2020
Staff super friendly. HELD the reservation for almost 24 hours once our original flight was cancelled. Can't state enough what a LIFE SAVER this was for our trip. We had 6 passengers and needed a large SUV and I don't think there were any others available during the busy Xmas season. They literally SAVED OUR TRIP by holding that reservation for us...THANK YOU ALAMO!Could have had a bit more room for luggage. It "seats 6" but honestly then there is zero room for luggage. We had to sit 2 in front, 3 in the middle any only 1 in back so that we could put down the seat for luggage in the back.
9.6 Excellent2 Jan 2020
Staff were hospitable and very helpful, especially Ronny. Offered options but did not push anything. Really went right with the full insurance. Roads around Arenal were challenging and felt relieved to be fully insured.
7.6 Good15 Dec 2019
Insurance costs are high and unexpected
8.0 Excellent5 Dec 2019
Staff was superbWe wanted a jeep and got a Nissan we didn't like that much although it was oaky
2.0 Mediocre25 Aug 2019
Never got to pick up my car. My flight was delayed, they said they couldn't hold my car till the next day, even if i paid for it. And they had no cars available the following day. Sorry, SOL! What kind of rental company "has no cars available"!? Last time i rent from those clowns.
Rated no. 2
Thrifty
6.5 Good (40 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Thrifty
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Juan Santamaria Intl Apo+506 4052 5210
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
  • 7.5
  • 7.1
  • 5.8
  • 6.6
  • 5.2
Recent reviews
6.0 Good2 Apr 2022
Sales man soy the goverment is thebonly oye to oferta ensurance to cars, carryput to buy with they the opción to cover the renta, BAD operación, because in Costa Rica exists more ensurance companies
8.0 Excellent23 Mar 2022
Picking up was very easy! They had my reservation and drove me to their offsite location. The car was waiting for me, I signed some papers and was off! Flopping off was a nightmare, but it want their fault. The road was blocked in both directions, so there was literally no way of getting the car rental back to the rental place. We attempted from one direction and that was 100% impassible. To come at it from the other direction, we needed to go on a toll road and then make a U-turn. When we approached where the rental place should be, that section of the road was closed, too!! I had to park by the barricades (impeding traffic) and walk down the street to ask them what I should do. They told me I needed to move the construction barricades and drive the vehicle down the closed road. There was literally no way of getting to the drop off point without moving barricades. Luckily, we were very early for our flight, so we had time, but I was a little worried for a while, because I had no idea where to take the car.
10.0 Excellent25 Feb 2022
Great customer service and no issues with the reservation. The front desk gave us an overview of Costa Rican traffic laws and helped us select the best insurance. They even gave us some other travel tips we used throughout our vacation! Will definitely use them again!
2.0 Mediocre1 Jan 2022
They added an obligatory insurance that doubled the price!
3.9 Mediocre7 Sep 2021
I purchased car insurance when I booked the rental and upon arrival I was notified that the Allianz insurance I purchased is not valid in Costa Rica and I had to purchase insurance directly there which added an additional $225 to our rental. Kayak shouldn’t offer car insurance if it’s not accepted in that country.
5.6 Okay12 Mar 2020
When I arrived at the counter to pick up the car I was told purchasing the rental car's insurance was NOT optional, I had to purchase one of two plans, otherwise they would not rent the car to me. If the insurance was not optional, then it should have been shown in the original price of renting the car. A definite bait & switch which I didn't appreciate. $300 for the car, $250 for the insurance, kind of changes the value of the rental.
6.8 Good10 May 2018
You should give customers a head's up about Costa Rica's insurance polCar was nice, good on gas.If someone is renting from Costa Rica, you should tell them about the mandatory insurance purchase. My rental went from $63 to ~$400, by far my biggest expense this trip.
5.6 Okay15 Feb 2018
The final cost was 3 times the price I bookedNew car and easy drop offWhen I booked the car and chose Thrifty the price was 175. At the end it cost me 540 with all taxes fees etc. There was no way to get it for 175. I feel I was misled and will not recommend
10.0 Excellent18 Jan 2018
Thrifty Car RentalVery friendly service. Threw in a GPS for $5
3.2 Mediocre3 Jan 2018
MisleadingI had already bought insurance but was told it didn't work in Costa Rica and that I had to buy the insurance they provided. Nothing I said could change this. The insurance ended up doubling the price of the rental. I had also asked about the size of the SUV we were renting prior to arriving and was told it would hold 5 adults comfortably. Not hardly! Ended up having to pay an additional amount to have a somewhat larger SUV. Then on top of all that, they put a $950 deposit amount on my credit card making it unusable to me the rest of my trip. I have NEVER had a car rental company put that large of a deposit on my credit card. NEVER!! That pretty much wiped out my spending money as I only brought two credit cards with me for this trip. It really would have been nice to know all this additional expense before I arrived so I could have adequately planned.
Rated no. 3
Budget
6.1 Good (53 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Budget
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Juan Santa Maria Intl Apo+506 2436 2010
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
  • 6.9
  • 6.4
  • 6
  • 5.9
  • 5.4
Recent reviews
8.0 Excellent19 Dec 2021
Had problems with car. Kept jumping out of 4th and 5th gears. Caused delay, missed ferry. Causing further delays. Reported it.
10.0 Excellent30 Nov 2021
Fantastic and speedy service !
8.0 Excellent10 Nov 2021
Price was double of what I paid in the past
1.9 Horrible10 Aug 2021
Horrible! Do not rent from here. I rented a large suv for my family and my elderly parents to ride comfortable 2 months in advance. I checked in on the car and reservation 2 days before travel. The day of immigration was long and flight delay occurred. I called the rental place and told them i would be coming in at 2pm. They said ok. I showed up and no car. They gave it away. Than 4 other families come to get their car and no cars either. You can't be more than 5 minutes late for your reservation or they give it away. I called ahead and made sure it was ok and my reservation was still given away. No cars were available in the airport. Worst experience being stuck in a country with 2 kids and 2 elderly parents and no car and all car rentals didn't have any either. I had to wait 3 hrs after many phone calls and help from my wheel chair person to get a car. Save yourself a headache and rent from another company.
1.9 Horrible9 Aug 2021
They closed their office early and I was left without a car for my arrival. The car engine was not properly tuned with very little power.
10.0 Excellent3 Jan 2021
Drop off was excellentWould have liked a better explanation of the insurance coverage and not a hard sell.
2.0 Mediocre26 Apr 2020
NothingThey refused to give back my deposit despite the trip. Ring cancelled due to Covid-19 A disgrace
4.8 Okay23 Mar 2020
Don’t use this car rental. A lot of hidden fees. They are crooks.
2.0 Mediocre26 Jan 2020
Nothing, did not like anything about this experienceStaff was extremely unhelpful. Was the worst experience in Costa Rica. Outrageous price for a beat up old car with 150,000 miles on it, manual transmission, radio had been taken out, fog lights missing, horrible car, took us 3 hours to check in and get car, staff is inept and we stood in line for hours while no one could give us a clear answer on when we would get a car even though we had a reservation.
8.4 Excellent24 Jan 2020
The staff and car were great.The "insurance" needs to be more clear and affordable. It is not the staff's fault, this is a corporate problem. The cost of insurance is double the cost of the car. It is a scam.
Rated no. 4
Ace
4.2 Okay (63 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Ace
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Across from Hampton Inn Hotel+506 4036 7431
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
  • 5.2
  • 4.9
  • 3.8
  • 3.8
  • 3.3
Recent reviews
6.0 Good26 Dec 2021
Although it was relatively inexpensive they did not disclose the mandatory 3rd party insurance requirement you had to pay - I even had the letter from my credit card company saying they covered the collision insurance ( I had that after reading the fine print that letter was needed- full price of the rental should be disclosed at the time of reservation
2.0 Mediocre30 Nov 2021
Have travelled often but never experienced such a scam. We were told they had no cars when we arrived and there were none available anywhere. After an hour of pleading they somehow got us a car as it was a huge favor and it ended up being the same Toyota Landcruiser Prado which I had reserved 2 months earlier but at twice the cost. Have never been taken advantage of like this.
3.9 Mediocre12 Aug 2021
We had requested a 4x4 because we were going to drive through the mountains and in dirt roads in Costa Rica. They gave us a car that needed the wheels to be balanced, and when it rained the car would slide through the mud. It was unsafe, and we couldn’t return the car sooner because we were far away. When we went to return the car the staff explained to us that because it was high season that was the only car they had left. Instead of renting us the car, they should’ve been honest so we could find a car to rent elsewhere.
2.0 Mediocre2 Jan 2020
Nothing to like. I booked a Jeep for 5 people and they told me that they could only offer me a 4 seater with no trunk.Have the car that you booked available.
3.2 Mediocre30 Dec 2019
Staff was available and responsiveI was told online my price would be $277. I get there and they charge me $530. They initially give me a car that brakes don’t work and my husband wrecks into a car in front of us. They show no remorse although the situation could have ended much worse (I.e wreck on the highway going 70mph). They bring us another car but it’s the exact same brand- we still feel very uncomfortable about the brake situation so we ask for a different type of car and they just give a hard no. Zero remorse. Deceiving prices and little remorse or attempt to make the situation right make this a poor experience.
4.4 Okay30 Nov 2019
They did finally change the car for us after telling us previously there weren’t any other cars.When we were quoted for the price it was $34 total for 6 days. However, when we arrived we were told there was an obligatory insurance we needed to get (in-spite of my credit card having an international plan). The price quickly changes from the quoted $34 dollars (which supposedly included taxes and fees) to $300. We ended up paying an extra $50 more for the full insurance (since we were worried what they would try to charge us for if anything at all happened) so it came to $350. When we asked why it changed so drastically they said that it was because of the extra fees and taxes (which the website had said were included.) I had originally picked a Jeep but the confirmation email was for an SUV instead (So that was strange). When we got the Jeep it had no gps or even a usb charging port . When we asked about this the man told us he should go by Walmart in order to get one for the car. When we complained he said that they didn’t have any other cars and then finally offered us a carport charger that he had that we could borrow. When we left the seatbelt light turned on and wouldn’t stop beeping (even though we had our seatbelts on.) finally we had to turn around and return the car. We also realized there wasn’t even a middle seatbelt in the back of the car. They miraculously had a different car for us then. Overall- not a good experience. Would NOT recommend. We do speak Spanish as well fluently so it wasn’t like anything but was “lost in translation.”
2.0 Mediocre5 Nov 2019
NothingI have a printed confirmation from you for $110.00. In fairness it does read estimated taxes and fees $57.12. Confirmation # CRF8702737. After paying for a shuttle to the isolated offsite I was told the rental was $450.00 no negotiation and he kept pointing to the estimated taxes and fees. Extremely deceptive business practice. While Adolfo in customer service was very good and resolved my issue I would highly reccomend these deceptive business practices and disclose to your customers what the actual fees will really be.
4.8 Okay18 Jul 2019
Charged us an extra $420 'compulsory' insurance on our $115 rental. We were not allowed to opt out of it even though we already have rental car insurance. This was a scam and made our rental 4 times more expensive than originally booked!!
2.0 Mediocre3 Jun 2019
Had to pay a ton of money once I showed up to the counter, as the Allianz insurance recommended on the Kayak website and that I had paid for was deemed invalid by the Ace staff at the pick-up point. I had to pay from $50 I had paid online to $300 at the point of pick-up.Misinformation should be cleaned up from the Kayak website regarding the Ace rental details and charges.
8.8 Excellent23 May 2019
Great car! We took it on some pretty rough roads and it handled them no problem.This rental was not handled directly by Ace, but locally by "Toyota rentals" or something like that. They did not accept my Allianz travel car insurance, purchased in advance, and instead required that I purchase (more expensive) insurance directly through them.
Rated no. 5
National
7.5 Good (9 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
National
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
La Asuncion De Belen+506 2242 7878
Monday00:00 - 23:59
Tuesday00:00 - 23:59
Wednesday00:00 - 23:59
Thursday00:00 - 23:59
Friday00:00 - 23:59
Saturday00:00 - 23:59
Sunday00:00 - 23:59
  • 8.6
  • 7.5
  • 6.8
  • 8.2
  • 6.2
Recent reviews
8.0 Excellent9 Aug 2019
Staff was friendly and helpful.The insurance prices are lower than most otehr companies, but still a rip off.
4.4 Okay16 Mar 2019
The staff was friendly and the shuttle was efficient.The suv I received was an old model with over 75k. The car I reserved was a “Jeep Wrangler or similar”. Certainly, I understand that the actual SUV will vary but I received was nothing even remotely comparable. A tiny, old Dahaitsu is just plain false advertising. They don’t even have any Jeeps!
7.6 Good15 Feb 2017
Beware of the InsuranceThe service was great, staff was helpful and prompt.It would have been nice to know the full price I'd be paying for a rental car before landing in this foreign country fully dependent on getting it. I felt very mislead by the pricing I was given in the reservation. In Costa Rica, insurance is required and this was never mentioned in the booking process. Therefore I ended up having to pay over $400 (with an extra $800 held) for the car I expected to rent for $83. I just thought that was very dishonest by the rental car company and the booking company.
Rated no. 6
Enterprise
7.4 Good (13 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Enterprise
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
La Asuncion De Belen+506 2242 7800
Monday00:00 - 23:59
Tuesday00:00 - 23:59
Wednesday00:00 - 23:59
Thursday00:00 - 23:59
Friday00:00 - 23:59
Saturday00:00 - 23:59
Sunday00:00 - 23:59
  • 8.1
  • 7.5
  • 7.2
  • 7.6
  • 6.6
Recent reviews
9.6 Excellent24 Dec 2019
Staff was very friendly and provided good travel information
10.0 Excellent15 Nov 2019
The entire process was excellent. I've forgotten his name, but the Enterprise Manager at the San Jose Airport had me on the road in short order. Gabriel Vasquez, the Enterprise Manager in Belen, CR was instrumental in writing an extended contract for for our car and getting us back on the road in very short order. I'M A VERY HAPPY CUSTOMER TO DATE!Nothing.
7.2 Good10 Nov 2019
The SUV we rented was great.The price we were quoted online was very deceiving. We were quoted a little over $100 online. However when we got to pick our vehicle up, even with the cheapest insurance, we paid well over $1000. The price needs to be more transparent when you book online. Once you arrive in a foreign country and need a car to get around, you really have no choice but to pay. Very disappointed that the amount quoted was so inaccurate.
5.2 Okay16 Mar 2019
Staff was greatOur car was a total piece of junk. The rental was inexpensive but I had no idea we were signing of for what seemed like a 10 yr old beat up car.
10.0 Excellent12 Mar 2019
The staff is very kind and the vehicle is in good conditions.
2.4 Mediocre26 Feb 2019
Nothing, the service was awful.I originally booked a rental 4x4 in late November to pick up in San Jose, Costa Rica. When we arrived we were told that no other 4x4 rentals were available even though another family showed up after us, was helped after us and received a 4x4. Enterprise originally offered nothing except to refund
6.0 Good29 Nov 2018
Invalid InsuranceWe arrived at the airport only to find that the 3rd party insurance offered through Kayak was not accepted and was not usable. We purchased insurance through Enterprise and will be canceling the charges for the 3rd party insurance. Dont offer it to consumers if it is not valid in that country. It effected trip budgeting as the 3rd party was about $65 and at the desk through the company it was about $180
5.2 Okay17 Dec 2017
So soThe car reservation was for $31 but I needed up paying $40 a day for insurance. It was ridiculous. Not to mention I ended up stopping at a service station and they checked all my fluids just for me to find out that the brake fluid was extremely low (dangerously low). This was concerning considering I was driving through mountains and steep cliffs.
8.0 Excellent30 Jan 2017
Sticker shockHad the reservation price tripled once the mandatory insurance was added on. It would be nice to see insurance prices listed on your website rather than being surprised first thing on arrival.
Rated no. 7
Avis
6.1 Good (29 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Avis
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Juan Santamaria Intl Apo+506 2293 2222
Monday05:00 - 22:30
Tuesday05:00 - 22:30
Wednesday05:00 - 22:30
Thursday05:00 - 22:30
Friday05:00 - 22:30
Saturday05:00 - 22:30
Sunday05:00 - 22:30
  • 7.3
  • 6.6
  • 6
  • 5.9
  • 4.9
Recent reviews
2.0 Mediocre11 May 2022
Do not rent from Avis in Costa Rica. They were not responsible or reliable when my rental car broke down. My family was stranded for 5 hours on the side of the road, and even after getting towed Avis continued to be negligent. Worst rental car experience of my life.
2.0 Mediocre10 May 2022
Upon arrival with a prepaid rental agreement through a third part I was told a car was not available for me. After being made to wait for an hour, a car was found. However, in the stress and confusion of the situation, I did not realize that Avis had charged me $3000 on top of the already prepared full amount of $1000. The matter is still not resolved three weeks later. Contacting Avis has been impossible. Avoid at all costs. This company ruined my trip.
10.0 Excellent26 Apr 2022
Excellent service in every respect. The price seemed high, but that was the best I could get at the time. My suggestion to anyone traveling extensively off the main highways is to get an SUV or other vehicle made for off-road driving.
6.0 Good10 Apr 2022
Renter beware: count on your final price being about double what you are quoted. Costa Rica manages to slap on a number of mandatory fees and unavoidable insurance policies that shoot the price up exponentially.
8.0 Excellent4 Apr 2022
The price could have been better and more up front. With the insurance it more than doubled the cost!!
2.0 Mediocre4 Apr 2022
Would never rent from Avis again. Waited 2+ hours for car scheduled pickup in advance. Gave us a car with a flat tire and dirty. Many customers arguing with them over what insurance was covered by credit cards - they upcharge you for insurance on arrival a huge amount, added 50%+ to our total after booking. Terrible experience.
10.0 Excellent22 Mar 2022
me cobraron el doble de la cotización
10.0 Excellent19 Feb 2022
Avis had the most competitive option available to begin with. They're located a few minutes outside the airport, but they offer a free shuttle service that makes the drive every 10-15 minutes. Their staff was very helpful and knowledgeable - shoutout to Katherine who helped us check out.
10.0 Excellent4 Feb 2022
Car was clean and drove well. Cost for third party liability insurance cost pretty much the same as the car rental.
6.0 Good1 Feb 2022
Car itself was fine. My frustration was that they would NOT let me change the primary driver to my husband because I booked the car online. We had to pay $5 USD per day (30 day rental) extra for him to drive. I had called the 1 800 number in advance of our trip and they said it wouldn’t be a problem to switch it at pick up, at no charge….but that is not what happened. Drop off was quick and very good. Staff for pick up were friendly.
Rated no. 8
Dollar
5.9 Okay (8 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Dollar
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Juan Santamaria Intl Ap+506 2431 4865
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
  • 7
  • 6.2
  • 5.7
  • 5.5
  • 5.2
Recent reviews
3.6 Mediocre30 Mar 2018
They will hit you with extra charges any way they can!We got stuck in traffic because of construction in Monteverde. It was beyond our control. They shut down the only street in or out for hours. We called Dollar Rental to let them know and they told us NOT TO WORRY and that we would NOT BE CHARGED EXTRA for running late as long as we got there before they closed at 11:30 PM. We got there at 10:30 PM and the guy that was checking us back in said, "Don't worry, you won't be charged extra for being a few hours late." However, when we went to pay, the guy at the front desk charged my credit card for an additional $60.51 for the few hours we were late. I told him that both the guy on the phone and the guy who checked us back in told us we would not be charged extra. He gave me a funny look and said, "Oops, they didn't tell me that and I already ran your card, so I can't reverse the charge now. You'll have to email corporate when you get back to the US and they will fix it for you." I emailed corporate over a week ago and never heard back from them. I will never be using Dollar Rental again.
4.8 Okay9 Jan 2018
Price gougedNo restrictions on where I could go with the car. Air conditioning worked. Offered WiFi device for $5/day, and that worked great.Reserved an automatic, but their computer didn’t show it, so I was forced to upgrade. Paid for insurance via Kayak, but told that was no good and that we were required to get additional insurance that cost more than $100. The shuttle to/from airport is slow, and we waited almost an hour to get to the airport after drop off. Car’s brakes stuck and needs new shocks.
2.0 Mediocre21 Apr 2017
Dollar is a dishonest company.Dollar lured my family in with a low price listed on the internet. BUT it was only an empty promise as they made us pay nearly twice that amount upon our arrival to pick up our reserved vehicle.My family paid in full online prior to my trip. We received a confirmation of both our payment and reservation. After arriving in our destination (Costa Rica) Dollar made us pay additional insurance and fees to obtain our car. With our young children in tow and after pleading with them for 2 hours we had to pay the additional money to drive away. A formal credit discard dispute has been filed. Stay away from this dishonest company.
7.2 Good29 Oct 2016
Misrepresented on KayakCustomer service at DollarKayak misrepresented the vehicle. I booked a vehicle that could fit 7 with insurance. When I got there I found out the vehicle only seated 5 and the insurance I paid for through Kayak wasn't even basic insurance for this country. Ended up paying 400 more than originally quoted!! Could have saved almost 200 going directly through Dollar.
Rated no. 9
Payless
5.7 Okay (15 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Payless
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Juan Santa Maria Intl Apo+506 2430 4647
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
  • 6.2
  • 6.1
  • 5.2
  • 6.1
  • 4.8
Recent reviews
4.4 Okay3 Mar 2019
Car rate with Insurance is a RIP. Spent more on car rental than hotel for a week.
3.2 Mediocre27 Feb 2019
Knowing that insurance for three weeks would cost $1,500 and that I needed letters from my insurance company and credit card company to verify insurance would have been honest. I was very unhappy to learn this at the counter after a day of traveling. Dishonest practice.
2.0 Mediocre30 Dec 2018
Had a break failureNothingPaid $800+ for 5 days, but when I stated the riding, the ride was really bad. Still choose to use it for 5 days. During 5th day driving down from Irazu Volcano, the break failed suddenly.. Holding the hand break and pressing break pedal didn't stop the car. To avoid life threatening accident, I had to hit a post to stop the car. Still wife is suffering with pain. When I called Payless to report the incident, amazed to know that no question about if the passengers are ok.. After 2:45 hours got a replacement car, with dirty smell from the rear side. After reaching the payless rental place to return the call, when I explained these incidents, their reaction was the worst, it's almost like who cares if the break failed or the replacement call smelled.. Will find out the options to take action. Don't rent from Payless if you are going to Costa Rica.
6.0 Good7 Dec 2017
Good customer service.Windshield wipers were useless. Interior light was broken. Had to lock and unlock car with the key ie the key buttons were broken or battery was dead.
6.0 Good27 Jun 2017
Bait and SwitchAvailability of vehicles on hand and excellent customer service.The cost that was presented during the online booking process did not remotely come close to the actual cost during the car rental pickup. I ended up paying close to $1,000 overall. Also, I paid for full coverage for car insurance online as part of the online booking process so it can be ready upon pickup. But Payless did not honor the online car insurance purchase and therefore in order to finalize the car rental transaction with Payless I had to purchase their car insurance. Although Payless provided great service and had excellent cars for rent I did not appreciate the blatant disparities in cost and having to purchase 2 full coverage car insurances. I don't see myself renting from Payless again.
7.2 Good4 Jun 2017
The Costa Rican mandatory insurance was not included in part of the cost. Also, the brakes were very spongy, forcing me to use the emergency brakes down steep hills.
2.0 Mediocre15 Apr 2017
Didn't rentOffice was closed when we arrived late because of plane delay. No message sent to our email. Luckily, Dollar rental was still open and had a car for us - excellent experience with them.
4.8 Okay9 Jan 2017
Drop off location was fine.Pickup location "insurance" requirement - see my previous post.
3.6 Mediocre8 Sep 2016
A Big ScamThey made me purchase insurance even though I already had pay it ahead of time thru a third party company. They said that the minimum amount I had to pay per day was $40 dollars otherwise I couldn't rent the car.
Rated no. 10
MEXRENTACAR
5 Okay (4 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
MEXRENTACAR
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Route 3 Rio Segundo
  • 5
  • 4.5
  • 5
  • 5
  • 5.5
Recent reviews
2.0 Mediocre22 Apr 2022
Showed up later than planned and they gave my car away and told me they only had one left but told me they were gonna charge me more per day then I was supposed to pay for the whole week
2.0 Mediocre17 Feb 2022
On arrival at San Jose, the representative told me that I was 2 hours late and they had rented my car to someone else. When I asked for my deposit back they refused. They were rude and threatening. I spoke to their manager by phone and he was dismissive. I have not yet received my deposit.
Rated no. 11
Europcar
4.4 Okay (17 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Europcar
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Carretera Aeropuerto Internacional
  • 5.4
  • 4.9
  • 3.9
  • 4.6
  • 3.7
Recent reviews
2.0 Mediocre18 Apr 2022
Not because Europcar people in San Jose, they been good, and the car was O.K., but we had to buy a new coverage Insurance, because the one you offered on the web page at the time of this reservation was not valid in San Jose!!! How you can offer it??? if not a valid coverage?! Please proceed to refund us for the Allianz Insurance purchased, we try contact them with no e-mails going through, please indicate the steps to be taken for recovering our money?! Thank you, Cosmin
4.0 Okay17 Apr 2022
Price was 3 times higher compared to initial booking in kayak. Old vehicle, uncomfortable. Picking up the car took around 2 hours. Won’t be renting with Europcar or using Kayak in the future
2.0 Mediocre16 Apr 2022
This rental agency is a complete fraud! Upon arrival, they wanted to charge twice the amount the booking had stated. We ended up taking the bus instead. Quite frankly, the manager of this establishment should be investigated for fraud and theft. My advice: stay away.
2.0 Mediocre2 Apr 2022
So we did the reservation through kayak to pick up our rental car at europcar. In the reservation mail it says it is about 300$ for 3days and I knew there will obviously charge extra for insurance but I wasn’t prepared for what they told us: we should pay another 300$ (+30 0000$ deposit on my credit card?????) so I definitely declined and we walked out of the office. The other insurance possibilities were also really expensive. We were still sitting outside of europcar office and After calling other rental car companies comparing prices the lady from europcar came again and tried to negotiate (pretended to have called her boss to give us better offer). Still more than 500$ so we really left their ground then. We ended up with a car from avanti rent a car for 300$ (Including full insurance! +only 400$ deposit!) so definitely don’t go to europcar in San José!! I mean eventually every rental car company rips you off but try to compare !
1.9 Horrible1 Aug 2021
I was quoted $150 total at pick up. Ended up paying $350 total because of required fees. Bait and switch. Would not recommend.
1.9 Horrible19 Jul 2021
Bait and switch at the last minute. Made the reservation well in advance and then was told that no cars we available. Almost 4 hours to get the car. Brakes were non-existent.
10.0 Excellent10 Jan 2021
Staff was super friendly!The advertised price is not what you end up paying when the mandatory insurance is added on. BEWARE!
4.0 Okay5 Jan 2021
The car was fine, but I left feeling like I was scammed. I had to pay for Liability insurance, which I was prepared for, but Europcar’s cost for this was twice as much as other rental places for no reason. And they wouldn’t accept my credit card’s CDW coverage (a first) and made me pay for that as well. Overall, it more than doubled the cost of the rental de me. A nasty surprise at the counter, but at that point, they know they’ve got you. Wouldn’t recommend to anyone.
7.6 Good16 Feb 2020
The staff is very nice and helpful. Taking the shuttle to the car rental was pretty easy.The insurance the is quoted by kayak versus what they charge at the car rental is much higher. We rented a car for one week for about 50 USD, which is very cheap, but the medium level for the insurance ran 450 USD.
5.2 Okay6 Jan 2020
The car.Transparency. I did everything possible to waive the insurance and I couldn’t. Even when I had a credit card with my own insurance this was not possible because I did not had the 30,000 usd limit in my credit card (it was not possible to understand this limitation through the webpage terms). Additionally the people form europcar put all the possible obstacles so that I could not waive the insurance. Finally I had to pay it. I felt scammed. It is sad the way you manage this business. I spend nearly 2.5 hours at your office to resolve the issue and finally I had to pay the insurance either way. I feel very disappointed.
Rated no. 12
NU Car
4.1 Okay (14 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
NU Car
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
1.4km E. Of Holidayinn Express+506 2442 6000
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
  • 5.1
  • 4.9
  • 4.1
  • 4.9
  • 3.9
Recent reviews
2.0 Mediocre27 Mar 2022
We liked the air conditioning but that’s the end of our praise for the vehicle. While driving with my family inside, the brakes failed without warning and left us narrowly avoiding a head on collision by using the hand brake. When we called Nu Car rentals they had the nerve to suggest the brakes possibly failed due to “the way we were driving.” The truth was that the tires were all almost completely bald, but had been painted black to look newer. The spare tire on the back had deep gouges and was also deceptively painted with a fresh coat of black paint. This was one of the scariest experiences I’ve ever had while driving. It took them a full 48 hours to replace the car and when they did they brought the same exact model and make car with even more miles! The car whose brakes had failed appeared to be a much older model than the registration indicated. A google search of the vin number resulted in a much older year as suspected so we are assuming the rental car company is altering and then lying to clients about the age of its vehicles which is indefensible. We wouldn’t recommend anyone use this car service and we will also be pursuing legal liability actions against them to the extent that is possible.
6.0 Good16 Mar 2022
Finding the shuttle wasn’t easy. Too many taxi drivers along path to shuttle. Very happy with staff.
6.0 Good15 Mar 2022
The 12 seater van we renter had NO storage space for luggage. None. The windshield wipers were old and not cleaning the windshield properly. The office told us we must get their insurance, supposedly it was mandatory. They would not let us use the insurance provided by our credit card issuer claiming we would have to have it printed out and stamped with a round stamp from the card issuer confirming they would provide the insurance. Racketeering? Unethical behavior? The van did its job, did not break down but smelled a bit and was too small for 12 people.
2.0 Mediocre12 Mar 2022
Original price was $245 for 9 days. Upon arrival it was now $700 for insurance and a $500 security deposit. What a scam.
2.0 Mediocre18 Feb 2022
Horrible Company to rent a car from. The vehicle was a piece of junk. They charged $397 declined insurance fee or $377 mandatory insurance fee... complete rip-offs! Getting in touch with someone in case of an emergency is almost impossible.... never again.
8.0 Excellent16 Feb 2022
Pretty easy rental transaction, once we got all the insurance issues worked out. The one main issue I have is that they don't publicly tell you that you have to have BOTH liability and comprehensive insurance in Costa Rica, which essentially doubles the cost of your car. So whatever you see advertised as the "price", double it so you include all the insurance you need to buy.
2.0 Mediocre9 Feb 2022
No. Don’t rent from this company. Scam scam scam.
4.0 Okay25 Jan 2022
The car was great. The service was great. What wasn’t fine was the $850 insurance bill and $3,000 hold for the vehicle at the time of pickup. Although we are financially stable and this was no problem for us, this could be a huge problem for someone who is on a tighter budget vacation. We didn’t appreciate not being told that beforehand and want to make sure it doesn’t happen to anyone else.
2.0 Mediocre23 Jan 2022
We had a reservation in Costa Rica. Our flight was delayed a day. I called and I emailed them and got confirmation that I could pick up the car a day late. I agreed to pay for the day we didn't use. When we got there to San Jose Airport in Costa Rica we were told they didn't have our car. I showed them the confirmation and they could have cared less. Do not use them. My rental car went from 350 dollars to 1170.00. Never again! They do not care that we had everything in writing.
2.0 Mediocre29 Nov 2021
Nu had no confirmation of our booking, even though I received a confirmation the day before we left for our trip.
Rated no. 13
Economy Rent a Car
4 Okay (26 reviews)
5 locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Economy Rent a Car
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Alajuela Airport Boulevard+506 2299 2000
Downtown San Jose+506 2299 2000
Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport+506 2299 2000
Main Street Jaco+506 2299 2000
San Pedro+506 2299 2000
  • 5.9
  • 5.1
  • 3.6
  • 3.6
  • 2.7
Recent reviews
2.0 Mediocre6 Apr 2022
I prepaid $700 for my rental car on line understanding that I would have a pay for insurance. Estimates from my guidebook indicated that it would be $10-$30 per day for a 9 day trip. When I arrived I was charged $825 or $90 per day for insurance alone. I had prepaid so I couldn’t change car companies and felt cheated. I was told I should have read the fine print. If that is the policy, it should be made very clear the the cost of insurance will exceed the cost of the rental.
2.0 Mediocre5 Apr 2022
The price online is not the real price, be aware that you’ll need to pay around double this amount for the actually rental as they do not include insurance in these prices and then surprise you with it at pick up. Sleazy method of getting customers in the door thinking they got a good deal, as if they advertised the true prices it wouldn’t look so appealing.
4.0 Okay14 Mar 2022
Wouldn’t accept my credit card insurance coverage without a written letter—which is not a legal requirement but something they do so they can sell you their insurance. It was labeled as “on site” at airport. It was not. The car was pretty beat to hell.
10.0 Excellent15 Feb 2022
We accidentally booked the car at the location 30 minutes away. The employee quickly identified the issue and they found us a car at the airport location. They did this by letting us take a reserved car and driving a replacement car up from the further location. No hassle and no extra charge. They were way more accommodating than what I have experienced in the US.
9.2 Excellent25 Jul 2018
It adds up quickly!Staff was great, car was great, pick up and drop was great!The added fees and taxes adds up quickly!
2.0 Mediocre14 May 2018
$65 price with a $450 surchargeI paid $65 for a reservation. When I got to their office, they informed me there's a $450 insurance surcharge on top. On top of that, they didn't cancel my reservation when I asked - the charge still shows up on my card.
2.0 Mediocre4 Apr 2018
TERRIBLEnothingrenting a car through kayak was a complete fraud. online they give you one very economic price and then the final price was more than 3 times as much. kayak offered an insurance policy which I purchased and then the rental company told me that the policy there did not suffice and I had to get their own policy which was required by the government. Also, when they gave me the car it had less than half the gas tank. when i returned it on the same level they complained and charged me for gas which was double the price i payed for filling up the whole tank once. totally disappointed by the company and by kayak.
4.0 Okay21 Feb 2018
Costa Rica charges 3x the contract priceNice new Hyundai Tuscan. Spacious and good economy.Agency does not even pretend to honor prebooking price. Charged more than 3x the daily rate, then added mandatory insurance which doubled the total price. No benefit to prebooking. Very disappointed. I’d give the overall rating zero stars, but that is not an option.
6.8 Good20 Feb 2018
They dont tell you about the insurance when booking online. Once you get there they tell you to buy some mandatory insurance and on top of that give you a different car. Also when booking a car, you pick one car but it books a different car. Rip off.
6.4 Good16 Feb 2018
Hidden Insurance is a HUGE money maker for themWe received a fairly new hon Day Tucson, the car drove well aside from a few sounds we heard coming from underneath the car and from the tire. Air-conditioning blue ice cold which is great in the hot Costa Rican weather we were supposed to receive a manual transmission but received an automatic transmission so that was kind of a plus .What I didn’t like is that I paid online $50 for the rental which I thought was an amazing deal, where economy gets you is they tell you the insurance that you bye is not enough to cover what you need in Costa Rica, so you’re required to pay minimum $600 for insurance, which 200 gets returned to you because it was a deposit. We usually rent cars every vacation we go on. The insurance included is normally enough. In Italy we spent the same amount of money as we did in Costa Rica but we were able to keep the car for three weeks versus three days
Rated no. 14
Hertz
3.3 Mediocre (10 reviews)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Hertz
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Juan Santamaria Intl Apto.+506 2221 1818
Monday05:00 - 22:30
Tuesday05:00 - 22:30
Wednesday05:00 - 22:30
Thursday05:00 - 22:30
Friday05:00 - 22:30
Saturday05:00 - 22:30
Sunday05:00 - 22:30
  • 4.4
  • 3.8
  • 2.6
  • 3
  • 2.8
Recent reviews
6.0 Good14 Jan 2018
Car was in good shapeThe reservation price didn't include a $30/day mandatory insurance fee that is required I'm Costa Rica. So, my quote was for $7xx, and total cost was actually $1100. AND, the guy at the ciunter was a total dick and kept trying to sell us on the optional insurance to make us pay EVEN MORE. UGH.
5.2 Okay9 Jun 2017
Bait and Switch with Hertz in San Jose Costa RicaWe were given a very good rate when we booked but when we showed up we not given an option of taking out additional insurance. We discussed at length- the entire process of renting the car took a very long time. They tried to charge me over $500. After much discussion they wouldn't let us take the car for an amount that was over 3x the quoted rate. We really needed to get going and the Hertz facility is away from the airport so reluctantly signed. The front desk employee was rude and found VERY small print to justify the increase in the rate. I will not use Hertz again at this location.
3.2 Mediocre10 Mar 2017
DissapointingNot muchThe internet booking site was COMPLETELY mis-leading. It made no mention of the exorbitant insurance fees. It felt like fraud. I'm not sure I'll ever use Hertz again, especially in Costa Rica.
2.0 Mediocre26 Feb 2017
Never againNothingCar had over 100,000 miles no power and was charged almost triple my quoted rate because no one at booking says you will be asked to get Costa Rican insurance. So my $80 car was $230. Don't buy the third party insurance it's useless here in CR. More money lost. Not happy at all
2.0 Mediocre20 Feb 2017
Didn't have my car available despite reservationnothingThey gave my car away. They literally had no automatic cars available the day I arrived at their location. I had to find another rental car company on the spot that day.
Rated no. 15
E-Z Rent-A-Car
2 Mediocre (1 review)
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
E-Z Rent-A-Car
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
San Jose International Airport - Europcar+506 2440 9990
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
  • 2
  • 2
  • 2
  • 2
  • 2
Recent reviews
Sunnycars
2 locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Sunnycars
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Mango Plaza 111, 1km North Of Juan
Station is on Airport grounds
Recent reviews
ADOBE
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
ADOBE
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
San Jose International Airport
Recent reviews
Amigo Rent A Car
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Amigo Rent A Car
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
San Jose Airport+506 2442 8585
Monday04:30 - 23:59
Tuesday04:30 - 23:59
Wednesday04:30 - 23:59
Thursday04:30 - 23:59
Friday04:30 - 23:59
Saturday04:30 - 23:59
Sunday04:30 - 23:59
Recent reviews
Apex
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Apex
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Juan Santa Maria Intl Apo
Recent reviews
Deal Mobility Rent a Car
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Deal Mobility Rent a Car
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Provincia de Alajuela, Alajuela, Costa Rica
Recent reviews
Discount Service Car Rental
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Discount Service Car Rental
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
La Uruca 5 Blocks West From Hospital Mexico5-062-294-2354
Recent reviews
easyCar
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
easyCar
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
San Jose Intl Airport+506 2442 2422
Recent reviews
EC Rent a Car
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
EC Rent a Car
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Provincia de Alajuela, Rio Segundo, , Costa Rica+506 7004 0090
Recent reviews
Firefly
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Firefly
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Rio Segundo+506 2443 4645
Monday05:00 - 22:30
Tuesday05:00 - 22:30
Wednesday05:00 - 22:30
Thursday05:00 - 22:30
Friday05:00 - 22:30
Saturday05:00 - 22:30
Sunday05:00 - 22:30
Recent reviews
FlexWays
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
FlexWays
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Juan Santamaría International Airport+54 11 6009 3539
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
Recent reviews
GREEN MOTION
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
GREEN MOTION
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
ALAJUELA AIRPORT Office is located across from Hampton Inn Hotel+506 2441 1411
Recent reviews
keddy by Europcar
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
keddy by Europcar
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
San Jose Airport
Recent reviews
Mirage Car Rental
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Mirage Car Rental
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
San Jose Airport
Recent reviews
Move Mee
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Move Mee
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Alajuela International Airport
Recent reviews
NextCar
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
NextCar
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
600 meters East of the Airport+506 7004 0090
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
Recent reviews
Right Cars
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Right Cars
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
San Jose Airport
Recent reviews
Routes Car & Truck Rentals
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Routes Car & Truck Rentals
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
500 Mts East+506 2430 0629
Recent reviews
Sixt
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Sixt
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Oficentro Plaza aeropuerto C3+506 2431 3803
Monday06:00 - 23:30
Tuesday06:00 - 23:30
Wednesday06:00 - 23:30
Thursday06:00 - 23:30
Friday06:00 - 23:30
Saturday06:00 - 23:30
Sunday06:00 - 23:30
Recent reviews
Sovoy
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Sovoy
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
San Jose Airport Juan Santamaria SJO+506 2436 2070
Recent reviews
Target Car Rental
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Target Car Rental
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
San Jose Airport
Recent reviews
U-Save
1 location in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
U-Save
Locations in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport
Rio Segundo+506 2430 4648
Recent reviews
405 travellers who rented a car in San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport gave the car agency they used an average rating of 5.7

Car rental locations at San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport

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Good to know

Most popular car type

Intermediate

Top tips for renting a car at San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport

  • Getting a car hire at San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport means starting your trip to Costa Rica with total flexibility. Public transport in Costa Rica requires significant planning ahead due to most buses being privately owned with different routes and fees that can be difficult to research. Thus, it is quite easy to get on the wrong bus. Many don't have air conditioning so your own vehicle is the best way to stay cool in hot weather. Having your vehicle waiting at the terminal or a nearby depot means you won't need to worry about planning every detail and can experience Costa Rica at your own pace right from the start of your trip.
  • Alamo offers an accelerated check-in which allows you to upload documentation such as your driving licence and passport which would usually be processed at the service desk. It can then be verified ahead of time to expedite the process when you get to the service desk. So you can simply present your booking confirmation and payment information and be on your way. Alamo and Economy Rent-A-Car are both open 24h a day. National offers one-way hire at no extra cost.
  • You may wish to take your San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport hired car out of Costa Rica and into neighbouring countries. Bear in mind that cross border hires must be arranged at least 3 days in advance so we recommend organising this when you process your booking at the terminal, if possible. Most companies will not allow you to take the same vehicle over the border, however, companies like Alamo and National will allow you to travel to another depot at the border and exchange your vehicle for an extra fee.
  • Make sure you know the returns process when you pick up your vehicle and note down the deadline or time slot you are expected to return the vehicle by to avoid late fees. If you are transferred via shuttle to a different depot to pick up your vehicle, this is likely where you will be asked to return it, after which you will be provided with a shuttle to the terminal. Take note of whether you need to refuel your vehicle before returning it. You may wish to consider prepaid fuel, offered by companies such as Alamo and Enterprise where you pay ahead of time for the full petrol tank and can return it empty at a discount to the local fuel prices.
  • Book your rental car at San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price

FAQs about renting a car at San José Juan Santamaria Intl Airport