Driving in Costa Rica can be a challenge to the newcomer. Until travelers get used to the roads and local driving habits, it is best to avoid driving at night, especially outside the city, never leave anything of value in a parked car (even if it’s in the trunk and the car is locked), and always drive defensively. Hazards include pedestrians, animals on the road, huge potholes, pavement that suddenly ends, unlit vehicles, sudden fog in mountain areas, torrential rains, and reckless drivers.
To explore Costa Rica in the most adventurous way and with the most freedom, an excellent alternative is to rent a car. Among the models to choose from are:
- Mitsubishi Lancer
- Suzuki Jimny
- Daihatsu BeGo
- Hyundai Tucson
- Mitsubishi Nativa
- Mitsubishi Montero
- Hyundai Starex
The majority of these cars are manual transmission (stick shift); among some models you will be able to obtain cars with automatic transmission. Conditions for renting cars:
Conditions:
- Minimum 21 years of age.
- Present passport and a currently valid driver’s license.
- The rates include unlimited mileage for rentals of more than three days.
- The insurance for collision, turning over, and responsibility for damage to third party is required by law.
- The daily rental rate does not include the deposit, gasoline, additional driver, or other insurance options.
- A credit card should be presented with a minimum availability of US$1,000 for the deposit.
- The laws of Costa Rica require that the driver and passengers use safety belts.
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