Car Rental at San Jose Airport
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates
Mini
Chevrolet Beat
or similar
$23.35
per day
Standard
Mitsubishi Lancer
or similar
$42.20
per day
Compact
Chevrolet Beat
or similar
$53.67
per day
Economy
Hyundai i10
or similar
$71.06
per day
Most Popular Car Rental Deals
Intermediate
Mitsubishi Outlander 2WD Aut.
or similar
$80.79
/ per day
Full-size
Nissan Navara
or similar
$152.43
/ per day
Special
Toyota Rush
or similar
$177.99
/ per day
Premium
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
or similar
$275.86
/ per day
The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 03:01 on 2022-07-25. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Awards
World Travel Awards - World's Leading Car Rental Booking Website 2020
World Travel Awards - World's Leading Car Rental Booking App 2020
2021 Magellan Awards Silver Winner
Travel & Hospitality Awards 2021
2021 FT 1000: Europes Fastest Growing Companies - Top 100 Companies
2020 FT 1000: Europe's Fastest Growing Companies - Top 100 Companies
Uzakrota Travel Awards - World’s Leading Car Rental Website 2020
2019 Inc. 5000 Europe - Top 500 Companies
Travel Information
Language
Spanish,
English
English
Currency
CRC
Traffic direction
Right-hand
Country code
506
Economy car rental price
$64.92 / per day
Average car rental length
10 days
Speed limit within town
40 km/h
25 mi/h
Speed limit out of town
40 - 60 km/h
25 - 37 mi/h
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.02%
Average gasoline price
$1.20 / 1 liter
Highest gasoline price
$1.51 / 1 liter
Lowest gasoline price
$1.06 / 1 liter
Airport Car Rental
Arguably the most popular travel destination in Central America, Costa Rica is known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and imposing volcanoes. Although sometimes overlooked for these natural riches, the national capital, San Jose, and the region that surrounds it also offer plenty of excitement and things to see and do. These are three of the most interesting experiences in and around San Jose:
- The Gold Museum. Also known as the Pre-Columbian Museum, this cultural institution features in practically every tourism booklet of San Jose, but that is only a testament to how interesting it is. Dedicated to the heritage of the many fascinating indigenous cultures that inhabited the area before the arrival of the Europeans, it has a special focus on their goldwork and jewelry.
- Cartago. The former capital of Costa Rica, Cartago has lost some of its political importance, but none of the charm. Home to fascinating colonial architecture, the jewel of which is the Our Lady of the Angels Basilica, the municipality is also home to the ruins of Ujarrás and natural sites like Tapantí National Park. The drive from San Jose to Cartago takes only about 40 minutes.
- Braulio Carrillo National Park. A stunning protected area of high peaks, crater lakes, and tropical forests, Braulio Carillo is only a short drive north of the capital. There are numerous hiking trails in its territory that range in difficulty from relaxing strolls to demanding multi-day adventures. Natives of the park include the solitary eagle, great green macaw, Northern tamandua anteater, and ocelot.
Top international routes
- Panama City
- Houston
- Miami
- San Salvador
- Mexico City
- Fort Lauderdale
Main airlines
Nature Air, Sansa Airlines, Volaris Costa Rica, Avianca Costa Rica, American Airlines, and Copa Airlines
Terminals
The Main Terminal (M) serves all international flights while Domestic Terminal, also known as Sansa Terminal, serves local flights. You can walk between them in less than five minutes.
Location
San Jose Airport is actually in the city of Alajuela, a suburb of San Jose. The airport is about 20 km (12 mi) west of San Jose city center. Radial Francisco J. Orlich and Route 1 are the main roads connecting the airport to the city.
Most popular types of rental car
- Large cars - from $120 per day
- Medium cars - from $96 per day
- Vans - from $217 per day
- Small cars - from $82 per day
- SUVs - from $190 per day
Car rental desks
Most are located in the international arrivals area.
Services and facilities
You’ll find many shops, six duty-free outlets, as well as restaurants and bars. There are also ATMs, two currency exchange offices, a Red Cross Station offering medical help, a pharmacy, and spa. There is no luggage storage service
Nearest gas station
A Delta gas station, located near the corner of Route 1/Pan American Highway and Route 3, can be reached in about 12 minutes and is open 24/7. It’s on the way to the city center. There are many other gas stations near San Jose Airport and in San Jose.
Popular one-way rentals
- Malpais (154 km / 95 mi)
- Liberia (199 km / 123 mi)
- Puerto Viejo (83 km / 51 mi)
- Guapiles (82 km / 50 mi)
- Managua (411 km / 255 mi)
- Rivas (310 km / 192 mi)
Airport info
Juan Santamaria International Airport (San José Airport) (SJO)
- IATA: SJO
- ICAO: MROC
- Name: Juan Santamaria International Airport (San José Airport) (SJO)
- Size: Medium Airport
- Aircraft movements (per year): 87,771
- Passengers (per year): 4,595,355
- Working hours: 24 hours a day
Top 11 Locations near Juan Santamaria International Airport (San José Airport)
-
Car Rental in San Jose Belen from $111.26 per day3.6 km / 2.3 miles away
-
Car Rental at America Free Zone from $42.01 per day4.3 km / 2.7 miles away
-
Car Rental at San Jose-Hotel Ramada Herradura from $111.26 per day4.8 km / 3.0 miles away
-
Car Rental in San Jose La Uruca from $210.03 per day11.1 km / 6.9 miles away
-
Car Rental in San Jose San Pedro from $71.06 per day14.7 km / 9.1 miles away
-
Car Rental at Quepos La Managua Airport from $41.78 per day63.2 km / 39.2 miles away
-
Car Rental at Liberia Airport from $23.35 per day161.4 km / 100.3 miles away
-
Car Rental at Papagayo Secrets Costa Rica Resort & Spa from $175.37 per day172.2 km / 107.0 miles away
-
Car Rental at Tamarindo Airport from $38.12 per day180.5 km / 112.1 miles away
-
Car Rental at Playa Conchal/Westin Resort from $68.98 per day181.0 km / 112.5 miles away
-
Car Rental at Tamarindo JW Marriott Hotel from $160.51 per day182.5 km / 113.4 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
When are car rental prices cheapest at San Jose Airport?
The cost of renting a car at San Jose Airport depends on the time of year. This graph compares month-to-month price changes to help you find the best deal.
Average Rental Price at San Jose Airport
The cheapest time of the year to rent a vehicle at San Jose Airport is April when prices for an Economy class start from $28.32. You can see that this is 26% cheaper than the yearly average and 48% cheaper than renting a car in July (when rental prices start at $54.71 for a Compact class). Knowing this can help you find the best price. But remember that these are average numbers. The exact cost of your rental will depend on your rental length and on how far in advance you book the car. Enter your travel dates at the top of the page to see exact prices and offers!
What’s the most popular rental length at San Jose Airport?
Travel length differs from one month to another: in December the average rental period is 11 days, while in October, the average rental period is only 6 days.
Average Rental Length
Which is the busiest car rental month at San Jose Airport?
Travelers are most likely to rent a car at San Jose Airport in December, while the fewest number of travelers rent in June.
Popularity by Monthly Searches
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avis | Nissan Kicks | 4 | 3 | SUVs |
| AmiGO Rent a Car | Chevrolet Beat | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| AmiGO Rent a Car | Toyota Yaris | 4 | 1 | Medium cars |
| Avis | Nissan Qashqai | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| AmiGO Rent a Car | Toyota Corolla | 4 | 2 | Large cars |
| AmiGO Rent a Car | Toyota Yaris | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| AmiGO Rent a Car | Toyota Rush | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| AmiGO Rent a Car | Toyota Rush | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| Flexways | Renault Duster | 4 | 5 | SUVs |
| NUCarrentals | Suzuki Jimmy 3 door | 3 | 3 | SUVs |
FAQ
Can I enter Nicaragua from Costa Rica for a day?
No, it is not possible to take a rental car from Costa Rica to Nicaragua. No rental company in Costa Rica allows this.
Is Third-Party Liability (TPL) insurance included in the rental price in Costa Rica?
"If you are not a resident of the United States or Canada, third-party liability insurance is included in the rental price.
If you are a resident of the United States or Canada, whether third-party insurance is included or not depends on which rental company you choose. In particular, Economy Rent a Car and Mex do not have third-party liability insurance included in their rates.
If you are a resident of the United States or Canada, whether third-party insurance is included or not depends on which rental company you choose. In particular, Economy Rent a Car and Mex do not have third-party liability insurance included in their rates.
Our Customers Reviews
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have an option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic, verified, and trustworthy.
JR
United States of America (USA)
Nissan Versa
May 20, 2022
We travelled from San Jose, Costa Rica to the west coast and visited beaches there. Also famous park with monkeys. We drove for a week and had no problem finding lodging on the way. It was very safe. You really need GPS because roads are complicated and drivers are fast. It’s better to drive outside San Jose. The capital is very difficult to drive: good luck yielding to traffic or going slower. We saw many accidents.
EV
Netherlands
Hyundai Creta
May 7, 2022
I honestly think that in Costa Rica you should only be able to rent 4X4 cars. The roads are really bad.
SF
Czech Republic
Chevrolet Beat
April 10, 2022
Overall a great experience
LG
United States of America (USA)
Chevrolet Beat
March 27, 2022
Learn Spanish. Convert US dollars to CR colones. Be prepared to travel for hours to various sightseeing places. Most all beaches (pacific coast) are brown 'muddy' type sand altho there are some with clear water and white ish sand-very crowded. Enjoyed the visit overall and will return.
IZ
Israel
Mitsubishi ASX 4WD Aut.
January 2, 2022
Should improve the return proccess such that clients dropping off the car would not have to wait in line with clients picking up .
DR
United States of America (USA)
Nissan X-Trail
October 26, 2021
Drove from San Jose to Quepos. Roads are in good condition but bikers, motorcyclists, and congestion can make the drive longer than expected. Plan extra time going back to San Jose, especially in the evening.
BV
Netherlands
Toyota Yaris Sedan
September 6, 2021
We hired a car in Costa Rica and some roads we could not take as they were only 4x4. Especially on the west coast this was an issue. We also visited the Blue Falls of Costa Rica and Catarata del Toro. The road was that steep that the car engine could hardly get us going. With only 20 km/h we drove upwards. Make sure you have a strong car in Costa Rica and preferably a 4x4.
AO
United States of America (USA)
Ssangyong Korando 4WD
July 30, 2021
We went first to the Arenal area and stayed for 5 days in a great b&b at Castillo de la Fortuna (Nephente). Followed by playa langosta area for a week, to Manuel Antonio for 4 nights, to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca for 5 nights. Loved Costa Rica!
TM
United States of America (USA)
Mitsubishi ASX
July 17, 2021
Jungle ATV tour in Uvida , is a must do.
BJ
United States of America (USA)
Ssangyong Korando 4WD
June 15, 2021
Driving in San Jose is very up tempo and you must stay alert at all times. So many motorcycles passing on both sides at all times.
DR
Sweden
Toyota Corolla Sedan
May 22, 2021
Excellent service, good price and fast and easy!
HB
United States of America (USA)
Daihatsu Bego
April 24, 2021
If you're staying at the airport (Hotel Mango or the two hotels by the casino) it's so much easier to get a car from GreenCars (or the other companies in the business complex here) than to drive to the other side of the airport and find the large companies' (Hertz, Avis etc.) offices.
GG
Switzerland
Toyota Yaris Sedan
April 16, 2021
Thank you i miss costa rica
SZ
Switzerland
Suzuki Jimny
March 15, 2021
When visiting Costa Rica, I highly recommend choosing a 4x4 (medium like Grand Vitara is better, but small like Jimny will do the job too). The streets around cities are in good condition, but as soon as you leave the "normal" roads to get to your hotel or a remote location, for example, streets turn quickly into bumpy roads. Especially on Nicoya Peninsula (Nosara, Santa Teresa, Montezuma).
CB
United Kingdom
Toyota Yaris
March 21, 2020
Quite hectic driving in the freeway initially - lots of fast inside overtaking . Don’t park where the pavement is yellow and watch out for one way streets where the sign is neither well placed or obvious! A lot of the roads are unpaved or half built but that’s the fun part! A 4x4 is recommended but not essential - we got a free upgrade anyway - the small automatics are really underpowered for overtaking and hills - go for a manual if you can ;)
Car Rental Statistics
Highest rated company
Adobe Rent a Car
9.28 / 10
Lowest rated company
Avis
6.63 / 10
Total number of reviews
13
Total rental companies
18
Average daily price
$64.92
Lowest daily price
$13.05
Total cars available
186
Top 18 Suppliers at San Jose Airport in 2022
+50625424848 / +50624422422 / +50624412219
1.4 Km Al Este Alajuela 20109, Alajuela, Río Segundo
$75 - $223
Working hours
Mon:05:00-22:00
Tue:05:00-22:00
Wed:05:00-22:00
Thu:05:00-22:00
Fri:05:00-22:00
Sat:05:00-22:00
Sun:05:00-22:00
+50622427907 / +50622427733
La Asunción De Belén, Calle Don Chico, Belen, 40703
$111 - $297
+50622427911 / +50622427878
500 Meters East And 200 Meters South Of Hotel Costa Rica Marriott, San Jose
$122 - $309
Enterprise
22427800
La Asuncion De Belen
$120 - $288
Working hours
Mon:00:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-23:59
Keddy
+50650640023857
Carretera Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaria, Shuttle Service
Working hours
Mon:06:00-23:00
Tue:06:00-23:00
Wed:06:00-23:00
Thu:06:00-23:00
Fri:06:00-23:00
Sat:06:00-23:00
Sun:06:00-23:00
Hertz
50622211818
Juan Santamaria Intl Apto.
Working hours
Mon:05:00-23:00
Tue:05:00-23:00
Wed:05:00-23:00
Thu:05:00-23:00
Fri:05:00-23:00
Sat:05:00-23:00
Sun:05:00-23:00
+50624313803
Oficentro Plaza aeropuerto C3
$69 - $469
+50625424848 / +50624422422 / +50624412219
1.4 Km Al Este Alajuela 20109, Alajuela, Río Segundo
$71 - $213
Working hours
Mon:05:00-22:00
Tue:05:00-22:00
Wed:05:00-22:00
Thu:05:00-22:00
Fri:05:00-22:00
Sat:05:00-22:00
Sun:05:00-22:00
Europcar
+50650640023857
Carretera Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaria, Shuttle Service
Working hours
Mon:06:00-23:00
Tue:06:00-23:00
Wed:06:00-23:00
Thu:06:00-23:00
Fri:06:00-23:00
Sat:06:00-23:00
Sun:06:00-23:00
+50624304647
Alajuela Province, Rio Segundo, San Jose
$79 - $108
Working hours
Mon:06:00-22:00
Tue:06:00-22:00
Wed:06:00-22:00
Thu:06:00-22:00
Fri:06:00-22:00
Sat:06:00-22:00
Sun:06:00-22:00
+50624432950
Alajuela Province, Alajuela
$93 - $201
Working hours
Mon:06:00-23:00
Tue:06:00-23:00
Wed:06:00-23:00
Thu:06:00-23:00
Fri:06:00-23:00
Sat:06:00-23:00
Sun:06:00-23:00
50687733000
500 meters East Casino Fiesta, Rio Segundo, Provincia de Alajuela, Alajuela, Costa Rica
Working hours
Mon:06:30-19:30
Tue:06:30-19:30
Wed:06:30-19:30
Thu:06:30-19:30
Fri:06:30-19:30
Sat:06:30-19:30
Sun:06:30-19:30
+50640367431 / +50640367400
3, Rio Segundo, Provincia de Alajuela, Alajuela, 20109
$100 - $397
Working hours
Mon:06:00-22:00
Tue:06:00-22:00
Wed:06:00-22:00
Thu:06:00-22:00
Fri:06:00-22:00
Sat:06:00-22:00
Sun:06:00-22:00
+50624362010
Juan Santamaría International Airport, Alajuela CR 20101, Alajuela Province, Río Segundo
$99 - $123
Working hours
Mon:06:00-23:00
Tue:06:00-23:00
Wed:06:00-23:00
Thu:06:00-23:00
Fri:06:00-23:00
Sat:06:00-23:00
Sun:06:00-23:00
+50624428585
From Juan Santamaría Airport, 1 Km E, 50 Mts N., San Jose
$23 - $124
Working hours
Mon:07:00-22:00
Tue:07:00-22:00
Wed:07:00-22:00
Thu:07:00-22:00
Fri:07:00-22:00
Sat:07:00-22:00
Sun:07:00-22:00
+50624426000
Alajuela Province, Alajuela, Costa Rica
$42 - $97
Working hours
Mon:06:00-23:00
Tue:06:00-23:00
Wed:06:00-23:00
Thu:06:00-23:00
Fri:06:00-23:00
Sat:06:00-23:00
Sun:06:00-23:00
+5491152599877
Aeropuerto Internacional Santamaría, Alajuela Province, Alajuela, Costa Rica
$54 - $64
+50622932222
Juan Santamaria Intl Apo
$120 - $262
Working hours
Mon:05:00-22:30
Tue:05:00-22:30
Wed:05:00-22:30
Thu:05:00-22:30
Fri:05:00-22:30
Sat:05:00-22:30
Sun:05:00-22:30