Car Rental in Puntarenas | Book at Unbeatable Prices

1. What is the cost to rent a car in Puntarenas?

The cost of car rental in Puntarenas varies depending on the car model, rental period and season. Prices generally range from $35 to $120 per day. Remember to check in advance for any special offers!

2. Which car model is the most popular for rent in Puntarenas?

In Puntarenas, SUVs and 4x4s are the most in-demand due to the city's proximity to several national parks and outdoor attractions. These car models can better handle the terrain of these locations.

3. Where are the most popular places to rent a car in Puntarenas?

The most popular places to rent a car in Puntarenas are at the international airports and in the city center. One popular location is the Juan Santamaría International Airport.

4. Is there a 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service available?

Yes, most car rental companies in Puntarenas offer a 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service for their customers’ convenience.

5. What is the minimum rental period?

Typically, the minimum rental period for a car in Puntarenas is one day. However, companies may offer hourly rates for shorter needs.

6. What is the minimum age required to rent a car in Puntarenas?

The minimum age to rent a car in Puntarenas is usually 21 years. However, drivers under 25 may be subject to young driver fees.

7. What documentation is needed to rent or drive a car in Puntarenas?

A valid driver's license and a credit card in the driver’s name are necessary for renting a car in Puntarenas. International driving licenses may be required for non-Costa Rican residents.

8. When is the best time to visit Puntarenas by car?

The best time to visit Puntarenas by car is during the dry season from December to April, when roads are generally in good condition.

9. What are the primary Puntarenas airports?

The major airports in Puntarenas are Puntarenas Airport and Tobias Bolaños International Airport.

10. Can I pick up the car in Puntarenas and return it in a different city?

Yes, most car rental companies in Puntarenas offer one-way car rentals to different cities but it may incur an additional fee.

1. Puntarenas to San Jose: Approximately 103 km, 2 hour drive predominantly along Route 1. Roads are in good condition but can be heavy with traffic.
2. Puntarenas to Jaco: Around 81 km distance and 1 hour 10 mins drive via Route 34. Good road conditions with scenic coastal views.
3. Puntarenas to Monteverde: Nearly 68 km, roughly 1.5-hour drive via Route 606. Steep and winding roads require cautious driving.
4. Puntarenas to Arenal Volcano: Almost 141 km, close to 3 hours drive via Route 1 & 142. Roads are in satisfactory condition even though the ascent can be quite sharp.
5. Puntarenas to Manuel Antonio National Park: Around 135 km, 2.5 to 3-hour drive via Route 34. Road conditions are good, with an easygoing scenic drive.
6. Puntarenas to Paquera: It's a short 49 km, approximately a 1 hour drive via Route 621 and the Paquera-Ferry-Tambor. Road conditions are generally good.
7. Puntarenas to Liberia: Distance is nearly 123 km requiring a 2-hour drive predominantly via Route 1. Roads are in good condition, and the route often features light traffic.

1. What is the standard speed limit in Puntarenas?

In general, the speed limit ranges from 40 km/h in urban areas to 90 km/h on highways, but please always pay attention to local signs.

2. Do I need a special license to drive a car in Puntarenas?

Foreign drivers can drive with their home country license for three months. However, the license must be valid, and it must be in Roman characters, or accompanied by an official translation.

3. Are there radar speed traps in Puntarenas?

Yes, there are radar speed traps along the roads, and fines for speeding are high.

4. Do I have to pay tolls while driving in Puntarenas?

Yes, there are few toll roads in Puntarenas. You will usually pay in cash, but some toll booths also accept cards.

5. Are there specific driving rules I should be aware of?

As a common rule, yield to vehicles coming from your right. Always use your indicators when turning or changing lanes. Additionally, children must be in a car seat until they are 12 years old or over 1.5m tall.

6. What about traffic in Puntarenas?

Traffic during peak hours in Puntarenas can be heavy. Make sure you plan your journey and allow extra time.

7. On which side of the road does Puntarenas drive?

In Puntarenas, and all of Costa Rica, driving is on the right side of the road.

8. Is it mandatory to have car insurance in Puntarenas?

Yes, third-party liability insurance is required by law in Costa Rica.

9. Can I turn right at a red light in Puntarenas?

No, in Costa Rica, it's generally prohibited to turn on red unless there's a sign indicating otherwise.

10. Are there parking rules that I need to be aware of?

Yes, in general, you shouldn't park at yellow or red curbs, or where it's explicitly prohibited. Additionally, parking meters are used in some areas.

11. What do I do if I get a traffic fine?

In Costa Rica, traffic fines are associated with the vehicle, so you should inform your rental company as soon as possible.

12. Can I use a handheld mic while driving?

No, it's illegal to use handheld mics or other communication devices while driving in Costa Rica.

13. Is it mandatory to carry specific items in the car?

Yes, it's required by law to carry a fire extinguisher, warning triangles, and a first-aid kit in the car.

14. What documents should I carry while driving?

You should always have your driver's license, passport and rental car documents while driving.

15. Can I drive off-road in Puntarenas?

It's highly recommended not to drive off-road due to potential vehicle damage, safety concerns and environmental protection rules.

1. Manuel Antonio National Park: Iconic national park with rich biodiversity and pristine beaches.
2. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Famous for its unique cloud forest and hanging bridges.
3. Sendero Tranquilo Reserve: Perfect for hiking and birdwatching in secluded rainforest.
4. Puntarenas Cathedral: Historic church showcasing Gothic Revival architectural style.
5. Carara National Park: Another beautiful park known for its rich wildlife and flora.
6. Marina Pez Vela: Must-visit marina with shops, restaurants and great sunset views.
7. Rancho Tipico Don Juan: Offers authentic Costa Rican cultural and culinary experience.
8. Quepos, Costa Rica: Small, lively harbor town, perfect for shopping and dining.

1. Puntarenas to Arenal Volcano: A roughly 165km trip taking you through the panoramic landscapes of Costa Rica, lush rainforest views and ending at the majestic Arenal Volcano.
2. Pan-American Highway: This longest road in the world stretches across the country. From Puntarenas, it's roughly 470km drive up to the Nicaraguan border.
3. Puntarenas to Corcovado National Park: A 335km route, taking you to a natural paradise where you'll explore the country’s biodiversity up close.
4. Route to Manuel Antonio National Park: Approximately 100km southeast of Puntarenas, a beautiful coastline drive culminating at the country's most popular National Park.
5. Puntarenas to Nicoya Peninsula: A 60km trip with a ferry ride to the Nicoya Peninsula, known for its dreamy beaches and surfing.
6. Puntarenas to Monteverde Cloud Forest: Roughly 70km route via a mountain road, this area is one of the richest and most diverse tropical cloud forests globally.
7. Jaco Beach Drive: A short 70km trip from Puntarenas, leading to Jaco a bustling beach town with a party vibe.