Due to its challenging nature, driving in Costa Rica is not for everyone. Before you get behind the wheel of a car in Costa Rica and take on to the country’s driveways, make sure you consider the following aspects.
Costa Rica car hire prices are generally higher than in the US, so it if you want to save money, a small compact car is your best option. Prices vary from a company to another, and depending on the vehicle. Renting a small or medium car for a week can cost you anything from $250 to $300, mandatory insurance included.
Compared to other countries, driving in Costa Rica is much riskier. Reasons include a very high vehicle accident rate, the poor condition of most roads, and a rather confusing street and traffic sign system.
Although all this may sound discouraging, the driving experience in Costa Rica ultimately depends on your comfort level, driving skills and lastly, sense of adventure. For instance, many people who had never driven outside of the US found the whole Costa Rican driving thing scary but a fun experience nonetheless. Therefore, in the end, if you take it easy and slow, and focus on making every road trip as safe as possible, you should be fine.
Compared to the impeccable highways of the United States or Germany’s famous Autobahn, the road conditions in Costa Rica are very poor. The entire road infrastructure is substandard, with even the biggest highway in the country being nothing more than a two-lane road, and considering drivers have to negotiate their way around huge potholes, bumps and many other obstacles.
The state of the roads becomes even worse during the rainy season, when road washouts from mudslides are quite common. While the road conditions in the beach areas are just as bad, the actual driving experience is slightly more relaxed, as there is less traffic to deal with and people tend to drive a little slower.
Renting a car in Costa Rica may entail different requirements depending on the car rental service you hire, so check with your car agency for a complete list with details. Most rent a car Costa Rica companies require a valid driver’s license, a valid passport with your entry stamp, the country-imposed liability insurance, and to be at least 21 years of age.
Local govern law mandates the closing of INS (Instituto Nacional de Seguros) liability insurance, irrespective of your own car insurance coverage or credit card coverage. The cost ranges from $10 to $20 USD per day, depending on the vehicle, and the INS insurance only provides coverage for damages to other people, cars, or property. To receive coverage for damages to the rental car or yourself, you will need to buy subsidiary insurance, unless your own car insurance policy or credit card already covers that.
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