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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Cartago
Cartago
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Cartago
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Cartago
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Cartago
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Hire a Car in Cartago?
Cartago, Costa Rica's former capital, is a city brimming with historical charm and natural beauty. While local transportation options exist, hiring a car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems beyond the city centre.
Discover Historical Landmarks. Cartago is home to significant historical sites like the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles and the ruins of the old parish church. A hire car allows you to easily visit these landmarks and learn about the city's rich past.
Explore Nearby Natural Wonders. Just a short drive from Cartago, you'll find stunning natural attractions such as the Turrialba Volcano National Park and the Lankester Botanical Garden. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to explore these natural wonders at your leisure.
Enjoy Day Trips to the Orosi Valley. The picturesque Orosi Valley, known for its lush landscapes and coffee plantations, is easily accessible by car. A hire car allows you to embark on scenic day trips and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Costa Rican countryside.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Cartago
Before hiring a car in Cartago, it's crucial to understand the rental terms and conditions. Here are some essential points to consider.
Area
Approximately 152.68 square kilometres (58.95 square miles)
Population
Approximately 160,000 residents
Time Zone
CST (Central Standard Time), GMT-6
Ideal for
Exploring surrounding areas and natural attractions
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during morning and evening commute times
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsThe minimum age to hire a car in Costa Rica is typically 21 or 25, depending on the rental company. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s LicenseA valid driver's license from your country of residence is usually accepted. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not always required.
3. InsuranceBasic insurance is often included in the rental price, but it's advisable to consider additional coverage options such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection.
4. Security DepositA security deposit is typically required and held on your credit card. The amount can vary depending on the rental company and vehicle type.
5. Mileage and Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy to ensure it meets your needs. Fuel policies vary; some require you to return the car with a full tank, while others offer a prepaid fuel option.
Car Hire Prices in Cartago – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9 / $12 / €11 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to April): Expect higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (May to November): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Cartago?
Follow these simple steps to book a car in Cartago and ensure a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs and the terrain you plan to explore.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including insurance coverage and mileage limits.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better rates and vehicle availability by booking your hire car in advance.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver's license, credit card, and passport when picking up your hire car.
General Information About Cartago
Cartago is a city with a rich history and serves as a gateway to many of Costa Rica's natural wonders.
As the former capital of Costa Rica, Cartago offers a unique blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. Hiring a car provides the flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding areas, including national parks, valleys, and coffee plantations. While driving within Cartago is relatively straightforward, it's essential to be aware of local traffic laws and road conditions, especially when venturing outside the city centre. Familiarise yourself with parking regulations and fuel station locations to ensure a seamless and enjoyable driving experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles
A stunning basilica and a significant religious site in Costa Rica.
Ruins of the Old Parish Church
Historical ruins that offer a glimpse into Cartago's past.
Lankester Botanical Garden
A beautiful garden showcasing a diverse collection of orchids and other plants.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Available in the city centre, providing secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on some streets, but be mindful of time limits.
Parking near Attractions
Some attractions offer dedicated parking areas for visitors.
Gas Stations in Cartago
Main Fuel Chains
Look for gas stations from major brands like RECOPE and others.
Availability
Gas stations are readily available in and around Cartago.
Payment Options
Most gas stations accept cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting Cartago
Be Aware of Road Conditions
Road conditions can vary, especially in rural areas. Drive cautiously and be prepared for unpaved roads.
Plan for Traffic
Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, especially in the city centre. Plan your travel accordingly.
Carry Small Change
Small change is useful for parking meters and toll roads.
Respect Local Driving Customs
Be courteous to other drivers and pedestrians.
Key Transportation Hubs in Cartago
Major Bus Stations
Cartago Bus Terminal
The main bus terminal in Cartago, connecting to various destinations within Costa Rica.
Railway Stations
Cartago Railway Station
Serves local train routes.
Airports
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
Located approximately 30 kilometres (19 miles) from Cartago, serving international and domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Hire a Car in Cartago?
To hire a car in Cartago, Costa Rica, you'll need to meet a few essential requirements.
A valid driver's license from your country of residence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-residents.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 or 25 years old.
A valid credit or debit card in the renter's name is necessary for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required for international renters.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Cartago as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Back in Cartago after years away, and having a car made exploring so much easier! The countryside is stunning; I loved every minute.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 08.12.2024
Cartago was lovely for a weekend getaway. Having a car made everything easy, although the local bakery was a bit underwhelming.
David Lee
Reviewed: 18.04.2025
Pretty chill, overall.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 17.10.2024
Heard so much about Cartago, and it lived up to the hype! Having a car made exploring a breeze.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 19.03.2025
Relaxing, low-key vibe.
Maria Rodriguez
Reviewed: 17.08.2024
Needed a quick escape, so I spontaneously drove to Cartago for the weekend. Exploring the area with my rental car was incredibly easy and fun; the scenery was breathtaking!
Amelia Hernandez
Reviewed: 25.06.2025
Cartago was a delightful detour on our road trip. Getting around with a rental car was so easy, and we saw some amazing sights.
Benjamin Taylor
Reviewed: 24.01.2025
Quiet, pleasant enough.
Olivia Martinez
Reviewed: 03.06.2025
Cartago exceeded my expectations! Having a car was perfect for exploring, and I loved the relaxing beach time afterward. So peaceful.
Katherine Jones
Reviewed: 03.10.2024
Exploring Cartago by car was fantastic! So convenient to see the volcanoes and charming towns. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 27.03.2025