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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Jaco
Jaco
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Jaco
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Jaco
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Jaco
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 Rent a Car in Jaco?
Jaco is a vibrant coastal city in Costa Rica, known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. While transportation options exist, renting a car provides unparalleled freedom to explore Jaco and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
Explore Hidden Gems: With a rental car, you can easily access secluded beaches, waterfalls, and national parks that are off the beaten path and not easily accessible by public transport.
Day Trips Made Easy: Jaco is an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like Manuel Antonio National Park, Carara National Park, and the surfing paradise of Playa Hermosa. A car allows for convenient day trips without relying on tour schedules.
Flexibility and Independence: Public transportation can be infrequent or unreliable, especially when travelling outside of Jaco. A rental car gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary and explore at your own pace.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Jaco
Before renting a car in Jaco, it’s important to understand the standard terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Be aware of local regulations, insurance requirements, and potential extra fees.
Area
Approximately 24 square kilometres (9 square miles)
Population
Approximately 10,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)
Ideal for
Exploring beaches and national parks
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic during peak tourist season and weekends.
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Jaco require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have a minimum age of 25 for certain vehicle categories, and young driver surcharges may apply.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence from your home country is usually sufficient for renting a car in Costa Rica. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not always required. You will also need your passport and a credit card in the driver’s name.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is often included in the rental price, but it's advisable to consider additional coverage options like collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection. A security deposit will be held on your credit card and refunded upon the car's return, provided there is no damage.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMost rentals offer unlimited mileage, allowing you to explore without worrying about extra charges. Fuel policies vary, but many require you to return the car with the same amount of fuel as when you picked it up.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, GPS navigation systems, child seats, or late returns. Be sure to clarify these potential charges when booking.
Car Rental Prices in Jaco – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £25 / $31 / €28 per day
Classic:
from £15 / $19 / €17 per day
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
7 Seater:
from £45 / $56 / €51 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €23 per day
SUV:
from £22 / $28 / €25 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to April): Sees 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 Jaco?
Booking a car in Jaco is simple if you follow these steps. Proper planning and comparison can result in getting the best possible deal.
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 needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and terrain.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement for mileage limits, insurance coverage, and other important conditions.
4. Book in Advance - Book your car well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Ensure you have your driver’s licence, credit card, and passport ready when collecting your rental car.
General Information About Jaco
Jaco is a popular tourist destination on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, known for its surfing beaches, nightlife, and proximity to national parks.
As a vibrant beach town, Jaco offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Renting a car is a great way to explore beyond the town centre, but be mindful of local driving conditions and regulations. Costa Rica’s infrastructure can vary, so it’s best to be prepared, especially when venturing into more remote areas.
Top Attractions to Discover
Jaco Beach
The main beach in Jaco is known for its surf-friendly waves and lively atmosphere.
Manuel Antonio National Park
A stunning park with diverse wildlife and beautiful beaches, located a short drive from Jaco.
Carara National Park
A birdwatcher's paradise with abundant wildlife, easily accessible by car.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several paid parking lots are available in the centre of Jaco, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Limited on-street parking is available, but it can be difficult to find during peak hours. Be sure to check for parking regulations.
Hotel Parking
Many hotels offer free parking for guests, which can be a convenient option if you are staying in Jaco.
Gas Stations in Jaco
Main Fuel Chains
Look for gas stations from major brands like RECOPE and UNO along the main roads.
Refuelling Guidance
Gas stations are generally easy to find along the main routes. Be sure to have cash or a credit card for payment.
Fuel Availability
Fuel is readily available in and around Jaco, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding a place to fill up.
Useful Tips for Visiting Jaco
Be Aware of Road Conditions
Roads outside of Jaco can be unpaved or in poor condition, so consider renting an SUV for better handling.
Watch for Wildlife
Be mindful of wildlife crossing the roads, especially in national park areas.
Plan for Traffic
Traffic can be heavy during peak tourist seasons, especially on weekends. Allow extra time for travel.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike or explore national parks.
Key Transportation Hubs in Jaco
Major Bus Stations
Jaco Bus Terminal
The main bus terminal in Jaco provides connections to San José and other destinations.
Airports
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
Located near San José, this is the primary international airport serving Jaco. Car rentals are available at the airport.
Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ)
A smaller airport near San José, used mainly for domestic flights and private charters.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Jaco?
Renting a car in Jaco is a straightforward process, but you'll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here's what you’ll need
A valid driver's licence from your home country is required. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country licence for up to 3 months, but some may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Jaco 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.
Absolutely loved Jaco! Getting around with a car was a breeze.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 03.12.2024
Jaco was amazing! My family and I loved exploring with our car.
Thomas Brown
Reviewed: 08.11.2024
Family vacation in Jaco was perfect! Exploring the area with our rental car was so convenient.
David Lee
Reviewed: 16.08.2025
Chill vibes, good times.
Kevin Garcia
Reviewed: 01.03.2025
Relaxing, good drives
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 21.04.2025
Jaco was fantastic! Renting a car was a smooth process, making exploring the beaches and rainforests super easy. The beachside restaurants were a bit pricey, though.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 18.05.2025
Pretty chill, good views
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 02.06.2025
Jaco was fun; renting a car was a lifesaver. The beach was a bit underwhelming, though.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 07.07.2025
Jaco was perfect for our family! Exploring with a car was so liberating.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 28.02.2025
Pretty laid-back, good roads
Ethan Harris
Reviewed: 10.09.2024
Jaco was great, having a car made exploring easy. Summer crowds were intense though.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 06.10.2024