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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Malpais
Malpais
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Malpais
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Malpais
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Malpais
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 Malpais?
Malpais is a stunning coastal village known for its beautiful beaches, surf breaks, and lush surroundings. While it's relatively small, having a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore its hidden gems and the wider Nicoya Peninsula at your own pace.
Discover Hidden Beaches. Malpais and its neighbouring areas boast numerous secluded beaches and coves that are difficult to reach without your own transportation. A rental car allows you to access these pristine spots, perfect for relaxing, swimming, or surfing.
Explore the Nicoya Peninsula. With a car, you can easily venture beyond Malpais to visit nearby towns like Santa Teresa, Montezuma, and Tambor. Each offers unique attractions, from waterfalls and wildlife reserves to vibrant local markets.
Convenience and Flexibility. Public transport options in Malpais can be limited, and relying on taxis or shuttles can become costly and restrictive. A rental car gives you the freedom to set your own schedule and explore at your leisure.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Malpais
Before hiring a car in Malpais, it's crucial to understand the local terms and conditions. These include age requirements, licensing, insurance, and potential extra fees.
Area
Approximately 10 square kilometres
Population
Approximately 1,000 residents
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Ideal for
Off-road adventures
Rush Hours
Limited traffic congestion, mainly during peak tourist season
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Costa Rica require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may have a higher minimum age or charge additional fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license from your home country is usually sufficient for tourists. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not always required.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is often included in the rental price, but it's wise to consider additional coverage options for peace of mind. A security deposit is typically required, usually held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyUnlimited mileage is common, but always confirm the policy before booking. Fuel policies vary, so check whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, GPS rentals, child seats, or late returns. Be aware of potential fees for cleaning if the car is returned excessively dirty.
Car Hire Prices in Malpais – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £25 / $32 / €28 per day
Classic:
from £15 / $19 / €17 per day
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
7 Seater:
from £45 / $57 / €50 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £20 / $25 / €22 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 Malpais?
Follow these simple steps to secure your rental car in Malpais and ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison platforms to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle suitable for the terrain, such as a 4x4 for off-road adventures.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including mileage limits and insurance coverage.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better rates and vehicle availability by booking well in advance, especially during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, passport, and credit card when collecting the vehicle.
General Information About Malpais
Malpais is a serene destination ideal for relaxation and exploration. Renting a car allows you to fully enjoy the area's attractions, provided you're aware of the road conditions and local regulations.
As a small village, Malpais offers a tranquil escape from bustling city life. Known for its unspoiled beaches and laid-back atmosphere, it's a haven for surfers and nature lovers. While Malpais itself is easily navigable, a car is essential for exploring the surrounding areas, including Santa Teresa and the wider Nicoya Peninsula.
Top Attractions to Discover
Malpais Beach
Known for its surfing and stunning sunsets.
Santa Teresa Beach
A vibrant beach town with excellent surf and dining options.
Montezuma Waterfalls
A series of beautiful waterfalls accessible via a scenic hike.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Limited availability, mostly near popular beaches and restaurants.
On-Street Parking
Generally available, but be mindful of local regulations and signage.
Park & Ride
Not applicable in Malpais due to its small size.
Gas Stations in Malpais
Limited Availability
Gas stations are scarce, so refuel when you have the opportunity.
Main Fuel Brands
Look for local Costa Rican brands along the main roads.
Use Navigation Apps
Apps like Waze can help you locate the nearest gas station.
Useful Tips for Visiting Malpais
Drive Carefully
Roads can be rough, especially during the rainy season, so drive cautiously.
Respect Wildlife
Be mindful of local wildlife, including monkeys and birds.
Bring Cash
Some establishments may not accept credit cards, so carry some cash.
Allow Extra Travel Time
Road conditions can slow down travel, so allow extra time for your journeys.
Key Transportation Hubs in Malpais
Major Bus Stations
Santa Teresa Bus Stop
The main bus stop serving the area, connecting to other parts of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Airports
Tambor Airport (TMU)
A small domestic airport located approximately 30 minutes from Malpais.
What Do You Need to Hire a Car in Malpais?
Renting a car in Costa Rica is relatively straightforward, but you’ll need to meet certain requirements.
A valid driver's license from your home country is generally accepted for tourists.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
A credit card is typically required for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Malpais 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.
Malpais was perfect for my quick business trip. Getting around with a rental car was a breeze.
Sarah Chen
Reviewed: 18.01.2025
Heard such great things about Malpais, and they were right! Having a car made exploring so easy. Absolutely loved it.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 01.02.2025
Relaxing, low-key place.
Kevin Miller
Reviewed: 02.11.2024
Absolutely loved my weekend getaway to Malpais! Exploring with a car was so convenient.
David Lee
Reviewed: 13.07.2025
Exploring Malpais was amazing! So glad I rented a car; it made getting around so easy. Never been before, and I'll definitely return.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 19.05.2025
Low-key, pretty chill.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 30.10.2024
Perfect spontaneous trip! Malpais' beauty was easily accessible with a car.
Maria Garcia
Reviewed: 07.12.2024
Malpais exceeded expectations! Exploring independently was great, though the beaches were a bit crowded.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 12.10.2024
Peaceful, really mellow.
Anya Sharma
Reviewed: 15.10.2024
Stunning beaches, easy car rental; perfect weekend escape!
Ava Brown
Reviewed: 13.11.2024
Pretty laid-back, overall.
Ben Harper
Reviewed: 29.05.2025
Chill vibes, good roads.
Mike Johnson
Reviewed: 15.04.2025