Driving in Costa Rica is not for everybody. So make sure you recognize what you're entering into prior to getting behind the wheel of a car in Costa Rica. The complying with are the 7 most regularly asked inquiries concerning driving in Costa Rica. These inquiries can be found in from my prominent podcast concerning Costa Rica from people from the UNITED STATE, Canada, and also Europe.
1. What sort of automobiles are available for lease?
Renting out an automobile in Costa Rica is extra expensive than in the U.S. so the majority of people lease the smaller a lot more compact autos that are a little less expensive.
Prices differ and also throughout the high season you will pay even more. Around $20 or more each day. Renting throughout Christmas/New Years will certainly add another $50 or even more each week. I considered 5 automobile rental company cars in รถเช่าไม่ใช้บัตรเครดิต Costa Rica and the average for leasing a little vehicle like a Toyota Yaris will certainly set you back around $205 per week. Please note this does not include the needed by regulation insurance which will include a minimum of $10-20 each day. So you're taking a look at $250-300 to lease a tiny car weekly.
You will certainly locate all the major cars and truck rental companies in Costa Rica such as Hertz, Avis, Buck, Budget, and others.
2. Is driving an excellent suggestion?
It depends. Driving in Costa Rica compared to other nations can be an extremely frightening proposition for many. Costa Rica has one of the highest lorry crash rates worldwide. Traffic laws and also speed limits are often overlooked. Crazy and prohibited turns across lanes of web traffic prevail. Turn signals are seldom made use of and also dangerous death is common. So you could driving on your lane when all of a sudden below comes a car in your lane going the wrong way because they're passing on an unseen area. The roads remain in inadequate condition, and also big holes which can cause severe damages to your car prevails.
Although the roadway problems in the beach locations are worse the real driving isn't as scary because there is much less traffic and also because the roadways aren't the very best individuals tend to drive a little slower.
I like to have my very own transportation so renting a cars and truck is something I such as to do but it all depends on your convenience level. I've had loved ones that had never driven outside of the U.S. they found driving to be frightening however a fun experience. So just rest and also slow-moving and also you will certainly be great. Do not worry about the other motorists, simply do your point.
3. Do I require auto rental insurance?
By law you will need the INS (Instituto Nacional de Seguros) obligation insurance policy despite your very own automobile insurance policy protection or charge card insurance coverage. The insurance coverage required by law is referred to as TPL, SLI, SLC or API. The price ranges from $10-20 USD daily depending on the lorry. This insurance policy only covers damages to other people, automobiles, or property. You will certainly need to acquire additional insurance coverage to cover problems to the rental car or yourself. However your own auto insurance coverage or charge card might cover that so call your insurance coverage representative at home before leaving for Costa Rica and also ask him or her if your insurance coverage covers you for problems in Costa Rica. You might additionally want to call your charge card issuer and also ask the same inquiry. If your own plan covers you in Costa Rica you're set as well as you don't need the supplemental protection. If they do not cover you, after that I suggest getting a supplemental plan provided by auto rental companies.
Optional-CDW or LDW - collision damage waiver which covers the expense of the auto's deductible quantity which differs depending on the type of automobile as well as company. The price will certainly vary in between $10-20 USD daily.
Optional-Zero Obligation - This will certainly lower your liability to zero versus theft and also criminal damage, for instance, the expense for this insurance is in between $5-20 USD each day depending upon the company and auto.
As you can see the extra insurance cost can accumulate quickly so it is essential that you consult your insurance coverage representative as well as your charge card firm since you may not also need the optional/supplemental protection.
If your insurance coverage representative gives you the thumbs up do me a support as well as get it in writing! You do not desire any surprises.
4. What are vehicle rental needs in Costa Rica?
Requirements may differ relying on the vehicle firm you utilize so get in touch with them. Most need a valid motorist's license (one from your residence state or country is great), a valid key with your entrance stamp, the Costa Rica mandated obligation insurance, and also you need to go to the very least 21 years of age.
5. Is it secure to drive at night?
The trouble driving at evening is not crime, it's just the hazardous driving and also bad road conditions which are intensified even worse when you have inadequate presence. The roadways are not illuminated well and it gets pitch dark after 6:00 PM making it hazardous to drive for an inexperienced vehicle driver.
6. What are roadway conditions like?
The road problems are really inadequate compared to the incredibly freeways of the USA or the Autobahn in Germany. Drivers need to contend with harmful driving practices of drivers, massive splits, and even the highway is a two-lane roadway. The roads become worse during the wet season since road washouts from the landslides from the hills prevail.
7. What side of the roadway do they drive on in Costa Rica?
On the right hand side, like in the U.S. and Canada.
One last idea
Make a copy of the account page of your ticket and your entrance stamp and carry that with you together with your cars and truck rental papers. You could get stopped by cops and also you will certainly require to show this to them. Do no lug your passport with you just make copies. The Costa Rican government now allows you to carry copies instead of your real ticket.