I agree with roadadvisor. I would also suggest you take lots of pictures and check the radio, antenna, CD player, the windshield wipers work - with water, record the mileage if needed, lights work - check dimmer, visors, etc.

Wow lots to check

You can still fly to tambor and pick up your car there. I know that Budget has an office there. there are mixed reviews about Budget here, but I guess most if not all rental car companies have mixed reviews here!. I have never, in my personal experience, rented from them. Anyhow, they have an office in Tambor so you could fly from San Jose to Tambor and get that experience that you want and then pick up your car there, they will provide free shuttle from their airport to their nearby office. because its a logner rental (7 to 10 days) you should be able to return in another office without extra charge. One of the rental car companies usually advised not to deal with is Economy, but again, Ive never dealt with them personally. Good luck!

Rental costs vary greatly depending on the vehicle you want and the company you rent with - you should shop around for prices. As you said, you'll have to pay the mandatory insurance but check carefully that the company don't add on surcharges later in the reservation process. Charges such as 13% airport tax can add a significant amount onto your rental cost. Also see how much is being charged for GPS, additional driver cost, even roof racks for the car can be charged at as much as $5 daily. As it is low season, some companies have offers such as free GPS and there are companies who don't charge an additional rate for extras such as these, so look out for these to make significant savings.

Alamo and Budget have rental offices in Santa Teresa as well as Tambor.

www.alamocostarica.com

www.budget.co.cr

Thank you Wefish...as always you with great advice...gracias!

roadadvisor

Yes! will be sure to inspect the vehicle before leaving with it. Good tips on the various things to check... some I wouldn't have thought of..

@crpuravida

Both Nature Air and Sansa only have morning flights to Tambor, that I could find anyway. I'd rather fly into Tambor but I don't think I can because I arrive in SJO after they have left. I'll take your advice on Economy.

Thanks for the help. I'll start inquiring to the different rental companies with the information you have all given..