Renting a car gives you the most freedom in terms of going wherever you want whenever you want. However, do keep in mind that the bus system in Costa Rica is very extensive and provides reliable and convenient service to a number of locations throughout the country.

Car Rental

A number of car rental agencies, including National, Enterprise, and Dollar, have service desks at the airport. Budget is near the airport.  If you are heading straight from the airport out to your destination, and not stopping in San Jose, getting a car at the airport is your best option. Otherwise. you can pick one up at one of the downtown car rental agencies. This option lets you have one less headache in terms of finding places to park and having to drive through the often congested streets of San Jose. Be careful, Budget charges a deposit of 750.00 USD, which they will release within 72 hours of returning the car.

Taxis

Your best bet is to ensure that the cab you get into has a meter. There are a number of non-sanctioned cabs that provide service throughout the city with cheaper rates, but why take your chances? Traveling from one location to another in the city should only take a few dollars. When going to a certain location, it's best if you know what other landmarks are in the area, specific addresses are sometimes not enough to get you where you want to go.