🚗 Rental Car or Transfer – What’s Better for Your Costa Rica Trip?

🚗 Rental Car or Transfer – What’s Better for Your Costa Rica Trip?

One of the first questions travelers ask us is:
“Should I rent a car or book private transfers?”

The answer really depends on your route, your vibe, and how confident you feel on Costa Rican roads. So let’s break it down—so you can choose the best option for your kind of adventure.


🚐 When a Private Transfer Makes More Sense

Booking a private transfer with a local driver is often the best choice if:

  • 🛬 You’re just arriving from a long international flight and want to relax

  • đŸ—ș You’re doing a set itinerary (like La Fortuna → Manuel Antonio → Guanacaste)

  • 💬 You’d like a bilingual guide to give tips along the way

  • đŸ‘šđŸ‘©đŸ‘§ You’re traveling with kids, seniors, or a larger group

  • ☔ You’re coming during green season and want to avoid rain + rough roads

  • đŸč You just don’t want to drive on vacation!

✅ What’s included with Green Tours CR transfers:

  • Safe, comfortable air-conditioned vans

  • Door-to-door pickup/drop-off

  • Local, bilingual drivers

  • No navigating, no stress—just enjoy the views


🚗 When Renting a Car Is a Great Idea

Having your own rental car gives you the ultimate freedom to explore:

  • đŸïž You love to stop at beaches, sodas, waterfalls on a whim

  • 🧭 You want to go off the beaten path (Bijagua, Nicoya, etc.)

  • ⏱ You’re doing multiple short drives within a region

  • 💾 You want to save on long transfer costs (great for 2–3 people)

  • 🚙 You’re comfortable driving curvy, sometimes bumpy roads

✅ Our rental cars at Green Tours CR include:

  • Full insurance coverage (no hidden fees)

  • Only $100 deposit

  • Flexible pickup/drop-off in Guanacaste or San JosĂ©

  • Local support if you need help anytime


đŸ€” So
 What’s Better?

Here’s a quick guide:

If you... Go with...
Want to relax and enjoy the ride 🚐 Private transfer
Are confident driving abroad 🚗 Rental car
Have multiple hotel stops 🚐 or combo option
Are staying in 1-2 places only 🚐 Transfer
Want to explore freely 🚗 Rental car
Have a big group or lots of luggage 🚐 Transfer

🔁 You Can Always Do Both

Many travelers use transfers to get across the country (like airport → La Fortuna), then rent a car locally for a few days of exploring. We can help with both—and even combine them into one smooth plan.


🌿 Final Tip from the Green Tours Team

If you’re unsure, just message us. Tell us your route and group size, and we’ll help you figure out the most comfortable, affordable, and enjoyable option. No pressure—just real advice from locals who care.

Retour au blog