We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Cartago. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Hire in Cartago in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Cartago and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Cartago and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Cartago so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


location image

Why rent a car in Cartago?

Renting a car in Cartago, Costa Rica, offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the city's rich historical sites and the surrounding natural beauty at your own pace. With a personal vehicle, you can easily access attractions like the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels and the Santiago Apóstol Parish Ruins without relying on public transportation schedules.

Beyond the city limits, a rental car allows you to venture into the lush Orosi Valley, visit the Lankester Botanical Gardens, or drive up to the Irazú Volcano National Park. Having your own transportation ensures you can fully experience the diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks that the Cartago region has to offer.

Car rental tips for Cartago

  • Car rental agencies are available in Cartago, but for a wider selection, consider renting from agencies in San José and driving to Cartago, which is approximately a 45-minute drive.
  • Be prepared for varying road conditions; while main roads are generally well-maintained, some routes to natural attractions may be unpaved or have potholes.
  • Petrol stations are readily available in and around Cartago, but if you're planning trips to more remote areas, ensure your tank is full before departing.

FAQs about renting a car in Cartago

What is the recommended car type/category?

A compact or mid-sized car is recommended for navigating Cartago's city streets and nearby attractions. If planning to visit mountainous areas like Irazú Volcano, consider a vehicle with sufficient power to handle steep inclines.

What are the parking options?

Parking in Cartago is generally available, with public parking lots and street parking options. However, during peak tourist seasons or local festivals, parking spaces may be limited, so it's advisable to arrive early at popular sites.

What's the speed limit?

In Costa Rica, the general speed limits are 25 mph (40 km/h) in urban areas, 37 mph (60 km/h) on secondary roads, and 50 mph (80 km/h) on primary highways. Always adhere to posted signs, as limits can vary, especially in residential zones or near schools.

Popular attractions

  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels: A Roman Catholic basilica in Cartago, renowned for its unique blend of colonial and Byzantine architectural styles. It houses the revered statue of the Virgin of Our Lady of the Angels, the patron saint of Costa Rica.
  • Santiago Apóstol Parish Ruins: The remnants of a church that faced multiple earthquakes since the 16th century, now a cultural heritage site offering insight into Cartago's colonial past.
  • Lankester Botanical Gardens: A botanical garden established in 1973, renowned for its extensive collection of orchids and tropical plants, serving as both a research centre and public space for education and enjoyment.
  • Irazú Volcano National Park: Home to Costa Rica's highest volcano, offering visitors the chance to witness a lunar-like landscape and a stunning emerald-green crater lake.
  • Guayabo National Monument: An archaeological site near Turrialba, featuring ancient stone structures and petroglyphs, providing a glimpse into Costa Rica's pre-Columbian history.

More places to visit

  • Orosi Valley: A picturesque valley known for its colonial church, hot springs, and coffee plantations, showcasing traditional Costa Rican practices.
  • Cachi Dam and Reservoir: A tranquil spot surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
  • Turrialba Volcano Lookout: Provides panoramic views of the Turrialba Volcano's crater and the surrounding landscapes, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Hire Brands in Cartago

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

National Car Hire

View more

Alamo Car Hire

View more

SIXT Car Hire

View more

Enterprise Car Hire

View more

Budget Car Hire

View more

Hertz Car Hire

View more

Europcar Car Hire

View more

Keddy Car Hire

View more

Thrifty Car Hire

View more

AVIS Car Hire

View more

Firefly Car Hire

View more

: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

Car image for small and economy car category

Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

Car image for hybrid and electric car category

Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

Car image for prestige car category

Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

Car image for stationwagon and minibus car category


Cartago: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.