Car hire in Sámara, Costa Rica

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Find cheap car hire in Sámara

Suzuki Swift

or similar economy

Alamo
41ManualAC
Suzuki Swift

Unlimited mileage

From
R 656
per day
These are the lowest Sámara car hire prices we found over the next 30 days and are subject to change.

When's the cheapest time to hire a car in Sámara?

Our data shows that December is the cheapest month to rent a car in Sámara. It’s around R 929 per day in December, compared to the yearly average of R 1,699 per day.
Cheapest month avgDecember • R 929
Yearly avg priceR 1,699

Select your Sámara pick-up location

There are 6 car hire providers in Sámara. Check out the map below to find the most convenient pick-up spot.

Car hire pick-up spots in Sámara

Compare car hire prices at airports, train stations and in different neighbourhoods across Sámara. You might find a better price, or the perfect pick-up point nearby. Start your journey where it suits you.
Filter locations
These are estimated prices to help you choose from a large number of options. Each is an average based on the lowest car rental prices found for each destination over the last 15 days.

The most popular car rental companies in Sámara

Economy
Hertz
National
Enterprise
Alamo

What's the most popular car to hire in Sámara?

Based on recent Skyscanner data, the Suzuki S-Cross is the most popular car to hire in Sámara, with prices starting from R 656 per day. The Jeep Wrangler and similar models are also popular drives in Sámara.
Suzuki S-Cross
Suzuki S-Cross29% chose this
Jeep Wrangler
Jeep Wrangler15% chose this
Suzuki Swift
Suzuki Swift15% chose this
Toyota RAV4
Toyota RAV415% chose this
Most popular carSuzuki S-Cross
Why?Comfortable, practical, good value

Sámara's cheapest car hire providers

Alamo has the cheapest car hire in Sámara right now, with prices from R 656 per day. You'll save an average of per day when you book with them.
Alamofrom R 656 per day
Cheapest providerAlamo

Hiring a car in Sámara: Fast facts

Here's everything you need to know to hit the road happy.
Most popular car hire companyEconomy
Most popular carSmall, economy
Average daily priceR 867
Best time to book3 weeks before

How to book the best car rental deals in Sámara

We’re frequently named as the most trusted travel search site out there. We scan hundreds of trusted travel providers and put it all in one place, allowing you to instantly compare car hire rates and then book with no fees. Here's how to get the most out of your Sámara car rental search.

How to find a cheap car hire deal in Sámara

  • Whether you need a compact for scooting around the city or a bigger ride for longer drives, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Sámara. Choose from options averaging R 867 a day and go where you want for less.

  • R 656 is the cheapest daily price offered for a rental in Sámara.

  • For longer trips, grab a weekly rental from R 4,591 and make room for more adventures.

  • Book early to snag the best price for a Sámara car hire. Beyond just getting a great rate, you'll have a wider range of options to pick from.

  • Check out what's available with Alamo and Hertz. They rank among the city's most trusted providers.

  • Whether you choose Alamo or another supplier, double-check the coverage on your Sámara car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid add-on.

  • Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to pick up a bargain if the provider needs to shift vehicles between branches. Discover the best available rates by clicking 'Return car to a different location.'

  • Skip the hidden fees by booking a ride with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, and only pay for what you actually use.

  • Travel without limits by choosing a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can go as far as you like with no extra cost.

Best value car hire options right now

  • You'll find the best deal with this company. Prices average R 692 a day.

  • Not far behind, [this provider](this provider](https://www.skyscanner.co.za/car-hire/car-hire-with-provider/alamo/650)) offers daily rates of around R 1,220.

  • The third option won't break the bank either. You'll pay roughly R 1,119 a day with this supplier.

  • After a car that works for most trips? The Small rental category is the go-to choice for travellers visiting Sámara.

Compare car hire types in Sámara

  • Small: Whether you're weaving through city traffic or taking a quick trip, this car category delivers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can look forward to excellent fuel efficiency and easy handling.

  • Medium: Not too big, not too small, it's the definition of just right. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of interior space and fuel efficiency and are popular with small families and couples.

  • Large: Long drives fly by in this Sámara car hire category. Also known as full-size, they've got the engine power for lengthy trips. The extra legroom and comfort make them a great option for families and groups of friends.

  • SUV: When adventure calls, an SUV says, 'let's go.' It's your perfect road trip companion, ready for highways, country roads, and anything in between. These sports utility vehicles also promise extra space and advanced safety features.

  • Van: If you're searching for a car for rent in Sámara that fits a small crowd (and all their stuff), a van will do the job. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're just the thing for group excursions, moving or business needs.

Insurance and optional extras

  • Choosing excess insurance for your Sámara car hire lets you drive with confidence. It protects you from paying a big excess fee in case of damage or theft. Insurance policies can vary from one provider to another, so give them a quick comparison.

  • From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, the right extras can totally transform your drive. Consider which features will help you make the most of your trip when you rent a car in Sámara.

Good to know

  • Check each provider's age requirements before booking your rental in Costa Rica. Rules can differ, and added costs or restrictions may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to browse your options.

  • If you've got the kids in tow, check if you need to add a child car seat to your Sámara car rental reservation. Whether required by local laws or not, they're always the safest way for youngsters to travel.

  • You'll have to provide some documents when you pick up your ride. As a general rule, bring your physical driver's licence, a credit card with room for the security deposit (most companies don't accept debit cards), and another form of photo ID. Your booking will lay out the exact list.

  • Take your time getting acquainted with your rental. Set up your seat and mirrors, find the lights and wipers, and get comfortable with its handling before you set off. And remember to stay on the right side of the road in Costa Rica.

  • Local speed limits can vary, but it's typically around 45kph in built-up areas and 95kph or so on highways. Always go with what's posted on the road signs.

  • In Costa Rica, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05%. If you think you'll be drinking, pass the keys to someone else or choose another way to travel.

  • One of the busiest times for traffic in this destination is around 8am. Get where you're going faster by avoiding rush hours in general.

Best hotels in Sámara for drivers

  • Spend less time looking for a place to park and more time enjoying your stay at Lodge Las Estrellas de Samara - Ocean View. About 5 kilometres from central Sámara, it comes with accessible parking, internet access and air conditioning.

  • Hotel El Pequeño Gecko Verde is another practical pick for a trip that's big on driving. It features parking, plus a bar and express check-in. Make this your base and you'll be roughly 2 kilometres from the city centre.

  • Browse the full range of hotels in Sámara for even more choice. Use the 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' and 'Outdoor parking' filters to tailor your results to your trip. You can even use the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to include places with charging facilities.

  • After you've found a car hire deal in Sámara and the right hotel, it's time to plan your adventures. Sunset Beach Buena Vista, Playa Sámara and Playa rosada are classics for any first-time visitor.

Hit the road: Where to drive to from Sámara

  • Liberia should be on your itinerary if you'd like to visit Museo de Guanacaste and Mirador de Liberia. This city is around 80 kilometres north of central Sámara.

  • They've perfected the guest experience at Best Western El Sitio Hotel and Hotel La Guaria, two reliable accommodation options with parking in Liberia.

  • Alternatively, collect your cheap car hire in Sámara and travel around 80 kilometres east to Puntarenas. Featuring Isla Damas and Muelle de Puntarenas, its highlights live up to the hype.

  • Relax after a day out and about in Puntarenas at Hotel Cayuga or Hotel Puntarenas Beach. These hotels cater to guests with cars.

  • Get some shut-eye in San Francisco at either DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cariari San Jose - Costa Rica or Irazú Hotel & Studios. They have a room waiting for you and parking availability too.

Frequently asked questions

The average car hire cost in Sámara is R 867 per day or R 6,066 for a seven-day rental. If you're looking for a cheap deal, the lowest price we found is R 656 per day for Small hire from Hertz. Need a specific type of car? Here's how prices compare:
  • Economy
    • Average price: R 867 per day.
    • Cheapest price found: R 656 per day.
  • SUV
    • Average price: R 1,052 per day.
    • Cheapest price found: R 836 per day.
  • Premium/Luxury
    • Average price: R 1,522 per day.
    • Cheapest price found: R 1,406 per day.
The cheapest car to rent in Sámara is Small, economy. The most popular is Small, economy.
The cheapest car hire company in Sámara is currently Hertz, followed by Alamo.
Bagging the best car hire deal depends on when you book  – often, it pays to book your wheels as far in advance as possible. But according to our data, the cheapest month to rent a car in Sámara is currently February.
On average, around R 6,066. But the best price we found for car hire for a week in Sámara is R 4,591.
Based on everything we know about daily prices, the average cost to hire a car in Sámara for a whole month is R 53,642. 

But sometimes, you'll get a discount for booking a whole month instead of 3 and a half weeks. So play with your dates to find the best deals!
If you're looking for freedom to explore Sámara, choose a car with unlimited mileage, or look for car hire deals with a ’full to full' fuel policy as opposed to a 'half-full to full' one.

We also clearly highlight car and van hire options in Sámara that have free cancellation. 
If you've booked car hire with free cancellation, you can usually cancel or change your booking without paying a fee. The deadline depends on the car hire company, but it's typically around 48 hours before pick-up. If you cancel after that, you may be charged.

If your booking doesn't include free cancellation, you'll need to check the car hire company's cancellation policy. Depending on when you cancel, you might have to pay a fee or you won't get a refund.
Yes. Most car hire companies in Sámara offer same-day car hire. If you're looking for last-minute car hire in Sámara, search for today's date on Skyscanner to compare what's available.
The best time to book car hire in Sámara is usually as early as you can. Booking ahead often means cheaper prices and more cars to choose from. You can sometimes find a good last-minute deal, but it's never guaranteed and availability is often more limited.