Renting a car in Costa Rica

Private car rental vs. a typical rental counter in Costa Rica

We're not a big agency with a counter and a line. We're Lili and Alex, and every car we rent, we deliver ourselves. Here's what that actually changes, step by step.

Step
Pura Life
Typical rental counter
Getting your price
One quoted price, insurance included. What we tell you is what you pay.
Mandatory insurance is often left out of the online quote and added at the counter, sometimes nearly doubling the price.
Picking up the car
Delivered to you: your home, hotel, the Liberia airport, or another spot you need.
Check in at a counter, sometimes with a shuttle ride to an off-site lot first.
Waiting
No line. You land, and the car is ready.
A line at the counter, sometimes up to an hour after a long flight.
Insurance
Included in the one price. Nothing extra at pickup.
Often a mandatory add-on disclosed only once you're at the counter.
Upsells
None. One price is one price.
Pressure to upgrade the car, add coverage tiers, or add GPS at the desk.
Who you deal with
Us, directly. Lili and Alex speak English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese.
Whoever is on the desk that day.
Deposit
$500 depositFar less than a typical counter hold
Typically a $1,000 to $2,500 hold on your credit card, sometimes more.
Your own car in the shop
We deliver a car to you while yours is repaired.
Usually needs an insurer or dealer replacement-car benefit, capped at 5 to 10 days, and a repair order.

Not just for visitors

You're hosting visitors

We'll deliver an extra car right to your door.

You're taking a road trip

Rent a reliable car without setting foot at a counter.

Every Pura Life rental has a 7-day minimum, for visitors and locals alike. If you only need a car for a few days, this may not be the right fit for you, but message us on WhatsApp and we'll tell you honestly either way.

Questions people ask us

Is the price I see online the final price?

Yes. The price we quote is the price you pay, including insurance. No surprise fees when you pick up the keys.

Is insurance really included, or is there an add-on at pickup?

Insurance is included in the one price we quote you. Nothing extra at pickup.

Do I have to go to a counter or wait in line?

No. We bring the car to you: your home, hotel, the Liberia airport, or wherever you need it. No lines.

Do you deliver to San José (SJO), or only Liberia (LIR)?

We serve the Liberia (LIR) airport only. We do not currently serve San José.

Can you bring a car if mine is in the shop?

Yes. We can bring a car to you while yours is being repaired. The same 7-day minimum applies as any other booking.

What languages does your team speak?

English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. You're dealing directly with us, not a rotating desk staff.

What's the minimum number of rental days?

7 days, for every booking.

Is there a deposit?

Yes, $500.

Do I need a credit card to rent from Pura Life?

No. A credit card is not required to rent from us.

Book your car