Think about this before Renting a Car in Costa Rica
We always get asked if renting a car is the right thing to do in Costa Rica? Will the car get broken into? Are the roads safe? Will there be places to park? How bad is traffic?
The one reason I tell people they shouldn’t rent a car has nothing to do with the questions above. In short, roads can get a little sketchy, it probably won’t get broken into but don’t leave your camera on the seat, and traffic is worse than you can imagine in San Jose. If you are ok with these reasons you shouldn’t have a problem.
Why do you really want to Rent a Car?
Many feel comfortable renting a car, and many more do it because their adventure-ego goes into overdrive, and they don’t need any help in a foreign country.
People often think they get more out of renting a car because they can “explore” on their own, but how much value does that have compared to exploring with a drive and guide.
There might be benefits to renting a car, but this article is simply on what you miss when not going with a driver and/or guide.
Did you think about what you would miss?
I have said multiple times that our adventure company is a link between meeting amazing people and mixing it with beautiful scenery and some adventure. I truly believe that hanging out with the locals in Costa Rica makes this country what it is. The places and adventures are just a bonus.
When you rent your own car, you might have micro encounters with the locals but nothing like immediately having a backstage pass to all stops and places you visit along the way.
Traveling with a local guide and driver on your family adventure with the right company is like treating your kids to the ultimate Funcle anyone could ask for.
Value of a “Good” Driver & Guide
Drivers and guides make stops along the way feel more like walking into the bar Cheers, where you are treated like family. You get to experience the authentic Costa Rican your entire trip, and believe me when I say it will be the highlight of your trip.
I also want to be clear that there are drivers and guides that don’t have the same passion for their work as others. It is important to choose the right company but you probably have a good chance of picking some good ones in Costa Rica.
Many will have to rent cars for whatever reason, and some might argue it for financial reasons, but the value of putting a small group together for an adventure trip allows you to break up the cost and the value you end up getting is night and day to driving around Costa Rica in your private bubble.
Get the VIP adventure pass when visiting Costa Rica by traveling with the POC! Your experts in Costa Rica Adventure trips.
