Are you planning to travel to Costa Rica and looking for the best tourist eSIM to stay connected? This is a complete guide with everything you need to know about using an eSIM when traveling to Costa Rica including a comparison of the best Costa Rica tourist eSIMs in 2024.
Don't waste money on high roaming charges, read my recommendations below before ordering an eSIM for Costa Rica. Find up to date prices and info as per October 2024, including all eSIM specifications.
This guide will explain how eSIMs work, show you where and when to order an eSIM for Costa Rica, answer all FAQ about using eSIMs, more info about the best network coverage in Costa Rica, the fastest 4G/5G data speed, explain the difference between eSIMs and local prepaid sim cards and of course links to directly order your eSIM for traveling to Costa Rica on the internet.
Since 2012 I am traveling the world full time and turned my passion for traveling into a lifestyle and became a full time nomadic travel blogger. In 2022 I visited 62 different countries and in 2023 I traveled to 34 countries so imagine how many different prepaid and eSIMs I used throughout the last two years.
In the past I used to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival in every country, but nowadays I mostly use eSIMs to stay connected when traveling abroad.
Traveltomtom also wrote a complete guide on how to buy a prepaid sim card in Costa Rica.
Find more than 200 sim card guides on Traveltomtom from all around the world: Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, USA, Canada, Europe, Spain, Bali, French Polynesia and many more.
So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid sim card and eSIM advice for your holiday destination. Bookmark me and let me help you save money while traveling!
Some links in this article about the best eSIMs for Costa Rica are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don't worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!
My recommendation
Let me start with giving you my eSIM recommendation. This is my favorite eSIMs for traveling to Costa Rica in 2024.
1. Airalo eSIM for Costa Rica - $38.50
- 10 GB data
- 100 minutes
- 100 sms
- valid in Costa Rica
- valid for 30 days
- Operates on the 4G/LTE network of Liberty
- $3.85 USD per Gigabyte
Airalo is the only eSIM provider that offers eSIMs for Costa Rica including calling and texting. Airalo also has data-only eSIMs available. In total Airalo has 12 different eSIM plans for traveling to Costa Rica.
Get $3 USD off your first Airalo eSIM with the discount code: TOMTOM3
2. Jetpac eSIM for Costa Rica - $19 USD
- 5 GB data-only
- valid in Costa Rica
- No calls/sms
- valid for 30 days
- Operates on the 4G/LTE network of Claro
- $3.8 USD per Gigabyte
Jetpac has 5 different eSIM plans for Costa Rica, but their 5 GB data plan is their best-buy as it has the lowest rate per Gigabyte of only $3.8 USD. When it comes to the 5 GB plan Jetpac is cheaper than Nomad, Sim Options, Sim Local, Airalo and all other eSIM providers.
Traveltomtom readers get an extra 10% off all Jetpac eSIMs when using the promo code: TOMTOM10 at check out.
A quick Costa Rica eSIM comparison
- Airalo Costa Rica 10 GB = $35 USD (Liberty network)
- Jetpac Costa Rica 10 GB = $40 USD (Claro network)
- Nomad Costa Rica 10 GB = $45 USD (Liberty network)
- Sim Local Costa Rica 5 GB = $26.5 USD (Claro network)
- SimOptions Costa Rica 5 GB* = $30.90 USD (network not specified)
*Sim Local and SimOptions do not offer a Costa Rica eSIM with a 10 GB data plan.
Holafly only offers eSIMs with unlimited data per day. For a 10 days unlimited data eSIM Holafly charges $39.90 USD.
Is Costa Rica one of your stops on a trip around the world then you can also look into getting an international eSIM for traveling the world or an eSIM from Roamless, a different eSIM concept that allows you to use the available data in any country that is supported and has no expiry date.
There are 2 very important things to check before ordering an eSIM for Costa Rica, see the following.
Unlocked phones only
Make sure your phone is unlocked. eSIMs only work in unlocked phones. If you are not sure if your phone is unlocked then contact your mobile internet provider in your home country.
In general phones from Europe, Asia and the Middle East tend to be unlocked. Phones from North America are often locked.
If your smartphone is locked that means it does not allow another prepaid sim card or eSIM to operate in the device. You can easily unlock your phone, but depending on your mobile internet provider you will be charged a fee for unlocking your phone.
eSIM compatible phones only
Second, and equally important: eSIMs only work if your smartphone supports eSIMs, also called eSIM compatible. All newer smartphones support eSIMs. If you are not sure if your phone is eSIM compatible then simply go to Google and type in your mobile phone model in the search bar and ask if it is eSIM compatible. You will get the answer instantly.
If your phone is NOT eSIM compatible then there is no other solution and you can NOT use an eSIM for traveling to Costa Rica.
In that case check out Traveltomtom's complete guide on how to buy a prepaid sim card in Costa Rica.
Comparison of the best eSIMs for Costa Rica
On arrival in Costa Rica you can now also buy an eSIM in an official phone store from one of the mobile internet providers: Liberty, Kolbi or Claro. The Traveltomtom Team experienced that not all stores have eSIMs for tourists, so it was a 50/50.
If you want to arrive prepared and have data on your phone as soon as the plane lands it is much more convenient to order an eSIM for Costa Rica on the internet.
There are multiple eSIM Providers on the internet that sell eSIMs for Costa Rica. Traveltomtom recommends ordering an eSIM for traveling in Costa Rica from one of the well-known eSIM providers that have proven to be reliable operators: SimOptions, Jetpac, Nomad, Holafly, Roamless, Airalo, Sim Local, etc.
But before you buy an eSIM for Costa Rica first read all my tips below.
SimOptions also offers international prepaid sim cards for Costa Rica. These are pre-activated physical prepaid sim cards and will be delivered to your home address before your trip to Costa Rica and it is plug and play when you arrive.
Airalo, Holafly, Sim Local, Roamless, Jetpac and Nomad only sell eSIMs for Costa Rica.
Airalo
Airalo is a very reputed eSIM provider, in fact the first eSIM provider and market leader. Airalo is very much recommended by Traveltomtom and ordering your eSIM for Costa Rica via Airalo is done fast and easy.
Why using Airalo?
Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times for staying connected when traveling abroad. Never an issue and often some of the best eSIM deals.
Airalo has 12 different eSIM plans for Costa Rica divided in 6 data-only plans and 6 plans including data, calls and sms.
Data-only plans
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $9.5 USD
- 2 GB data for 15 days = $15 USD
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $20 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $30 USD
- 10 GB data for 30 days = $35 USD
- 20 GB data for 30 days = $45 USD
Data/Calls/SMS
- 1 GB data + 10 minutes + 10 sms for 7 days = $12 USD
- 2 GB data + 20 minutes + 20 sms for 15 days = $17.5 USD
- 3 GB data + 30 minutes + 30 sms for 30 days = $22.5 USD
- 5 GB data + 50 minutes + 50 sms for 30 days = $32.5 USD
- 10 GB data + 100 minutes + 100 sms for 30 days = $38.5 USD
- 20 GB data + 200 minutes + 200 sms for 30 days = $46.5 USD
Click here for more info or to order a Costa Rica eSIM via Airalo.
Get an extra discount of $3 USD on your first Airalo eSIM with the code: TOMTOM3.
These data-only eSIMs are from Hot Telecom+ and operate on the Movistar 4G/LTE network. Data-only means that incoming or outgoing calls/sms are not supported and the Hartonet eSIMs from Airalo do not come with a phone number.
An Airalo eSIM has to be activated within 90 days after purchase and after activation the credit validity starts when it connects the first time to a supported network, basically on arrival in Costa Rica. For more info check out the Airalo website.
Jetpac
Jetpac quickly made name in the eSIM world by not only offering very affordable eSIM solutions, but also by adding a couple benefits for travelers who order an eSIM via Jetpac.
The Traveltomtom team has tried Jetpac now in a couple different countries without any issues, only positive reviews. Check out our extensive Jetpac eSIM review with all pros and cons.
One of the main reasons why Jetpac is listed as one of the best eSIMs for Costa Rica are their competitive prices and in fact when we look at the price per Gigabyte, Jetpac is one of the best eSIMs for Costa Rica in 2024.
Check out the Jetpac eSIM plans for Costa Rica in 2024:
- 1 GB data for 4 days = $4 USD
- 3 GB data for 7 days = $12 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $19 USD
- 10 GB data for 30 days = $40 USD
- 20 GB data for 30 days = $60 USD
Click here to order a Jetpac eSIM for Costa Rica.
Traveltomtom readers now get an extra 10% off on all Jetpac eSIMs when using the promo code: TOMTOM10 at check out!
The Jetpac eSIM plan for Costa Rica with 5 GB data for just $19 USD makes it the best value 5 GB eSIM for Costa Rica. The same 5 GB packs cost much more at other eSIM providers.
You can instal your Jetpac eSIM before your trip to Costa Rica, but it only activates from the moment it connects to a supported network in Costa Rica. That moment your days also start counting. The Jetpac eSIMs have to be installed within 1 year.
The Jetpac Costa Rica eSIMs are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported. Jetpac eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE network of Claro.
An extra advantage of using a Jetpac eSIM is that you get a free VPN subscription, 50% discount on airport lounges and Fast Track passes. And Jetpac also provides free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed. However, you will have to register your flight before you travel to Costa Rica and in case of a delayed or canceled flight a LoungeKey voucher will automatically be provided.
These are all complimentary services that no other eSIM provider offers. For more info check the Jetpac website.
Sim Local
Sim Local is another trusted eSIM provider and Traveltomtom has been recommending Sim Local for several different countries. Sim Local is no-nonsense, straight forward and easy to use. For more details check out Traveltomtom's extensive review of Sim Local.
Sim Local offers 6 different eSIM plans for Costa Rica: 3 eSIMs plans from Smartroam, 1 eSIM from Orange and 2 Flexiroam eSIMs for Latin America.
Smartroam eSIMs
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $7.5 USD
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $19 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $26.50 USD
The Smartroam eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE network in Claro in Costa Rica. Data is only valid in Costa Rica.
Flexiroam eSIMs Latin America
- 5 GB data for 30 days in 13 countries in Latin America = $31.5 USD
- 10 GB data for 30 days in 13 countries in Latin America = $60.5 USD
The Flexiroam eSIMs are valid in: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela.
Orange Holiday World eSIM
- NOT 10 but 5 GB data for 30 days = $32 USD
Be aware that Sim Local wrongly advertises the Orange Holiday World eSIM as if you would get 10 GB data in Costa Rica, but if you read the fine print you will find out it is actually only 5 GB data! So therefore this eSIM is automatically not recommended.
All Costa Rica eSIMs from Sim Local are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are not supported and these eSIMs do not come with a phone number.
Click here for more info or to order an eSIM for Costa Rica via Sim Local.
Traveltomtom readers now get an extra 15% discount on all Sim Local eSIMs when using the promo code: TRAVELTOMTOM at check out!
SimOptions
SimOptions is a very reliable eSIM provider and Traveltomtom has used SimOptions uncountable times in more than 50 countries around the world. I can totally recommend using SimOptions for ordering an eSIM.
Why using SimOptions?
SimOptions has proven over the years to be very reliable. Excellent costumer service, great eSIM deals, eSIMs for pretty much every country in the world and an innovative product. Traveltomtom never faced an issue with SimOptions eSIMs.
Check out Traveltomtom's detailed and honest SimOptions eSIM review.
SimOptions has Costa Rica eSIMs, Global eSIMs for Costa Rica as well as South America eSIMs.
SimOptions eSIMs valid in Costa Rica only:
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $7.90 USD
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $21.90 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $30.90 USD
Three HK 30-day pass Global valid in 93 countries:
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $34.90 USD
eSIM2FLY Global valid in 141 countries:
- 6 GB data for 15 days = $39.90 USD
eSIM for South America:
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $11.40 USD
This South America eSIM is valid in 15 countries: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela.
Click here for more info or to order an eSIMs for traveling in Costa Rica via SimOptions.
SimOptions does not specify which mobile data network they use in Costa Rica.
All SimOptions eSIMs do not come with a phone number and they do not offer incoming/outgoing calls or sms services. The validity of these eSIMs is 1 year and the credit validity starts in general only on arrival in any of the supported countries. But some eSIMs from SimOptions have different policies, so always be aware of this when installing your SimOptions eSIM.
For more info check the SimOptions website.
Holafly
Personally Traveltomtom is not a fan of eSIMs with unlimited data. Unlimited is only unlimited if there is NO so called FUP (Fair Use Policy). Holafly is an eSIM provider that only sells eSIMs with unlimited data, but uses an FUP. Unfortunately they do not specify what is their FUP.
Especially when traveling in Costa Rica on a long and tiring bus ride, you don't want anyone to tell you that you have used too much data on your 'unlimited' data eSIM.
But that is just my personal advice.
- 1 day 'unlimited' data = $7.90 USD
- 2 days 'unlimited' data = $14.90 USD
- 3 days 'unlimited' data = $20.90 USD
- 4 days 'unlimited' data = $25.90 USD
- 5 days 'unlimited' data = $28.90 USD
- 6 days 'unlimited' data = $32.90 USD
- 7 days 'unlimited' data = $36.90 USD
- 8 days 'unlimited' data = $37.90 USD
- 9 days 'unlimited' data = $38.90 USD
- 10 days 'unlimited' data = $39.90 USD
- 11 days 'unlimited' data = $41.90 USD
- 14 days 'unlimited' data = $48.90 USD
- 20 days 'unlimited' data = $61.90 USD
- 30 days 'unlimited' data = $93.90 USD
The Holafly eSIMs for Costa Rica are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are NOT supported. These eSIMs do not come with a phone number. The Holafly eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE network of Liberty.
You can use a hotspot on the Holafly Costa Rica eSIMs, but it is capped at 500 MB per day.
Because of the FUP Traveltomtom is not a fan of eSIMs with 'unlimited' data and therefore it is not my first recommendation when looking for an eSIM for Costa Rica.
Also prices for eSIMs are more on the expensive side and so a Holafly eSIM for Costa Rica is not Traveltomtom's first recommendation.
Nomad
Nomad is quickly trying to gain some market share in the eSIM business by constantly adding new eSIM deals. Traveltomtom has had some mixed experiences with Nomad eSIMs.
Here are the Nomad eSIM plans for Costa Rica:
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $9 USD
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $20 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $28 USD
- 10 GB data for 30 days = $45 USD
Click here to order an eSIM for Costa Rica from Nomad.
The prices for Nomad Costa Rica eSIMs are not something that will get you super excited of course. Other eSIM providers have much better eSIM deals for Costa Rica than Nomad.
All the Nomad eSIM plans for Costa Rica are from eSIM Go and they operate on the Liberty 4G/LTE network in Costa Rica. The Nomad eSIMs are not 5G ready. These eSIM Go plans are data-only sim cards. Incoming and outgoing calls are not supported.
The Nomad Costa Rica eSIMs have to be installed/activated on your phone within 30 days after purchase otherwise they are automatically activated. After installing, the eSIMs starts its validity from the first moment when it connects to a supported network, basically the moment the plane lands in Costa Rica. For more info check the Nomad website.
Then there are also the local prepaid sim cards from the mobile internet providers in Costa Rica: Liberty, Kolbi and Claro. They now also offer eSIMs for tourists, but you can only buy them in an official phone store and you will need to bring your passport for registration.
Kolbi
- 2 GB data + 35 minutes + 30 sms + 3 GB for WhatsApp = 5,000 CRC - $10 USD
- 4 GB data + 50 minutes + 30 sms + 3 GB for WhatsApp = 8,000 CRC - $15 USD
- 5 GB data + 100 minutes + 30 sms + 5 GB for WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram = 12,000 CRC - $23 USD
Liberty
- 1 GB data for 24 hours = 700 CRC - $1.4 USD
- 1.2 GB data + 20 minutes for 7 days = 1,250 CRC - $2.4 USD
- 1 GB data + 15 minutes for 6 days = 2,000 CRC - $3.9 USD
Claro
- 1 GB data + free social media* + 20 international minutes** + 50 sms - valid for 7 days = 2,000 CRC - $4 USD
- 2 GB data + free social media* + 30 international minutes** + 100 sms - valid for 10 days = 3,000 CRC - $6 USD
- 3 GB data + free social media* + 45 international minutes** + 200 sms - valid for 15 days = 4,500 CRC - $9 USD
- 4 GB data + free social media* + 70 international minutes** + 200 sms - valid for 15 days = 6,000 CRC - $12 USD
- 5 GB data + free social media* + 85 international minutes** + 300 sms - valid for 30 days = 10,000 CRC - $19 USD
*Free social media means: Whatsapp, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest.
**International minutes: all of Central America, Panama, USA and Canada.
What is the cheapest eSIM for Costa Rica?
Apart from the local eSIMs from Kolbi, Liberty and Claro there is no other eSIM provider can beat the $4 USD eSIM for Costa Rica from Jetpac. You get 1 GB data for 4 days.
Sim Local is a good second best with an eSIM plan for Costa Rica for just $7.5 USD for 1 GB data for 7 days.
Why ordering an eSIM for traveling to Costa Rica
eSIMs are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Costa Rica in 2024 and you can arrange everything online in just a couple clicks. No more visiting a sim card shop and swapping physical sim cards. Order online, scan the QR code, follow the steps and you are connected in less than 2 minutes.
The most important reason to get an eSIM is because we would like to stay connected on our trip to Costa Rica without wasting money on high roaming costs. Our smartphones are pretty useless without a working data connection. Think about ordering a taxi through an app, finding nearby friends, restaurants and bars. Get directions from Google Maps or simply staying in touch with family back home, check your social media apps on long bus rides or your banking apps when paying contactless.
One of the best things about arriving in Costa Rica with an activated eSIM is that you are online as soon as the plane lands and you don't have to buy a prepaid sim card at San Jose Airport in Costa Rica.
There are so many reasons to stay connected when traveling to Costa Rica, but the most important reason is that it makes your trip to Costa Rica so much more convenient and fun!
At the same time we don't want to waste money on high roaming charges. Many mobile internet operators still charge $3 USD per MB for data roaming, that means just opening the Instagram app will already cost you 20 MB * $3 USD = $60 USD.
Not kidding… it still is very common in 2024.
eSIMs are the easiest way to avoid high roaming charges!
Overseas Data Roaming plans
So what about overseas data roaming plans? Well, not recommended! Why? Did you read the small letters at what data speed you can use data roaming? Pretty much all mobile internet operators limit the data speed for overseas data roaming plans, which means you end up with 3G data speed. Do you have the patience to handle 3G? It is frustrating when all around you at pretty much every amazing tourist destinations in Costa Rica there is 4G/LTE available.
Uncountable times travel friends have asked me: "can I use your hotspot? My data roaming plan is so slow, it is barely working!".
Trust me, get yourself an eSIM or an international prepaid sim card for traveling to Costa Rica. Spend a couple dollars extra and be connected all the time instead of begging for WiFi or a hotspot from a friend.
Where to buy an eSIM for Costa Rica?
Online
There are a ton of websites that offer eSIMs for Costa Rica. Traveltomtom compared multiple eSIM providers and concluded that SimOptions, Sim Local, Roamless, Jetpac, Nomad, Holafly and Airalo are the most reliable eSIM providers for traveling to Costa Rica in 2024.
When buying an eSIM for Costa Rica through one of the above recommended eSIM providers you only need your email address and the eSIM is instantly ready to use after installation. There is no ID registration needed.
On arrival in Costa Rica
There are 3 main mobile internet provider in Costa Rica: Kolbi, Liberty and Claro. As of 2024 all the mobile internet providers in Costa Rica also sell eSIMs for tourists. In phone stores in Costa Rica you can now opt for a tourist eSIM as well as a physical prepaid sim cards for tourists.
For more info about how to buy a prepaid sim card for tourists in Costa Rica click on the link to read my complete guide and comparison of all the mobile internet providers in Costa Rica, including a comparison of the 4G/5G network.
When to order/activate an eSIM for Costa Rica?
You can order an eSIM for Costa Rica pretty much any time you want. Most eSIMs have to be installed on a phone within 1 month after purchasing, some even within 1 year, so you have time.
More important therefore is when do you instal/activate the eSIM. The validity of some eSIMs start straight after the installation, other eSIMs only start their validity when they connect the first time to a supported network.
Traveltomtom advices to instal your eSIM on the day of departure to Costa Rica or before. You will need an internet connection to instal your eSIM.
Therefore Traveltomtom advices you to install/activate your eSIM before departure to Costa Rica. As soon as the plane lands you will be connected without any problems.
How to activate your Costa Rica eSIM
Installing and activating an eSIM is made as simple as possible. Everyone can activate an eSIM and the instructions on how to are very detailed and will be send to you instantly by email. But wait, it gets even easier. Just scan the QR code.
When you order an eSIM plan for Costa Rica you instantly receive a summery of your order including a QR-code after the payment is processed.
You will see a summary of your eSIM order including a QR code on your screen and at the same time you will also receive an email with the same QR code. The email contains instructions on how to instal and activate your Costa Rica eSIM.
But installing an activating an eSIM is as easy as scanning the QR code with the same phone where you want to activate the eSIM on. The QR code contains all the information about your Costa Rica eSIM.
Once you scan the code you will be guided through a couple simple steps and within less than 1 minute your eSIM is successfully installed.
Very important is that you are connected to the internet when installing your eSIM otherwise you will get an error and issues can occur.
Tip: if you order an eSIM with the same phone where you want to instal the eSIM on then ask a friend or someone nearby to take a photo of the QR code and then you scan the QR code from his/her phone and start the installation.
Things to know before ordering an eSIM for Costa Rica
Here are some general tips for using eSIMs when traveling abroad. These tips do not only apply for Costa Rica eSIMs, but are things to know before buying an eSIM in general.
Make sure your phone is unlocked
To make sure you didn't miss this, let me say this again: eSIMs only work in UNLOCKED phones. If your phone is unlocked then you can use any eSIM without any problems.
If your phone is locked then ask your mobile internet provider from your home country to unlock your phone before your trip to Costa Rica. It is likely that your mobile internet provider will charge you a fee for unlocking your smartphone.
If you are unable to unlock your phone you can look into getting a portable WiFi for staying connected when traveling to Costa Rica or better… bring a second unlocked phone on your trip to Costa Rica and use it as a portable WiFi device.
Which smartphones support eSIMs?
Another very important thing you have to check before buying an eSIM is if your smartphone supports eSIMs. If you have any of the latest smartphones then there is no need to worry, all new smartphones of the well known brands support eSIMs.
The fastest way to find out if your phone is eSIM compatible is to dial *#06# on your phone. A screen will pop up and will show you a bunch of barcodes. If you see a barcode with 'EID', then you know your device is eSIM compatible.
If you are not sure then simply ask Google the question: is my (your phone model) eSIM compatible? Simple as that!
Can I trust these eSIM providers?
All the eSIM providers for Costa Rica recommended in this guide are reputable eSIM providers reviewed and tested by the Traveltomtom Team. All of them are licensed third party companies and resellers that partner or work directly with the mobile internet providers in Costa Rica.
Traveltomtom has used Airalo and SimOptions sim cards now for more than 5 years and never really faced a major issue.
Check out our Honest Review about SimOptions with all pros and cons.
The Traveltomtom Team only received positive feedback about Jetpac. We went to test it ourselves and came to the conclusion that Jetpac is an excellent eSIM choice. Read more about it in our extensive review about Jetpac eSIMs.
Sim Local proved to be a reliable eSIM provider after Traveltomtom extensively tested and reviewed Sim Local.
The Traveltomtom Team has extensively tested and reviewed Nomad and they have proven to be a reliable eSIM provider. However, some mixed reviews have come back from the Traveltomtom Team lately about connectivity and activation.
Liberty, Kolbi and Claro are local eSIM providers in Costa Rica. The biggest difference between the mobile internet providers is not the price for prepaid sim cards but is the mobile data network coverage. Find a comparison of the 4G/5G network in Costa Rica in my guide for buying a prepaid sim card in Costa Rica.
Since Traveltomtom is not a fan of eSIMs with unlimited data and an FUP I hardly use Holafly. So I let the Traveltomtom Team randomly test Holafly and just like myself, mixed reviews have come back.
On top of that there is now also Roamless, an eSIM provider with no data expiration. A complete different concept, truly a game changer!
Traveltomtom does NOT sell Costa Rica eSIMs, Traveltomtom only compares and recommends you to use eSIMs for traveling to Costa Rica.
All eSIM providers have their own Helpdesk which you can contact may you encounter any problems or in case you want to claim a refund.
Can I keep my phone number from home with an eSIM?
Yes, you can and this is for many people a reason to order an eSIM to stay connected when traveling to Costa Rica. An eSIM can be used at the same time as your physical or eSIM from your home country at the same time.
So you can have multiple eSIMs installed on your phone? Yes, no problem at all!
For example: you can turn off the mobile data from your sim card from home but still use it for texting and calling. Your new Costa Rica eSIM you can be used at the same time just for data to ensure you are not wasting money on high roaming costs.
This is also the trick to keep receiving sms for example for OTP (one time password) sms to login to applications.
Switching between physical and eSIMs is a matter of turning them on/off in the settings. Just always make sure your sim card from home is switched off for data roaming.
Can I make phone calls with a Costa Rica eSIM?
Yes, Airalo is the only eSIM provider that offers eSIMs for Costa Rica with data and calling minutes. All the other eSIM providers only offer data-only eSIMs for Costa Rica.
Does a Costa Rica eSIM come with a phone number?
Yes, the Airalo data/calls/sms eSIMs for Costa Rica come with a phone number and it supports incoming and outgoing calls/sms.
No other eSIM provider offers eSIMs for Costa Rica with a phone number.
Can I use 5G on a Costa Rica eSIM?
First of all don't get too excited about having 5G when traveling to Costa Rica in 2024. There is still hardly any 5G around, the 5G network in Costa Rica is still very limited and pretty much only exists in the city center of San Juan.
Although some eSIM providers mention that their eSIMs are 5G ready, in reality there is no 5G available in Costa Rica.
Are there eSIMs for Costa Rica with unlimited data?
Yes, the Holafly eSIMs for Costa Rica include unlimited data.
Traveltomtom is in general not a fan of data sim cards with unlimited data. Why? There is mostly a so-called FUP (Fair Use Policy), which is sometimes just 2 GB data per day. That means that after 2 GB usage your internet will be slowed down to an useable data speed like 384 Kbps, which is similar to an E signal.
Sometimes eSIMs have an FUP of 30 GB data per month. It depends on the eSIM specifications.
In general, unlimited data is pretty much never unlimited data at max speed. And trust me the reduced data speed will creep you out as it is so slow, it barely works!
So yes, there are eSIMs for Costa Rica with unlimited data but always read the fine print for more details, terms & conditions.
Jetpac, SimOptions, Roamless, Sim Local, Airalo and Nomad do NOT offer eSIMs for Costa Rica with unlimited data. No hidden fees, no Fair Use Policy. Clear terms & conditions!
Holafly is different and Holafly only offers eSIMs with unlimited data plans per day. However, Holafly but does NOT specify what is the exact so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP) and therefore it is not Traveltomtom's first eSIM recommendation.
On Holafly eSIMs I experienced a reduce in data speed after using more than 2 GB per day. When I contacted support they explained me that I had to wait for 24 hours until my data speed was restored to normal.
Those 24 hours were a nightmare as my data speed was barely enough to use WhatsApp. Social media apps were not even loading!
Again, Traveltomtom does NOT recommend eSIMs for Costa Rica with unlimited data. But if you think you will not use more than 2 GB per day, then this might be your favorite eSIM.
However, if the FUP is 2 GB per day then what is the point of having an eSIM with unlimited data!? Right?
There are a lot of different specifications per eSIM. Another reason why I advice you to take a close at my comparison of the best eSIMs for traveling to Costa Rica in 2024 before choosing your favorite.
Are eSIMs the best way to stay connected when traveling to Costa Rica?
eSIMs are the easiest and fastest way to get data on your phone when traveling to Costa Rica, but what is the best way?
There are 3 ways to stay connected when traveling to Costa Rica:
- Local prepaid sim cards
- International prepaid sim cards
- eSIMs
Let's compare eSIMs, local prepaid sim cards and international prepaid sim cards, for you to find out what is your preferred way of staying connected.
Local prepaid sim cards
If you use a lot of data then local prepaid sim cards for Costa Rica are a cheaper way to stay connected compared to the eSIMs you order online from Airalo, Holafly, Sim Local, Airalo, Roamless, Jetpac or SimOptions.
If you buy a prepaid sim card in a phone store in Costa Rica you will get more data for less money than the available eSIMs. On top of that these local prepaid sim cards come with the option of calling and texting.
Find more info about how to buy a prepaid sim card for tourists in Costa Rica in my complete guide.
International prepaid sim cards
If your smartphone is not eSIM compatible you can order an international prepaid sim card for traveling abroad.
A pre-activated physical sim card will be delivered to your home address before your trip. You put this physical sim card in your phone and as soon as the plane touches the ground and the sim card connects to a supported network you are online. Plug and play!
SimOptions is the only provider that sells international prepaid sim cards for Costa Rica and there is not much choice. An international physical prepaid sim card from Three UK gives you 10 GB data in Costa Rica for $24.90 USD, actually a great sim card deal.
If after visiting Costa Rica you are traveling onwards to other continents or countries in the Pacific then check Traveltomtom's list of the best sim cards for traveling internationally.
eSIMs
As explained throughout the article there are two different eSIMs:
- eSIMs that you buy on the internet through a third party
- eSIMs that you buy in Costa Rica in a mobile internet provider store
As of 2024 eSIMs are now available in phone stores in Costa Rica. In fact most of the Kolbi, Liberty and Claro phone stores in Central San Juan will allow tourists to choose between a physical prepaid sim card and an eSIM.
On arrival at San Jose International Airport Juan Santamaria it can be a hassle to buy a local prepaid sim card for tourists as the sim card shops are not open 24 hours. There is not much choice either and there are only physical prepaid sim cards available, no eSIMs at San Juan Airport.
eSIMs vs. local prepaid sim cards
Getting an eSIM on the internet is the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Costa Rica, no doubt! You arrange everything online within just a couple clicks. Right here, right now and you are all set for your trip to Costa Rica. You arrive prepared and there is no need to visit a sim card shop on arrival in Costa Rica. As soon as the plane lands, you are online.
Price
But what is cheaper? An eSIM or a local prepaid sim card for tourists?
When we compare Costa Rica eSIM prices with local prepaid sim cards for Costa Rica, our conclusion is that local prepaid sim cards are more affordable and you get more Gigabytes for cheaper prices.
You can already get 2 GB data + free social media apps for less than $5 USD per week. As a comparison for $7.5 USD you only get 1 GB data with a Sim Local eSIM for Costa Rica.
That said, after a long flight you just want to go to your hotel and it is often a big task to go to a sim card from a phone store. With an eSIM that you buy on the internet you are connected as soon as the plane lands.
For this convenience Traveltomtom definitely recommends to order one of the listed best eSIMs for Costa Rica in the comparison above. Faster, easier and less stress.
Data Speed
Another difference between a local prepaid sim card and an eSIM is that eSIMs are often through a third party, a so called MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator). These MVNO's operate on the network of one of the main mobile internet operators and basically buy bandwidth.
This may sound a little bit too technical, but what it means is that eSIMs through an MVNO are the last ones in line when the line is busy. Especially during peak times, the performance of an eSIMs is less compared to a local prepaid sim card from a mobile internet operator.
Bottomline: the data speed of eSIMs can be less compared to a local prepaid sim card you buy in Costa Rica on arrival.
I am sure some of the above tips for finding the best eSIM for your trip to Costa Rica were helpful. I hope that after reading through my comparison, tips and tricks it was easier to make a decision and order your eSIM for Costa Rica right away.
If you still have any questions about eSIMs then please leave me a comment below and I am more than happy to help you out.
Curious what the life of a full time nomadic traveler looks like? Go check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom and follow along with daily updates from around the world about the good, the bad and the ugly about traveling.
Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world. As of October 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush.
Enjoy your trip to Costa Rica!