Best eSIM For Costa Rica: Plans, Pricing & Setup (2025 Edition)

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? But don’t let expensive roaming charges or the hassle of finding a local SIM ruin your pura vida experience. An eSIM can be your best travel companion, keeping you connected easily and affordably. It is a smart way!

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What is an eSIM and How Does it Work?

An eSIM is like a digital SIM card that’s already inside your phone, or some newer tablets and smartwatches. You don’t need to insert a small plastic card anymore! To get internet, you just scan a code (a QR code) that your eSIM company gives you. It’s incredibly convenient, particularly for travelers. It saves time and avoids the potential complications.

Traditional SIM cards are physical and tied to a specific carrier. You have to physically swap them out when you change networks or travel internationally. eSIMs are much better. You can change phone companies or plans just by changing the settings on your phone. In Costa Rica, this means you can get online with a local company easily, without having to go to a store or fill out forms. And the best part? You don’t have to remove your usual SIM card, so you won’t lose it! More and more new phones are using eSIMs because they’re so convenient.

You Might Also Like to Read: What Is An eSIM Card And How Do They Work?

 

eSIM vs Prepaid SIM Card for Costa Rica

Here’s a quick comparison to highlight the differences. We also share this article with you so you can delve even deeper.

 

Why Choose an eSIM for Traveling in Costa Rica?

Spend Less on Roaming Fees

Traditional roaming charges from your home carrier can be shockingly high. We’re talking about potentially paying up to $3 per MB, which adds up incredibly fast. Even basic daily usage, like checking maps and sending a few messages, could lead to a massive bill at the end of your trip.
An eSIM allows you to use local Costa Rican data plans. Which are really cheaper.
This means you’re paying local rates instead of inflated international roaming fees.

For example, imagine a tourist using their home provider’s roaming plan in Costa Rica. They could easily spend over $200 (or even much more) in a single month, depending on their data usage. With an eSIM, a comparable data plan might cost only $25-$35. That’s a huge saving, leaving you with more money to spend on experiences like ziplining or exploring national parks!

But if you still need to know more to save more on your trip, you can check out this practical guide for more information.

Quick and Easy Activation

Forget about wasting precious vacation time searching for a SIM card vendor at the airport or struggling with complicated instructions. With an eSIM, you can get everything set up before you even arrive in Costa Rica.

Simply purchase your eSIM plan online, receive the activation details (usually a QR code), and activate it on your phone. You’ll be connected to the internet the moment you land, ready to navigate, contact your hotel, or share your first amazing photos.

Travel with One eSIM Everywhere

Is your Costa Rican adventure part of a larger Central American journey? Many eSIM providers offer regional or even global plans that cover multiple countries. So, if you’re planning to visit Nicaragua, Panama, or other nearby destinations after Costa Rica, you won’t need to buy a new SIM card for each country. Your eSIM will keep you connected seamlessly as you travel.

Eco-Friendly Connectivity

Traditional plastic SIM cards contribute significantly to electronic waste. Millions of these tiny cards are produced and discarded every year, ending up in landfills. eSIMs eliminate the need for physical cards, making them a more sustainable and environmentally conscious option. It is a smart choice!

By choosing an eSIM, you’re playing a small but important part in reducing plastic waste and protecting Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

Connected in Remote Locations

Costa Rica offers diverse landscapes, from bustling cities like San José to remote rainforests, volcanoes, and stunning coastlines. While major urban areas typically have excellent network coverage, you’ll also want to stay connected when exploring more off-the-beaten-path locations.

A reliable eSIM provider ensures you have access to strong 4G/5G connectivity, even in more remote areas like the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the Osa Peninsula, Tortuguero National Park, or the beautiful beaches of Guanacaste. This means you can navigate, share your experiences, and stay in touch, no matter where your Costa Rican adventure takes you.

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How to Choose the Best eSIM for Costa Rica

Is Coverage Guaranteed on Your Journey?

Costa Rica’s varied terrain means that network coverage can fluctuate depending on your location. If you’re primarily staying in major cities and tourist hubs like San José, Liberia, Tamarindo, or Jacó, most eSIM providers will offer adequate coverage.

However, if you’re planning to explore more remote areas, such as Corcovado National Park, La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano area), or the Caribbean coast, it’s crucial to choose an eSIM that partners with Costa Rica’s strongest local networks. The main network providers are Kolbi (ICE), Claro, and Movistar. Checking which network an eSIM provider uses is essential to ensure reliable connectivity throughout your trip.

How Much Data Do You Actually Need?

Your data needs will depend on your individual usage habits.

• Light users: If you primarily use your phone for basic navigation (Google Maps), checking emails, and occasional messaging, a plan with 1GB to 2GB of data per week should be sufficient.

• Medium users: If you enjoy posting on social media, making video calls, and browsing the internet more frequently, consider a plan with 4GB to 8GB for a two-week stay.

• Heavy users: If you plan to stream videos/music, work remotely (requiring frequent video conferencing and large file transfers), or use cloud storage extensively, an unlimited data plan or a plan with at least 15-20GB might be the best option.
  Consider also the days.

How Long Will You Be Traveling?

eSIM plans vary in duration, from a few days to a month or even longer.

• Short trips (1-7 days): A weekly plan with a daily data allowance (e.g., 1GB per day) is a practical choice.
• Longer stays (2 weeks or more): Consider plans with larger data allowances (5GB, 10GB, or unlimited) to avoid running out of data mid-trip.

Remember, if you’re a frequent traveler or plan to visit multiple countries, look into multi-country or regional eSIM plans that offer coverage across North and Central America, or even globally.

Calls and Texts, or Data Only?

Most eSIM plans are data-only, meaning they provide internet access but don’t include traditional voice calls or SMS text messages. For communication, you’ll need to rely on data-based apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, Skype, or FaceTime.

However, some eSIM providers do offer plans that include a local phone number and a limited number of call minutes. If having a local number for calls and texts is essential for your trip (e.g., for making local reservations or contacting businesses), be sure to check this feature before purchasing your eSIM.

Do You Need an eSIM Hotspot?

If you plan to share your Costa Rican internet connection with other devices, like your laptop or a tablet, it’s essential to check if your chosen eSIM plan supports “tethering” or “hotspot” functionality. Not all eSIM plans allow you to share your data connection. Some providers specifically restrict tethering, so if you rely on using your phone as a mobile hotspot to get your other devices online, double-check this before you buy. This is particularly important if you plan to work remotely or travel with others who need to connect.

What’s the Price?

eSIM prices in Costa Rica vary depending on several factors: the provider you choose, the amount of data included in the plan, the plan’s duration, and whether it offers additional features like calls/texts.

• Budget Travelers: If you’re on a tight budget and primarily need data for basic tasks, you can find short-term eSIM plans with smaller data allowances (1GB-3GB) starting as low as $5-$7.

• Value Seekers: If you’re looking for the best balance of price and coverage, look for plans from providers known for their reliability in Costa Rica. These often offer mid-range data packages (5GB-10GB) at reasonable prices.

• Heavy Data Users: If you plan to stream videos frequently, work remotely, or need constant connectivity, unlimited data plans are available, though they tend to be pricier. Expect to pay more for the convenience of unlimited data access.

Compare plans carefully to find the best value for your specific needs, and keep an eye out for promotional offers or bundle discounts that some providers might offer.

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Best eSIM Providers for Costa Rica in 2025

Yoho Mobile

Yoho Mobile stands out for its customizable plans and competitive pricing, making it a flexible and budget-friendly option for travelers to Costa Rica. You can choose the exact amount of data and the duration that suits your needs, which helps avoid overspending. For example, a 3 GB plan might cost around $9.92 and be valid for 7 days, while larger or longer-term plans are also available. Yoho Mobile utilizes both 4G and 5G networks in Costa Rica, ensuring fast and reliable speeds in areas with coverage.

A major advantage is that Yoho Mobile does allow hotspot usage, so you can share your phone’s internet connection with your laptop, tablet, or other devices. Yoho Mobile offers excellent 24/7 customer support, available in multiple languages. This is a huge benefit if you encounter any issues or have questions, regardless of the time zone. You can manage your plan, purchase top-ups, and contact support directly through their user-friendly app, which is available for both iOS (iPhone) and Android devices.

 

Flexiroam

Flexiroam is a good option for frequent international travelers because it offers eSIM plans that work seamlessly across many countries, including Costa Rica. They provide various plan options; for instance, a 1 GB plan might cost around $18 and be valid for one week. Flexiroam primarily uses 4G networks in Costa Rica, and its coverage is generally strong in urban areas and popular tourist destinations.

Flexiroam does support hotspot usage, allowing you to share your data connection with other devices. While Flexiroam’s global coverage is a major advantage for some, it’s worth noting that their pricing in Costa Rica specifically can sometimes be a bit higher compared to providers that focus primarily on the Costa Rican market. Their wide range of international plans might be less cost-effective if you’re only traveling to Costa Rica. They also have permanent technical assistance that you can consult if you have any problems with your connection.

Jetpac

Jetpac focuses on providing simple and budget-friendly eSIM plans, making it an attractive option for travelers who prioritize affordability. In Costa Rica, you might find a 3 GB plan for $14, valid for 30 days. They utilize 4G networks, providing a stable and reliable connection in most parts of Costa Rica, including major cities and tourist areas. Jetpac does support hotspot functionality, so you can share your data connection with other devices if needed.

A major downside of Jetpac is that it doesn’t offer unlimited data plans. If you’re a heavy data user who streams a lot of video, makes frequent video calls, or downloads large files, you’ll need to carefully monitor your data usage to avoid running out. Additionally, with Jetpac, you’ll also have regular customer service if you need technical assistance.

Saily

Saily is known for offering affordable short-term eSIM plans, which are particularly well-suited for tourists and short-term visitors to Costa Rica. For example, a 3 GB plan might cost around $18.99 and be valid for 30 days, offering good value for a month-long stay. Saily uses 4G networks in Costa Rica, providing decent coverage in most areas. You can use your phone as a hotspot with Saily, sharing your internet connection with other devices.

It is important to keep in mind the limited plan variety, for users needing small amounts of data over extended periods, the available plans may not be ideal, as smaller packages are only valid for shorter durations.

Airhub

Airhub is another provider specializing in multi-country eSIM plans, perfect if your travels extend beyond Costa Rica. They have options covering regions like Central America, North America, or even global plans. In Costa Rica, Airhub offers various plans. A 7 GB plan can cost around $22 dollars, during a whole month. They provide coverage using both 4G and 5G networks, which means potentially faster speeds, where 5G is available. Airhub does permit hotspot usage, a plus for those traveling with companions.

A major downside of using Airhub is that they charge a convenience fee of 3.5% of the purchase price for an eSIM plan. This fee is applied by Airhub’s payment partner and typically amounts to around $1–2. While you can manage your plan directly on their website and reach customer service via chat and email, this additional fee may be a consideration for some users.

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How to Buy & Activate an eSIM for Costa Rica

Getting an eSIM for your Costa Rican adventure is easy! Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose Your eSIM Provider

First, make sure your phone can use eSIMs. You can usually find this information in your phone’s settings or on the manufacturer’s website. If your phone is compatible, great! Yoho Mobile is a solid choice, with good coverage in Costa Rica. Look at different providers and their plans to find the best fit for you.

Step 2: Go to the Yoho Mobile Store

You have two options: visit the Yoho Mobile website directly, or download the Yoho Mobile app from the App Store (if you have an iPhone) or the Google Play Store (if you have an Android phone). Both the website and the app make it easy to buy your eSIM.

Step 3: Select Costa Rica as Your Destination

Choose “Costa Rica” from the list of countries. If you’re also visiting other countries nearby, like Nicaragua or Panama, consider getting a multi-country plan. This way, you’ll have data in all those places without needing separate eSIMs.

Step 4: Pick Your Yoho Mobile Plan

Think about how long you’ll be in Costa Rica and how much data you’ll use. Here are some ideas:

• Short Trip (a few days): A 1GB or 3GB plan should be enough for maps and messaging.
• Longer Trip (a week or more): A 5GB, 10GB, or even an unlimited plan is a good idea if you like to watch videos or make video calls.
• Working remotely?: If you need internet all the time for work, an unlimited plan is your best bet.

Step 5: Purchase Your eSIM

Once you’ve chosen your plan, buying it is simple, either on the website or in the app:

• Type in your email address. This is where Yoho Mobile will send your eSIM information.
• Look for a spot to enter a promo code. Use YOHO12 to get 12% off!
• Choose how you want to pay (credit card, PayPal, etc.) and enter your payment details.

 

Step 6: Install and Activate Your eSIM

After you buy your eSIM, Yoho Mobile will email you a QR code. This code is like a key to unlock your eSIM.

1. Make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi. You’ll need Wi-Fi to set up the eSIM.
2. Open your phone’s settings.
3. Find the “Mobile Data” or “Cellular” section.
4. Look for an option like “Add eSIM” or “Add Data Plan”.
5. Scan the QR code that Yoho Mobile sent you. Your phone’s camera will do this.
6. Wait a few moments. Your eSIM might activate right away, or it might start on a specific date, depending on the plan you choose.

 

Is an eSIM Worth It in Costa Rica?

Without a doubt, an eSIM is a fantastic and practical tool for staying connected in Costa Rica. It’s a smart way to avoid those shocking roaming charges from your home provider, and it saves you the time and hassle of trying to find and purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Plus, you get reliable 4G/5G service in most parts of the country.

Whether you’re exploring the rainforests, relaxing on beautiful beaches, navigating with online maps, sharing your adventures on social media, or even working remotely, an eSIM provides a smooth and seamless online experience. It really is the modern, convenient way to travel connected and make the most of your trip to Costa Rica!

Picture by Fabio Fistarol on Pexels

 

FAQs About Using an eSIM in Costa Rica

How much data do I need for my trip to Costa Rica?

It depends on what you do online. If you just use maps and send messages, 3GB to 5GB per week is probably fine. If you love social media and video calls, 6GB to 12GB for two weeks might be better. If you work online or stream lots of videos, consider an unlimited plan.

Does Costa Rica support eSIM?

Yes! Major Costa Rican networks like Kolbi (ICE), Claro, and Movistar all support eSIM technology. You’ll find good coverage in most tourist areas and cities, whether you’re in San José or exploring the beaches of Guanacaste, using an eSIM provider.

Can I make calls and send texts with a Costa Rica eSIM?

Most eSIMs are just for internet data. That means you’ll use apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, or Zoom to talk to people. Some eSIM companies do offer plans with a local phone number for calls and texts, so if that’s important, check before you buy. See this guide for more.

What is the best eSIM for Costa Rica?

It largely depends on your travel style, but overall, Yoho Mobile stands out as the best eSIM provider in Costa Rica for flexible plans and cost savings.