Costa Rica is known for its breathtaking nature and attracts numerous tourists every year. With an eSIM, travelers can now stay mobile even more conveniently without having to worry about physical SIM cards. Large mobile phone providers such as kölbi, Claro and Movistar already support eSIMs and thus enable quick activation.
The eSIMs are particularly interesting for environmentally conscious users because they avoid plastic waste from conventional SIM cards. Digital nomads who use Costa Rica as a remote work destination also benefit from the easy management of tariffs. With good network coverage and high internet speeds, Costa Rica is great for eSIM users, digitization continues to advance here too, and it is expected that eSIMs will soon become even more widespread. So if you want good reception in the jungle, Costa Rica’s beaches or national parks, then you should choose one of the following eSIMs!
The Best eSIMs for Costa Rica
Saily
- Data volume: 10GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/LTE network
- Prices: USD 43.99
The company, which was only founded in 2024, offers four mobile data plans of 1-4 GB. Installation and activation are easy and the eSIM can be used immediately after activation. Here are the data+prices, the main features of Saily, as well as the pros and cons:
- 1GB: Valid for 7 days at a price of 7.99 USD
- 3GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 18.99 USD
- 5GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 26.99 USD
- 10GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of $43.99
Network: Not specified
Network coverage: No information
Key Features of Saily eSIMs for Costa Rica
✅ Four data plans available – Flexible options for different usage needs
✅ Easy eSIM activation – You no longer have to replace your card.
✅ Immediate use – eSIM can be activated and used immediately after purchase
✅ No KYC identity check required – No additional verification process required
✅ Compatibility with Android and iOS – Works on most eSIM-enabled devices
✅ 24/7 Live Chat Support – Customer service will help you around the clock with any questions or problems
✅ Direct connection to local networks – No expensive roaming fees
Pros and Cons Saily
✅ Pros
✔ ️ No identity verification (KYC) required – No additional red tape
✔ ️ Compatible with Android and iOS – Works on most current smartphones
✔ ️ Direct connection to local networks – Stable internet connection without roaming fees
✔ ️ 24/7 customer support via live chat – support for problems available at any time
❌ Cons
❗ No support for calls or SMS – Mobile data only available
❗ No unlimited data volume – Users have to choose a fixed data package
❗ Mobile network – No information is provided as to which mobile network Saily uses
Conclusion: Saily one of the best eSIM cards for Costa Rica
Saily generally makes a very good impression and has already proven itself in other countries. What’s a shame is that the selection of plans is very limited. An unlimited data tariff would be particularly desirable. The lack of information about the mobile network is also slightly negative. The easy installation and easy handling of the app are very positive, as are the low prices
Airalo - eSIM for Costa Rica
Airalo offers several eSIM data plans for Costa Rica.
Here’s an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 4 G/LTE networks
- Price: 35,00 EUR
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Airalo is one of the best-known eSIM providers and is considered a pioneer in the market because the ordering process is quick and easy. The selection of data plans is quite extensive and the network coverage is very good thanks to the local network “Liberty”.
Why use Airalo?
The platform typically offers some of the best eSIM offerings and has proven to be reliable.
Airalo offers six different eSIM plans for Costa Rica:
- 1 GB Validity: 7 days Price: EUR 8.50 / USD 9.50 / GBP 7.50
- 2 GB Validity: 15 days Price: EUR 13.50 / USD 15.00 / GBP 11.50
- 3 GB Validity: 30 days Price: EUR 18.00 / USD 20.00 / GBP 15.50
- 5 GB Validity: 30 days Price: EUR 26.50 / USD 30.00 / GBP 23.00
- 10 GB Validity: 30 days Price: EUR 31.00 / USD 35.00 / GBP 27.00
- 20 GB Validity: 30 days Price: EUR 40.00 / USD 45.00 / GBP 34.50
Network: Airalo uses Liberty’s mobile network
Network coverage: Very good
How the Airalo eSIM for Costa Rica works:
- Search destination and choose data package
- Install eSIM (scan QR code)
- Manage data plan in the app
According to Airalo, these data-only packages use the Liberty 4 G/LTE network.
Because these are data-only plans, neither incoming nor outgoing calls or SMS are possible, and the eSIMs do not have their own phone number.
Airalo eSIMs with data, calls and SMS
Since 2025, Airalo has also had eSIMs with voice and SMS capabilities:
- 1 GB – Valid for 7 days, 10 min calls, 10 SMS, Price: EUR 11.50 / USD 12.00 / GBP 7.50
- 2 GB – Valid for 15 days, 20 min calls, 20 SMS, Price: EUR 17.00 / USD 17.50 / GBP 11.50
- 3 GB – Valid for 30 days, 30 min calls, 30 SMS, Price: EUR 21.50 / USD 22.50 / GBP 15.50
- 5 GB – Valid for 30 days, 50 min calls, 50 SMS, Price: EUR 31.00 / USD 32.50 / GBP 23.00
- 10 GB – Valid for 30 days, 100 min calls, 100 SMS, Price: EUR 37.00 / USD 38.50 / GBP 27.00
- 20 GB – Valid for 30 days, 200 min calls, 200 SMS, Price: EUR 44.50 / USD 46.50 / GBP 34.50
An Airalo eSIM must be activated within 90 days of purchase. The validity period begins from the first connection to a supported network, usually after arrival in Costa Rica.
For more information, it’s worth taking a look at the Airalo website.
Pros and Cons of Airalo
✅ Pros:
- Established provider: Airalo is one of the best-known eSIM brands worldwide with a reliable reputation.
- Good Plan selection: Airalo offers some data-only tariffs and tariffs from data and calls
- Good network coverage: Airalo uses Liberty’s established mobile network.
- Intuitive app: The Airalo app is user-friendly and allows for easy installation and management.
❌ Cons:
- Only one mobile network: only one mobile network is used.
- No unlimited data plan available.
- Price – Airalo is one of the more expensive providers in comparison.
Conclusion: What makes Airalo one of the best eSIM providers for Costa Rica?
The large selection of plans is particularly impressive. What is also very positive is that Airalo is the only provider in our comparison to offer plan with call minutes. The only downside is the fact that only one mobile network is supported.
Holafly - eSIM Costa Rica
Holafly offers several eSIM data plans for Costa Rica.
- Here’s an example:
Data Volume: Unlimited Data - Validity: 7 days
Calls and SMS: Not included - Network: Use of the 4 G/LTE network
- Hotspot function: Sharing up to 500 MB of data per day possible
Price: 33,90 EUR
Holafly offers various eSIM mobile data plans for Costa Rica, with terms ranging from 1 to 90 days.
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Holafly offers eSIMs with unlimited data volume for Costa Rica. The price for the tariff depends on the number of days you choose. The more days you choose, the lower the daily price will be. Holafly is particularly suitable for frequent users.
Here are a few examples of the Holafly tariff options for Costa Rica:
- 1 day: Unlimited dates for €5.90 / $7.90 / £7.00
- 5 days: Unlimited data for €18.90 (€3.78 /day) / $29.90 / £24.00
- 7 days: Unlimited dates for €33.90 (4,84€ /day) / $36.90 / £30.00
- 15 days: Unlimited dates for €46.90 (3,13€ /day) / $50.90 / £41.00
- 30 days: Unlimited data for €68.90 (€2.30 /day) / $93.90 / £75.00
Mobile network: Holafly uses the Movistar / Claro networks
Network coverage: Very good
How the Holafly eSIM for Costa Rica works:
- Search for Costa Rica on the Holafly website and enter the number of days you are going to stay
- Scan the QR code or enter the activation code manually
- Easily manage your plan via the app
These eSIMs do not include calls or text messages. Note that the hotspot function is limited to 500 MB per day.
Pros and Cons Holafly
✅ Pros
- Two mobile networks: Holafly uses several network operators in Costa Rica (e.g. B. Kolbi and Movistar) – this means you benefit from very good network coverage even in more rural regions.
- Unlimited data volume (depending on the tariff): Perfect for Google Maps, WhatsApp, social media, etc. without having to worry about the data limit.
- No roaming necessary: You avoid high roaming fees from your home provider.
- 24/7 customer support in English: Help is available if you have any problems.
❌ Cons
- No local phone number: You usually cannot make calls or receive/send SMS, only use mobile internet.
- No hotspot tethering (with many Holafly eSIMs): You cannot share your data volume with other devices.
- Only usable with eSIM compatible devices: not all smartphones (vs. older models) support eSIMs.
Conclusion: What makes Holafly one of the best eSIM for Costa Rica?
We can recommend Holafly as one of the best eSIM for Costa Rica because it has very good network coverage, which is one of the most important criteria when choosing an eSIM. The use of two mobile networks is also very positive and offers security. Unfortunately, hotspot use is limited.
Airhub eSIM for Costa Rica
7GB data
Valid in Costa Rica
No calls or text messages
Valid for 30 days
Uses the 4 G/LTE network
Price: 22.00 USDAirhub offers a total of five different eSIM plans for Costa Rica.
Airhub offers convenient and affordable eSIM options for travelers in Costa Rica, combining reliable mobile data with the added benefit of calls and SMS on selected plans. With quick activation via QR code and access to trusted local networks, Airhub makes it easy to stay connected while exploring Costa Rica’s beaches, rainforests, and cities, all without the need for a physical SIM card.
Airhub offers the following data plans for Costa Rica:
- 4 GB Validity: 30 days Price: 13.50 USD (approx. EUR 12,15)
- 7 GB Validity: 30 days Price: USD 22.00 (approx. EUR 19,80)
- 12 GB – Validity: 30 days Price: USD 42.00 (approx. EUR 37,80)
Mobile network: Airhub uses Claro’s well-developed network
Network coverage: Very good
These plans are data-based and do not include calls or text messages.
How does the Airhub eSIM Costa Rica work?
- Download the app and search for your destination country
- Choose your data plan
- Install the eSIM using one of the offered methods (QR code, manual, automatic)
Pros and Cons of Airhub in Costa Rica
✅ Pros:
- Affordable prices: Airhub is the cheapest provider in our comparison.
- Easy activation: Fast delivery via QR code, immediately after purchase.
- Good network coverage: Collaboration with established local network operators ensures a stable connection.
❌ Cons:
- No unlimited data package available.
- Limited terms: Most tariffs are limited to 30 days.
- Few rates – Airhub only offers three mobile data plans
Conclusion: Airhub
By working with the network operator Claro, you can expect a stable data connection and good network coverage. Unfortunately, what is a bit disappointing is the limited selection of plans. There are no packages including data and calls and an unlimited tariff is also not available.
Jetpac eSIM for Costa Rica -10GB for 33.00 USD
- 10GB of data
- Valid in Costa Rica
- No calls or text messages
- Valid for 30 days
- Uses the 4 G/LTE network
- Price: $33.00
Jetpac offers a total of five different eSIM tariffs for Costa Rica.
Jetpac is an easy to use provider that over additional perks like free access or discounts for airport lounges. Additionally there are subscription models for long term travelers or expat workers available.
Jetpac offers a vast selection of mobile data plans for very good prices.
Jetpac offers the following eSIM data plans for Costa Rica:
- 1 GB – Validity: 4 days Price: USD 4.00 / EUR 4.00 (≈3.60 discounted to EUR 4 in screenshot) / GBP 3.50
3 GB – Validity: 30 days Price: USD 14.00 / EUR 14.50 / GBP 12.50
5 GB – Validity: 30 days Price: USD 20.00 / EUR 19.00 / GBP 16.50
10 GB – Validity: 30 days Price: USD 33.00 / EUR 31.50 / GBP 27.50
20 GB – Validity: 30 days Price: USD 58.00 / EUR 55.50 / GBP 48.00
Key features of Jetpac
✔️ Instant Setup – When you arrive in Costa Rica, your eSIM will automatically activate without the need to insert a physical SIM card.
✔ ️ Customizable Data Plans – There are a variety of data plans that meet the needs of tourists, whether you are in Costa Rica for a short or long period of time.
✔️ User-friendly App – Available for iOS and Android devices, the Jetpac app allows you to control your eSIM, monitor data usage, and purchase more data when needed.
✔ ️ Reliable Network Coverage – Jetpac works with leading Costa Rican network operators to provide you with fast and reliable mobile internet service wherever you are in the country.
Exclusive discounts
✔ ️ Free ExpressVPN Trial – Protect yourself online with a free 30-day trial of ExpressVPN to encrypt your data and surf the Internet anonymously.
✔ ️ Airport Lounge Access – If your flight is delayed by more than 60 minutes, Jetpac offers free access to the airport lounges so you can easily wait for your flight.
How to use Jetpac eSIM:
- Download the Jetpac app – in the App Store or on Google Play.
- Choose your plan – Choose a data tariff that is suitable for your itinerary.
- Install the eSIM – Activate the eSIM using an in-app guide.
- Stay connected – When you land in Costa Rica, your eSIM automatically switches to the local network.
Pros and Cons of Jetpac one of the best eSIMs for Costa Rica
✅ Pros
- Flexible data plans: Jetpac offers a good selection of tariffs from small to large data packages.
- Additional services: benefits such as lounge access, smart delay (access to airport lounges if delayed), fast track, or student discounts (10%) make Jetpac especially appealing.
- Easy installation: The eSIM can be easily activated via QR code, manually or via the app.
❌ Cons
- Data rates only: For Costa Rica, Jetpac does not offer rates with calls or text messages – data only.
- No unlimited data package: There are currently no tariffs available with unlimited data volume.
- Regional plan only for multiple countries: No purely local plan just for Costa Rica – this can unnecessarily increase the price if you are only traveling in one country.
Conclusion: Jetpac eSIM Costa Rica
What makes Jetpac one of the best providers? What is particularly noticeable about Jetpac are the low prices. There is also a good selection of tariffs, although an unlimited package is unfortunately missing. Claro, one of the best mobile networks, is used, which should guarantee a stable connection.
eSIM Costa Rica comparison table
| Provider | Data | Validity | Network | Calls/SMS | Unlimited | Hotspot | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo | 10 GB | 30 days | Liberty | ✅ (new) | ❌ | ✅ | €35 |
| Holafly | Unlimited | 7–90 days | Movistar/Claro | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ (limited) | from €5.90/day |
| Jetpac | 10 GB | 30 days | Claro | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | $33 |
| Airhub | 7 GB | 30 days | Claro | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | $22 |
| Saily | 10 GB | 30 days | ? | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | $43.99 |
Quick comparison of eSIM providers:
- Airhub: 7 GB for 22,00 EUR
- Airalo: 5 GB for 32.50 EUR (network unspecified)
- Saily: 5 GB for 26.99 USD
- Jetpac: 5 GB for 20.00 USD
- Holafly: 1 week unlimited dates for 33.90 EUR
For travelers to Costa Rica, several providers offer eSIM solutions that are a flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional SIM cards. An eSIM allows you to establish a mobile data connection without physically changing maps, which is particularly convenient for international travel.
Availability and Network Coverage:
The providers mentioned mainly use the Liberty and Claro networks in Costa Rica. Network coverage is good in urban areas such as San Jose, but can vary in rural or remote regions. It is therefore advisable to check the network coverage of the respective provider in the planned travel areas.
Liberty: A detailed map of Liberty Movil’s 3 G, 4 G, and 5 G coverage can be found on nPerf: nPerf
Movistar: For information about Movistar’s network coverage in Costa Rica, you can go to the Open Signal page: Open Signal
Claro: The coverage map for Claro’s mobile network in Costa Rica is also available on nPerf: nPerf
Benefits of eSIMs:
Immediate activation: eSIMs can be activated immediately after purchase, eliminating the need to go to local stores.
Flexibility: Different data plans make it possible to choose a tariff according to individual usage habits and length of stay.
No physical change: Since no physical SIM card is required, the device’s SIM slot remains free for other purposes.
Important information:
- Compatibility: Make sure your device is eSIM enabled and unlocked.
- Data sharing: Some providers allow sharing of the mobile data connection (hotspot), but restrictions may apply.
- Calls and SMS: Not all eSIM plans include voice or SMS services. If you need these features, check the provider’s tariff details.
Summary eSIM Costa Rica:
eSIMs offer a convenient way to stay connected during your stay in Costa Rica. However, it is important to compare each provider’s specific offers to find the most suitable package for your needs.
Criteria you should consider before buying an eSIM for Costa Rica
Travel duration: How long are you traveling? Depending on the duration of your trip, you should choose the validity of your card. After all, you want to be connected when you arrive but don’t want to pay too much.
Calls and data: You should know for yourself whether a pure data plan is enough or whether you would prefer to have call minutes and possibly a local telephone number. Some providers offer tariffs for calls and data.
Mobile hotspot: If you already know that it is important to you to use your hotspot, you should choose an appropriate e-SIM provider that allows you to do so. Some companies limit use or don’t even offer it.
Destination: Will you be in more rural areas or are you more in big cities. Most eSIMs have good coverage in large cities and tourist zones, but you should check that good network coverage is guaranteed in more remote areas.
Price: The most expensive eSIM is not always the best! Compare and choose the best price-performance ratio.
Alternative: Local prepaid SIM cards in Costa Rica
If you are planning a longer stay in Costa Rica, you may want to consider getting a cost-effective local prepaid SIM card instead of an eSIM. Although this is a little more complex, it can be particularly worthwhile for travelers who need a lot of data volume.
You can get the best-known card providers kölbi (state-owned), Movistar and Claro in supermarkets, kiosks, special telephone shops of the providers or directly at the airport.
However, local SIM cards also come with some drawbacks:
- As a rule, purchasing is a longer process because you first have to go to a store
- There is a registration requirement that requires the presentation of a passport
- Possibly high roaming fees outside Costa Rica
- Physical exchange of the card
✅ Advantages of local SIM cards:
- Very cheap tariffs with high or unlimited data volume
- Good network coverage in urban areasIdeal for long-term travelers or digital nomads with longer stays
❌ Disadvantages compared to eSIM:
- No immediate online purchase possible
- Activation only on site with identification document
- Not as flexible as eSIMs, especially when changing countries
- No parallel operation with a second SIM card possible (e.g. B. Home map)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you use any cell phone with an eSIM?
Not all cell phones are eSIM compatible. If you are not sure whether your smartphone is eSIM-capable, you can check this either on the provider’s website or under your settings in your phone. Providers usually have a list of all compatible models available.
How do I install my Costa Rica eSIM?
Installation is very uncomplicated with most providers. There are different ways you can install your card. You usually do this via a QR code, manually via an installation link or automatically in the app with a simple click.
It is important that you have a stable internet connection during installation.
How do I activate my virtual card?
Your card will be activated automatically upon your arrival in your destination country as soon as your cell phone connects to a local mobile network.
Mobile data and roaming must be switched on.
Which is the best mobile network in Costa Rica?
Claro is overall, the best mobile network in Costa Rica. When it comes to network coverage, Movistar and Kölbi are on a similar level.
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