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Costa Rica’s eSIM market is on the rise as tourism surges — 2024 saw a record 2.6 million international visitors, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. With more travelers seeking hassle-free, reliable internet access, eSIMs are becoming a go-to solution.
Known for its rich biodiversity, eco-friendly culture, and high quality of life, Costa Rica is full of interesting facts that might surprise first-time visitors. Whether you're in the rainforest, on the beach, or in San José, an eSIM makes it easy to stay connected.
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your phone — no physical chip required. You activate it by scanning a QR code or installing a profile, which means you can set up your mobile data before you even leave home.
This avoids airport SIM kiosks, language barriers at local shops, and the need to carry multiple SIM cards while traveling. It’s fast, convenient, and ideal for travelers who want to stay connected without extra hassle.
In Costa Rica, eSIMs are especially useful for:
Costa Rica has widespread 4G/LTE coverage in most cities, towns, and popular tourist areas — including Liberia, Tamarindo, La Fortuna, and Manuel Antonio.
In urban zones, network speeds are generally fast and stable. However, once you head into rural regions, national parks, or beach towns like Montezuma or Drake Bay, public Wi-Fi becomes far less reliable. Speeds can drop or connections may cut out altogether, especially in eco-lodges or remote accommodations.
That’s where having your own mobile data — via eSIM — makes a difference. Whether you're calling a taxi, checking weather before a hike, or translating a restaurant menu, you'll want a consistent connection.
An eSIM gives you the flexibility to stay online without relying on cafes or hotel Wi-Fi, which may not support video calls or large file uploads.
Here’s a quick guide to choosing the right plan based on how you use your phone:
Having mobile data gives you freedom — not just to stay connected, but to travel smarter in a country where natural beauty often lives off the grid.
Not all eSIMs are the same — and choosing the right one can make a big difference in your travel experience. Here’s what to look for when comparing providers:
Based on our research, these are the best eSIM providers for travelers visiting Costa Rica.
Holafly is one of the most reliable eSIM providers for Costa Rica, especially for travelers who value unlimited data and a quick, app-free setup. After purchase, you’ll receive your eSIM instantly via email with a QR code. Simply scan the code, install the eSIM, and turn on data roaming when you arrive in Costa Rica — no app or physical SIM required.
Holafly connects users to top local networks such as Liberty, offering stable 4G LTE coverage in major tourist areas and urban hubs. While 5G is still limited in Costa Rica, Holafly’s speed and reliability are well-suited for everything from maps and messaging to video calls and content uploads.
The eSIM is compatible with most eSIM-ready smartphones (iPhone XR and newer, Google Pixel 4+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, etc.), though Holafly does not officially support tablets or smartwatches. If you’re unsure whether your phone is compatible, you can use Holafly’s device checker tool on their website.
All Holafly Costa Rica plans include unlimited data, but Fair Use Policies apply — meaning speeds may be reduced after heavy usage. Plans are available in durations ranging from 1 to 90 days. While the eSIM does not come with a Costa Rican phone number or SMS service, you can make calls using VOIP apps like WhatsApp or Skype.
Hotspot usage is available, but limited to 500MB per day, which is helpful for sharing data with another device while traveling.
Holafly also provides 24/7 live chat support, making it easy to troubleshoot or get help even mid-trip. This level of support is a major advantage for travelers unfamiliar with eSIM setup.
Key features:
Data plans for Costa Rica:
| Plan Duration | Price | Data |
| 5 Days | $29.90 | Unlimited |
| 10 Days | $39.90 | Unlimited |
| 15 Days | $50.90 | Unlimited |
| 20 Days | $61.90 | Unlimited |
| 30 Days | $93.90 | Unlimited |
Pros:
Cons:
GigSky is a well-established eSIM provider based in Palo Alto, California, offering global data solutions across over 190 countries. For travelers to Costa Rica, GigSky provides a range of flexible data plans that cater to various needs, from short-term stays to longer vacations.
After purchasing a plan, users receive their eSIM via email or through the GigSky app. Installation is straightforward: scan the provided QR code or install directly from the app. Activation occurs upon arrival in Costa Rica when the device connects to a supported network.
GigSky's eSIMs connect to major local networks, ensuring reliable 4G/LTE coverage in most urban and tourist areas. While specific network partners aren't disclosed, users can expect stable internet access suitable for browsing, streaming, and navigation.
The provider offers a variety of data plans, ranging from 1GB to unlimited data options, with validity periods spanning from 7 to 30 days. Notably, GigSky provides a free 100MB trial for new users, allowing travelers to test the service before committing to a paid plan.
The eSIMs are compatible with most modern smartphones that support eSIM functionality, including iPhone XS and newer models, Pixel 4 and above, and recent Samsung Galaxy devices. Hotspot sharing is supported, enabling users to connect multiple devices.
While GigSky's plans are data-only and do not include a local phone number or SMS capabilities, users can utilize VoIP services like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime for communication needs.
Customer support is available 24/7 through the GigSky app and website, providing assistance with setup and troubleshooting.
Key features:
Data plans for Costa Rica:
| Plan Duration | Price | Data |
| 15 Days | $11.54 | 3GB |
| 30 Days | $13.99 | 5GB |
| 30 Days | $25.54 | 10GB |
| 1 Day | $4.24 | Unlimited |
| 3 Days | $10.49 | Unlimited |
Pros:
Cons:
Yesim is a Swiss-based eSIM provider that offers flexible and affordable data plans for travelers in Costa Rica. With a user-friendly app and a variety of plan options, Yesim caters to both short-term tourists and long-term visitors.
After purchasing a plan, users receive their eSIM via email or through the Yesim app. Installation is straightforward: scan the provided QR code or install directly from the app. Activation occurs upon arrival in Costa Rica when the device connects to a supported network.
Yesim's eSIMs connect to major local networks, ensuring reliable 4G/LTE coverage in most urban and tourist areas. While specific network partners aren't disclosed, users can expect stable internet access suitable for browsing, streaming, and navigation.
The provider offers a variety of data plans, ranging from 3GB to unlimited data options, with validity periods spanning from 7 to 30 days.
The eSIMs are compatible with most modern smartphones that support eSIM functionality, including iPhone XS and newer models, Pixel 4 and above, and recent Samsung Galaxy devices. Hotspot sharing is supported, enabling users to connect multiple devices.
While Yesim's plans are data-only and do not include a local phone number or SMS capabilities, users can utilize VoIP services like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime for communication needs.
Customer support is available 24/7 through the Yesim app and website, providing assistance with setup and troubleshooting.
Key features:
Data plans for Costa Rica:
| Plan Duration | Price | Data |
| 15 Days | $18 | 5GB |
| 30 Days | $30 | 10GB |
| 30 Days | $42 | 20GB |
| 1 Day | $12 | Unlimited |
| 7 Days | $34.80 | Unlimited |
Pros:
Cons:
Nomad is a solid choice for travelers looking for flexible, no-frills data plans while in Costa Rica. After purchase, you’ll receive your eSIM via email along with a QR code. You can install it directly on your device and activate it upon arrival by enabling data roaming — no app required to complete setup, though the Nomad app is available for plan tracking and top-ups.
Speeds are generally stable for messaging, streaming, and GPS navigation. Some users may experience reduced performance in remote jungle or mountain regions, which is common for all providers.
Nomad plans range from 1GB to 20GB with validity periods of up to 30 days. This makes it ideal for short trips, working vacations, or extended stays. While there’s no unlimited data option, the pricing is competitive — and for most travelers, even the mid-range plans will be sufficient.
Nomad supports hotspot tethering on all Costa Rica plans, making it useful if you need to connect a laptop or second device. The eSIM is compatible with most current eSIM-ready phones including iPhone XS and newer, Pixel 4+, and Galaxy S20 series or later.
Note that Nomad does not provide a Costa Rican phone number or SMS capabilities. You’ll need to rely on VOIP apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or Skype for calling and messaging.
Customer support is available via email and in-app chat 24/7.
Key features:
Data plans for Costa Rica:
| Plan Duration | Price | Data |
| 30 Days | $15 | 3GB |
| 30 Days | $19 | 5GB |
| 30 Days | $24 | 10GB |
| 30 Days | $29 | 20GB |
Pros:
Cons:
Airalo is one of the most popular eSIM providers globally — and in Costa Rica, it offers an affordable and flexible way to stay connected. After purchase, your eSIM is delivered via the Airalo app or email. You can install it directly from the app or by scanning a QR code, then activate it once you arrive and turn on data roaming.
Airalo’s eSIM for Costa Rica connects you to Liberty, one of the major local carriers, offering stable 4G coverage in most urban and tourist areas. Airalo offers multiple data plans with validity periods from 7 to 30 days, making it a great fit for both short stays and longer trips. Plans are prepaid and range from 1GB to 20GB. However, there’s no unlimited option, so heavier users may find themselves needing a top-up during their trip.
This eSIM is compatible with most modern smartphones that support eSIM (iPhone XS and newer, Pixel 4+, Galaxy S20+ and newer). The Airalo app also offers built-in tools to check usage, view plan details, and top up — a convenient feature for on-the-go travelers.
Airalo offers both data-only plans and a combo plan that includes data, local calls, and SMS. This makes it a convenient option if you want a local number to make calls or send texts during your trip. Hotspot sharing is supported across most plans, though speeds may be reduced if you're on a smaller data package or in remote areas.
Customer support is available through the app, although response times vary. Some users have reported minor connection delays in remote regions or during peak hours.
Key features:
Data plans for Costa Rica:
| Plan Duration | Price | Data |
| 15 Days | $15.50 | 2GB |
| 30 Days | $20 | 3GB |
| 30 Days | $30 | 5GB |
| 30 Days | $35 | 10GB |
| 30 Days | $45 | 20GB |
Pros:
Cons:
Saily, powered by Nord Security (the team behind NordVPN), is one of the newest eSIM providers in the market. It offers secure, reliable connectivity in Costa Rica through partnerships with major local networks. The brand focuses on data privacy and ease of use, making it a great choice for privacy-conscious travelers or remote workers.
Once you purchase a plan, your eSIM is delivered instantly via email and through the Saily app. Setup is quick — just scan the QR code or activate the plan from within the app. The interface is minimal and intuitive, with tools to monitor usage and manage active plans.
Speeds are generally reliable for everyday tasks like streaming, mapping, messaging, and hotspot use. Saily does not yet support 5G in Costa Rica.
Plans range from 1GB to 10GB and are valid for up to 30 days. While there’s no unlimited option, the pricing is competitive — especially for light or mid-range users who want secure browsing and reliable coverage without overpaying.
The eSIM is compatible with most current eSIM-ready devices (iPhone XR and newer, Pixel 4+, Samsung Galaxy S20+ or later). Saily also supports hotspot tethering on all Costa Rica plans.
Note that Saily’s plans are data-only, with no local number or SMS. If you need to call or text, use apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or FaceTime.
Customer support is available via in-app chat and email.
Key features:
Data plans for Costa Rica:
| Plan Duration | Price | Data |
| 30 Days | $18.99 | 3GB |
| 30 Days | $26.99 | 5GB |
| 30 Days | $43.99 | 10GB |
Pros:
Cons:
Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of the top eSIM providers for Costa Rica.
| Provider | Validity | Unlimited Data Offering | Lowest Price Availability | Setup/App Requirement | |
| Holafly |  | 1–90 days | Yes | $7.90 (unlimited) | No app required (QR code via email) |
| GigSky |  | 1–30 days | Yes | $6.99 (1GB) | QR code or app setup |
| Yesim |  | 7–30 days | Yes | $12 (3GB) | QR code or app setup |
| Nomad |  | 7–30 days | No | $8 (1GB) | App optional |
| Airalo |  | 7–30 days | No | $9.50 (1GB) | App or QR code |
| Saily |  | 30 days | No | $7.99 (1GB) | App required; QR code or manual setup |
We evaluated six top eSIM providers based on coverage in key tourist areas, pricing, data flexibility, and ease of setup. We prioritized providers offering strong 4G/LTE performance on networks like Liberty, with reliable hotspot support and responsive customer service. Unlimited data options, app-free activation, and competitive rates were also key factors in our selection.
Switching to an eSIM is one of the easiest ways to stay connected while traveling in Costa Rica. Whether you're heading to the rainforest, beach, or city, an eSIM gives you reliable mobile data without the hassle of physical SIM cards or roaming fees. Here’s what makes it a smart choice for modern travelers.
Before you buy an eSIM for Costa Rica, it’s important to make sure your phone is compatible. Most newer smartphones support eSIMs, but the steps to verify this vary slightly between iPhone and Android devices. Use the quick checks below to confirm if your device is ready.
For iPhone users:
For Android users:
Getting started with an eSIM is fast and simple. You can order one before your trip and activate it the moment you land in Costa Rica — no store visits or SIM swaps needed. Follow these steps to install and activate your eSIM in just a few minutes.
Your ideal choice depends on your travel style and data needs. Here's a quick breakdown of top providers to help you choose the best fit.
Holafly stands out for first-time eSIM users because it delivers unlimited data, works instantly after scanning a QR code, and doesn’t need an extra app to manage. Great for peace of mind on longer or remote-area trips.
Pro tip: Before you go, make sure you're fully prepared. In addition to choosing the right eSIM, check out our Costa Rica packing list to see what essentials you’ll need for every region and season.
Holafly is widely considered the best eSIM for Costa Rica, especially for travelers who want unlimited data, instant activation, and hassle-free setup. It connects to major local networks and you don’t need to download an app — just scan the QR code and you’re online.
Yes, travelers can buy local SIM cards in Costa Rica from providers like Kölbi, Claro, and Liberty. But if you prefer to skip the store visits and get connected instantly on arrival, Holafly’s eSIM is a more convenient option — offering unlimited data and easy setup with no physical SIM required.
Yes, Airalo offers working eSIM plans in Costa Rica and is a solid pick for light data users. Some travelers have reported mixed connection speeds. For smoother setup and unlimited data, Holafly is the stronger option — especially if you need reliable coverage throughout your trip.
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Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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