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eSIM Costa Rica

Best eSIM for Costa Rica from €5.99 – lowest prices, instant activation on Claro & Telefonica. Keep your WhatsApp number, no contract.

Choose your Mobile Data eSIM Costa Rica

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1
Total 10GB · 30 days
€46.99
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4.7· 158 reviews
10GB · 30 days€46.99
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eSIM Features

eSIM Specifications for Costa Rica

Works In

Costa Rica

Plan Type

Data only

Hotspot / tethering

Unlimited

NetworksBest coverage
ClaroTelefonica
eKYC (ID Verification)

Not Required

Activation Policy

The validity period starts when the eSIM connects to any supported network.

Network & coverage

Which network does your eSIM use in Costa Rica?

Your eSIM connects automatically to the strongest available partner network – the same masts the locals use.

  • ClaroPartner network
  • TelefonicaPartner network
  • Automatic network selection

    Always the best available signal, with no manual switching.

  • 4G/LTE & 5G

    Fast mobile internet wherever the network supports it.

  • Reliable coverage

    A stable connection in cities and the most-visited regions.

Actual speed and coverage depend on location, device and network load.

Data usage

How much data do you need in Costa Rica?

Typical estimates for everyday apps — pick the right package without guessing.

  • Google Maps30 min Google Maps± 20 MB
  • YouTube30 min YouTube (480p)± 250 MB
  • Spotify1 hr Spotify± 120 MB
  • Instagram15 min Instagram / TikTok± 300 MB
  • WhatsApp20 min WhatsApp video call± 100 MB
  • Uber30 min Uber± 10 MB
  • Netflix30 min Netflix (HD)± 700 MB
  • Gmail50 emails (no attachments)± 10 MB

Light user

Maps, WhatsApp and email — online when you need it.

Recommended1–3 GB / week
See packages
Popular

Everyday user

Plus social media, music streaming and sharing photos.

Recommended5–10 GB / month
See packages

Streamer & hotspot

Videos, video calls and keeping your laptop or tablet online.

Recommended20 GB+ or Unlimited
See packages

All figures are estimates. Actual usage depends on your device, app settings and habits.

Activation

Activate your Costa Rica eSIM in 3 steps

Ready in minutes — no physical SIM card needed.

ImageActivate your Costa Rica eSIM in 3 steps
  1. Buy a plan

    QR code instantly by email

  2. Install the eSIM

    Scan the QR code at home over Wi‑Fi

  3. Get online

    turn on data roaming in Costa Rica

Setup takes just 2 minutes: iPhone Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM, Android Network & internet → SIMs. Your plan’s validity starts on first use, not at purchase.

Is your device eSIM‑ready? Check compatibility

How to activate the eSIM on iPhone (iOS)
  1. Connect your iPhone to Wi‑Fi and open Settings.
  2. Tap CellularAdd eSIMUse QR Code.
  3. Scan the QR code from your eSIMFOX email. Or choose Enter Details Manually and paste the SM‑DP+ address and activation code.
  4. Name the plan, e.g. “eSIMFOX Costa Rica”, and keep your main SIM as the default line for calls.
  5. Only on arrival: select the profile, Turn On This Line and enable Data Roaming.
How to activate the eSIM on Android (Samsung, Pixel & co.)
  1. Connect your phone to Wi‑Fi and open Settings.
  2. Go to Network & internetSIMs (Samsung: ConnectionsSIM manager) and tap Add eSIM.
  3. Choose Scan QR code and scan the code from your eSIMFOX email — or enter the activation details manually.
  4. Confirm the profile download and name it, e.g. “eSIMFOX Costa Rica”.
  5. Only on arrival: turn on the eSIM profile, set it as your mobile data SIM and enable data roaming for it.

Exact menu names may vary slightly by phone model and Android version. For a full step‑by‑step guide by device, see our eSIM activation guide.

Your benefits

Why choose an eSIM for Costa Rica?

No roaming charges

Roaming charges can add up quickly. Get a prepaid data plan for Costa Rica & stay in control of your phone bill.

Connect in a few taps

Activate your eSIM before your flight — your data will be ready to use when you land.

Flexible plans

Choose from several affordable data plans for Costa Rica. Get as much or as little data as you need.

One eSIM for all travel

Add new destinations to your existing eSIM through the eSIMFOX dashboard — no new eSIMs needed.

Comparison

eSIM or local SIM card for Costa Rica?

Both get you online – here's how they differ for your trip.

Comparison: an eSIMFOX eSIM versus a local SIM card in Costa Rica
Criterion RecommendedeSIMFOX eSIMLocal SIM card in Costa Rica
Available from Before you leave – QR code instantly by emailOnly on arrival – at the airport or a shop
Setup Scan the QR code, active in 2 minutesQueue up, often with ID registration
Your home number Stays active (Dual-SIM) – reachable for SMSSIM swap needed – number offline
Cost Fixed package price, no roaming feesVariable, sometimes a tourist markup
Top up Anytime in your dashboard, no new SIMOnly on-site in a shop or app
Ideal forTravelers with an eSIM-capable phonePhones without eSIM or very long stays

For most travelers the eSIM is the faster and cheaper choice – with no waiting at the airport.

Scroll the table sideways to see all columns.

The best eSIM for Costa Rica pairs the most reliable local networks with flexible plans. eSIMFOX connects you to the Claro and Movistar networks, with plans from 1 GB to 50 GB, activation in 2 minutes and a fixed price from €5.99.

eSIM Guide

Everything about eSIM Costa Rica

Everything you need to know to stay connected — how a prepaid eSIM keeps you online from the moment you land.

Buy Prepaid eSIM Costa Rica - Ready Before You Land

Planning a trip to Costa Rica's lush rainforests and pristine beaches? A prepaid eSIM for Costa Rica is the smartest way to stay connected without the hassle of physical SIM cards. Purchase your eSIM online before departure and receive instant digital delivery to your email. Installation takes just minutes, meaning you'll have reliable 4G connectivity the moment your plane touches down at Juan Santamaría International Airport. Most prepaid plans offer flexible data packages ranging from 1GB to 20GB, perfect for mapping your journey through Arenal Volcano National Park or sharing photos of your wildlife encounters in Manuel Antonio. Choose a plan that matches your stay duration and enjoy the convenience of managing everything through a simple app.

Best eSIM for Tourists in Costa Rica - Coverage and Reliability

When exploring Costa Rica's diverse landscapes from the cloud forests of Monteverde to the coastal paradise of Tamarindo, reliable connectivity becomes essential. The best eSIM for tourists in Costa Rica offers comprehensive coverage across the country, including remote areas like Tortuguero and the Osa Peninsula. With eSIMFOX, you receive a single eSIM that can be used across multiple countries. For instance, after purchasing an eSIM for Costa Rica, you can easily add data packages for other destinations like Turkey, USA, Spain, etc. on the same eSIM. Premium providers connect you to Costa Rica's top networks, ensuring strong 4G signals even in challenging terrains. Tourist-friendly plans typically include hotspot/tethering capabilities, allowing you to share your connection with travel companions or other devices. For peace of mind while zip-lining through the canopy or relaxing on the Caribbean coast, choose an eSIM with 24/7 customer support.

How to Get eSIM in Costa Rica with Seamless Activation

Setting up an eSIM for your Costa Rica adventure couldn't be simpler. First, confirm your device's eSIM compatibility—most recent iPhone models (XS and newer), Samsung Galaxy (S20+ and above), Google Pixel (3 and newer), and many other smartphones support this technology. To get an eSIM in Costa Rica, you have two main options: purchase online before your trip or buy upon arrival. Online purchase is recommended as you'll receive a QR code instantly, which you can scan to activate your plan before landing. If you prefer waiting until arrival, some providers offer eSIM services at kiosks in Juan Santamaría International Airport. The activation process takes just minutes—scan the QR code, follow the on-screen instructions, and you're connected to local networks without physical SIM swapping. This seamless setup ensures you're ready to navigate to your accommodation or share your arrival with loved ones without delay.

eSIM Compatibility in Costa Rica - Devices and Networks

Before securing your data plan for Costa Rica, checking eSIM compatibility is crucial for a smooth digital experience. Most modern smartphones support eSIM technology, including iPhone models from XS onward, Samsung Galaxy S20+ and newer, Google Pixel 3 and above, and select models from Huawei, Motorola, and other manufacturers. In Costa Rica, eSIMs function perfectly with major network providers like Kölbi, Movistar, and Claro, delivering reliable 4G coverage throughout popular tourist destinations from San José to Monteverde, Tamarindo, and Manuel Antonio. Device compatibility can be verified through your phone's settings menu or the manufacturer's website. For iPhone users, navigate to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan to confirm eSIM functionality. With the right device, your eSIM Costa Rica for iPhone or Android will activate instantly upon scanning the provided QR code, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards or hunting for local shops upon arrival.

Best eSIM for Travel to Costa Rica - 7-Day and 30-Day Plans

Choosing the best eSIM for travel to Costa Rica depends largely on your trip duration and data needs. For week-long adventures exploring the Arenal Volcano or Manuel Antonio National Park, 7-day eSIM plans for Costa Rica offer the perfect balance of data and value. These typically provide 3-10GB of high-speed data—sufficient for navigation, social media sharing, and occasional video calls. For extended stays or digital nomads setting up in places like Santa Teresa or Puerto Viejo, 30-day eSIM plans for Costa Rica deliver more substantial data allowances of 10-20GB with the option to top up if needed. With eSIMFOX, you receive a single eSIM that can be used across multiple countries. After purchasing an eSIM for Costa Rica, you can easily add data packages for other destinations like Turkey, USA, Spain, etc. on the same eSIM. Both short and long-term plans support hotspot functionality, allowing you to share your connection with laptops or travel companions. Secure your digital connectivity now and focus on experiencing Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity and pura vida lifestyle without connectivity concerns.

Cheap eSIM Plans Costa Rica - Budget-Friendly Options for Travelers

Traveling to Costa Rica doesn't mean breaking the bank on mobile data. Several providers offer cheap eSIM plans for Costa Rica that deliver excellent value without compromising on quality or coverage. Budget-friendly options typically start around $10-15 for 1-3GB plans, perfect for travelers who mainly need basic navigation, messaging, and occasional social media updates while exploring attractions like Monteverde Cloud Forest or Tamarindo Beach. Mid-range plans offering 5-10GB of data generally cost $20-30, providing ample connectivity for photo uploads, video calls, and extensive navigation throughout your journey. These affordable plans connect to premium local networks, ensuring reliable 4G coverage across tourist hotspots and major cities. Most budget options include hotspot capabilities, allowing you to share your connection with travel companions or other devices. For maximum savings, look for providers offering regional plans that cover not just Costa Rica but neighboring countries like Panama or Nicaragua if your itinerary includes multiple destinations. Compare data validity periods against your travel schedule to ensure you're only paying for connectivity during your actual stay.

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