Staying connected in Costa Rica is essential for navigation, communication, and sharing your adventures. Buying a local SIM card can save you money on roaming charges and offer better data speeds.

This guide explains everything tourists need to know about Costa Rica SIM cards: where to buy them, what the rates are, how to choose the best plan, and important tips to stay connected hassle-free.

Why buy a local SIM card in Costa Rica?

Using your home carrier’s roaming plan can be expensive and unreliable. Local SIM cards offer:

  • Affordable data and call rates
  • Better network coverage across cities, beaches, and remote areas
  • Flexible prepaid plans with no contracts
  • Easy top-up options

For tourists planning to explore areas like Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, or the Nicoya Peninsula, a local SIM card ensures you stay online for maps, emergency calls, and social media sharing.

Major mobile providers in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has several reliable mobile network providers:

  • Kolbi (ICE): The state-owned company with the widest coverage, including remote areas. Best choice for reliability.
  • Movistar: A private provider with competitive plans, strong urban coverage, and good prices.
  • Claro: Another private provider with decent coverage, especially in cities and tourist areas.

Kolbi is usually recommended for tourists who need coverage beyond cities, while Movistar and Claro may offer better deals for city stays.

Where to buy a SIM card in Costa Rica

You can buy SIM cards at:

  • Airports (Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós Airport in Liberia) — convenient but often more expensive.
  • Official stores and kiosks of Kolbi, Movistar, and Claro are in shopping malls and city centers.
  • Supermarkets, convenience stores, and some gas stations — check for official packaging.
  • Always bring your passport for registration — it’s mandatory in Costa Rica to register prepaid SIMs.

Popular prepaid plans and rates

Most SIM cards come with prepaid plans that include data, calls, and texts. Here are typical options (prices in USD approximate):

Kolbi:

  • 1 GB data + calls/texts for around $10 (valid 7 days)
  • 3 GB data + calls/texts for $20 (valid 30 days)

Movistar:

  • 1.5 GB data + calls/texts for $12 (valid 7 days)
  • 4 GB data + calls/texts for $25 (valid 30 days)

Claro:

  • 2 GB data + calls/texts for $15 (valid 15 days)
  • 5 GB data + calls/texts for $30 (valid 30 days)

You can recharge easily online, at stores, or via apps. Plans often include unlimited social media usage on apps like WhatsApp or Facebook.

How to choose the best SIM card and plan

Consider:

  • Your travel itinerary (urban vs. remote areas)
  • Data usage (navigation, streaming, social apps)
  • Length of stay (short trip vs. month-long visit)

Budget

If you’re visiting only cities and beaches, Movistar or Claro might be cheaper. For exploring remote national parks and mountains, Kolbi’s coverage is more reliable.

Tips for activating and using your SIM card

  • Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with Costa Rican networks (GSM).
  • Insert the SIM and follow the provider’s instructions — activation usually takes minutes.
  • Register your SIM with your passport at the point of purchase.
  • Download apps from your provider (Kolbi, Movistar, Claro) to check balances and top up easily.
  • Use Wi-Fi when possible to save data.

What about eSIMs and international options?

Some newer phones support eSIMs, which allow you to buy and activate plans digitally without a physical SIM. Services like Airalo offer Costa Rica eSIM plans that can be purchased before arrival.

Alternatively, international SIM cards or roaming plans may work, but tend to be more expensive and less reliable than local SIMs.

Conclusion

Buying a local SIM card in Costa Rica is the smartest way for tourists to stay connected affordably and reliably. With providers like Kolbi, Movistar, and Claro offering a range of prepaid plans, you can choose the best option for your travel style. Remember to bring your passport, unlock your phone, and pick the provider that best fits your itinerary for smooth connectivity during your Costa Rica adventure.

Ready to stay connected in Costa Rica? Check the latest prepaid SIM deals and plan your trip worry-free!