Kölbi is among the leading mobile providers in Costa Rica. It offers local as well as international connectivity. The Kölbi SIM card has a very wide country network coverage, so if you’re a foreign tourist wishing to explore this very beautiful Central American country, it helps stay connected all through the journey!
This extensive guide discusses the important features of Kölbi and why it is a preferred choice for tourists visiting Costa Rica. We will discuss about Kölbi network coverage, speed, SIM options, SIM cost, SIM purchase location, activation, use, call/text fees, loading credit, useful codes, and so on.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about Kölbi
- Founded: 1963 (as part of ICE Group)
- Full Name: Kölbi Telecomunicaciones S.A.
- Services: Cellular service, internet, television, landline phones
- Subscribers: Around 3 million
- Coverage: Over 97% population coverage nationwide
- Stores/Agents: 130+ Kölbi stores, over 1,000 points of sale
As Costa Rica’s largest telecom provider, Kölbi offers comprehensive voice and data services across an extensive 4G LTE network reaching the vast majority of the population.
II. Why Kölbi When You’re Exploring Costa Rica – Coverage and Speed
Two key reasons Kölbi SIM cards make sense for traveling in Costa Rica are the provider’s excellent nationwide coverage and fast speeds:
1. Kölbi Network Coverage in Costa Rica
With over 97% population coverage, Kölbi offers extensive reach across Costa Rica. Their network spans the country thoroughly, including both major cities and remote areas.
You’ll have Kölbi signal even in top tourist destinations like Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and secluded beaches. This widespread coverage ensures you can stay connected wherever your travels take you.
2. Kölbi Speed
In addition to coverage, Kölbi also offers fast 4G LTE mobile internet to customers. Their network supports LTE-Advanced technology, capable of peak download speeds up to 300 Mbps in testing.
Real-world speeds vary by location and congestion, but are often in the 10-50 Mbps down range on Kölbi’s 4G network.
III. Best Kölbi SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
| Plan | Monthly Price (USD) | Includes |
| Dominio Prepago kölbi 1 | $8.24 | 2 GB Internet, 35 minutes, 30 SMS |
| Dominio Prepago kölbi 2 | $13.71 | 4 GB Internet, 50 minutes, 30 SMS |
| Dominio Prepago kölbi 3 | $20.70 | 5 GB Internet, 100 minutes, 30 SMS |
| kölbi SIM Turista | $18.00 | 100 minutes national calls, 5 GB Internet, 30 SMS |
Both options above include calling and texting capabilities as well.
IV. Is Kölbi eSIM Available?
Kölbi does offer eSIM support for compatible phones in Costa Rica. With a Kölbi eSIM profile installed on your phone’s embedded SIM, you can use Kölbi’s network across Costa Rica just like a physical SIM card.
Currently, iPhones XS or newer support eSIM in Costa Rica on Kölbi's network. Many newer Android models also have eSIM functionality.
To use a Kölbi eSIM, your phone must be unlocked and support eSIM profiles. Check your phone's settings to see if you have eSIM capability.
If so, you can purchase and install a Kölbi eSIM completely digitally for connectivity during your travels.
V. Where can You Buy a Kölbi SIM card and eSIM?
1. Where to Buy Kölbi SIM card
To purchase a physical Kölbi nano/micro SIM card:
- Kölbi stores – Find them in most major towns. Around 130 locations nationwide.
- Airport kiosks – Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose and Liberia Airport.
- Online – Order via the Kölbi website or Amazon for airport pickup.
- Supermarkets – Often sold at stores like Walmart, Masxmenos, Automercado.
- Shops/malls – Many corner shops, malls, hotels sell Kölbi SIMs.
Kölbi SIMs are widely available at authorized resellers. Prices start around $4-10 USD for prepaid tourist plans.
2. Where to Buy Kölbi eSIM
For a Kölbi eSIM, you must purchase in-person:
- Kölbi stores – Visit one of Kölbi’s retail locations in Costa Rica to purchase an eSIM.
- ICE agencies – Government telecom agencies authorized to sell Kölbi plans can provide eSIM activation.
As an alternative, costaricaesim.com provides convenient eSIM plans that run on the Kölbi network. Our online purchases and activations allow travelers to stay connected without a store visit.
VI. Kölbi SIM Card Activation Process
There are three simple ways to activate your new Kölbi prepaid SIM card:
- Open the Kölbi mobile app on your phone.
- Send an SMS message to 888 with your activation code.
- Call *888# from your phone.
The activation method you use will depend on the prepaid package purchased. Full instructions are included with your Kölbi SIM card.
VII. Kölbi Call & SMS Rates
Here are the call and text rates to be aware of with Kölbi prepaid SIM cards:
- Local calls – $0.10 USD per minute
- Calls to USA/Canada – $0.50 USD per minute
- SMS – $0.05 USD per text
- Data – Packages from $4 USD (1GB)
Rates are quite reasonable, especially for local Costa Rica calls. With prepaid SIMs, you only pay for what you use. Additional data packages available for purchase if needed.
VIII. How Can You Top-up Kölbi SIM Cards?
When your prepaid credit or data runs low, you’ll want to top-up your Kölbi SIM. There are a few ways to add more funds:
- Kölbi app – Instantly add credit/data via app.
- Kölbi stores – Visit store and top up in person.
- Vouchers – Enter recharge code from voucher purchased at store.
- Online banking – Local CR banks allow transfer to Kölbi numbers.
- Kiosks – Load credit at self-service recharge kiosks.
1. Other Main Local Mobile Operators
While Kölbi makes for a smart choice for connectivity in Costa Rica, alternatives operators worth considering for tourists include:
- Claro: Owned by Mexico-based América Móvil. Provides competitive call and data rates. Sells prepaid SIMs.
- Liberty: Excellent coverage across the country. Recommended for reliable service. Prepaid SIMs available.
It's a good idea to compare prepaid plans and coverage maps from Kolbi, Claro and Liberty to identify the best network for your needs. However, Kölbi typically offers one of the most robust and stable networks in Costa Rica.
An easier way for Costa Rica travellers is buying an eSIM plan from costaricaesim.com
GIGAGO, a leading provider in Costa Rica, recommends an easier solution for travelers from Costa Rica: Purchasing an eSIM plan from costaricaesim.com. Once you purchase a plan, you’ll receive an email with a QR code for activation. By scanning this QR code on your device, you can easily connect to the fast network without the hassle of switching physical SIM cards. This seamless process allows you to have cellular access while on the move, making it a convenient and hassle-free solution.
IX. FAQs about Kölbi SIM Cards
Does Kölbi offer monthly plans?
Yes, Kölbi has postpaid contracts for residents. But prepaid SIMs are the better tourist option.
Can I use Kölbi SIM across Central America?
Kölbi SIMs only provide service within Costa Rica. Roaming is possible but expensive.
How long does a Kölbi SIM card last?
Prepaid SIMs are valid for 7-14 days depending on package. Data/credit lasts as long as balance allows.
How do I check my data usage?
Dial *140# to check remaining high-speed data balance. Or view in Kölbi app.
How can I contact Kölbi support?
Dial 1193 from your Kölbi phone or reach them via Facebook Messenger.
X. Final Words
The best method of remaining connected throughout Costa Rica is through the Kölbi SIM card that has great coverage and speed appropriate for travel purposes. Prepaid tourist SIM cards offered by them are economical.
With resilient network, which covers almost all Costa Rica with ease, Kölbi will allow you to move without a break and share your sweetest photos anywhere. Pura Vida!
