{"id":3522,"date":"2023-11-21T10:20:39","date_gmt":"2023-11-21T10:20:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/?page_id=3522"},"modified":"2024-05-10T07:12:31","modified_gmt":"2024-05-10T07:12:31","slug":"sim-cards","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/sim-cards\/","title":{"rendered":"Costa Rica SIM Cards: Updated Prices and Where to Buy"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Are you traveling to Costa Rica and want a prepaid SIM card for your phone?\u00a0Getting a local SIM to remain reachable but without high international roaming rates makes this possible.\u00a0While using Costa Rica SIM cards is relatively new, it offers instant and reliable communication through the latest generation 4G\/LTE network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This article will provide all the information on acquiring a Costa Rica SIM card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/2.jpg\" alt=\"costa rica sim cards feature picture\" class=\"wp-image-3558\" srcset=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/2.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/2-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of Contents<\/h2><nav><div><div><a href=\"#i-should-i-buy-a-new-sim-card-for-my-costa-rica-trip\">I. Should I Buy a New SIM Card for My Costa Rica Trip?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#ii-costa-rica-sim-card-types-which-one-is-the-best-for-tourists\">II. Costa Rica SIM Card Types \u2013 Which One is the Best for Tourists?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#iii-how-much-data-is-enough-for-a-prepaid-tourist-sim-card-for-costa-rica\">III. How Much Data is Enough for a Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for Costa Rica?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#iv-how-much-does-a-costa-rica-sim-card-cost\">IV. How Much Does a Costa Rica SIM Card Cost?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#v-costaricaesim-com-alternative-to-physical-sim-cards\">V. Costaricaesim.com &#8211; Alternative to Physical SIM Cards<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#vi-where-to-buy-a-costa-rica-sim-card\">VI. Where to Buy a Costa Rica SIM Card?<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#vii-how-to-use-costa-rica-sim-cards\">VII. How to Use Costa Rica SIM Cards<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#viii-best-mobile-operators-for-costa-rica-sim-cards\">VIII. Best Mobile Operators for Costa Rica SIM Cards<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#ix-tips-for-saving-data-for-costa-rica-sim-card\">IX. Tips for Saving Data for Costa Rica SIM Card<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#x-fa-qs\">X. FAQs<\/a><\/div><div><a href=\"#xi-final-words\">XI. Final Words<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-should-i-buy-a-new-sim-card-for-my-costa-rica-trip\">I. Should I Buy a New SIM Card for My Costa Rica Trip?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/31.jpg\" alt=\"Should I Buy a New SIM Card for My Costa Rica Trip?\" class=\"wp-image-3602\" srcset=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/31.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/31-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/31-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/31-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/31-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When traveling abroad, using your regular home SIM card can lead to extremely high roaming fees for calls, texts, and data. Renting a SIM card in your destination is often the cheapest and most convenient option. Here are some key benefits of getting a local Costa Rica SIM card:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"save-money\">1. Save Money<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Rather than paying high roaming charges from your provider in your homeland, a Costa Rica SIM will let you pay low local rates.\u00a0You may save hundreds of dollars during the trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"better-coverage\">2. Better Coverage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Costa Rican providers like Kolbi and Movistar have extensive networks that reach even remote areas. A local SIM ensures you get strong coverage around the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"unlimited-data\">3. Unlimited Data<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most Costa Rica SIM cards come with unlimited data plans. This allows you to use maps, stream media, and stay connected hassle-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ii-costa-rica-sim-card-types-which-one-is-the-best-for-tourists\">II. Costa Rica SIM Card Types \u2013 Which One is the Best for Tourists?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/Costa-Rica.jpg\" alt=\"Costa Rica SIM Card Types \u2013 Which One is the Best for Tourists\" class=\"wp-image-3603\" srcset=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/Costa-Rica.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/Costa-Rica-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/Costa-Rica-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/Costa-Rica-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/Costa-Rica-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When buying a Costa Rican SIM, you\u2019ll come across two main options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"physical-sim-card\">1. Physical SIM Card<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a standard SIM card that goes into your unlocked phone. Popular providers like Kolbi and Movistar issue physical SIMs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Easy to obtain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Works on any unlocked phone<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Must go to the store to get SIM<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"e-sim\">2. eSIM from costaricaesim.com<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An eSIM is a digital SIM downloaded to your phone. eSIM provider like <strong>costaricaesim.com<\/strong> by GIGAGO offer eSIMs for Costa Rica.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>More convenient<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep your number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Limited phone compatibility<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Only data, no local calling<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For most travelers, a physical SIM card is the better choice. It gives you complete cell service, and you can easily get it upon arrival at the airport or local provider shops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"iii-how-much-data-is-enough-for-a-prepaid-tourist-sim-card-for-costa-rica\">III. How Much Data is Enough for a Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for Costa Rica?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/34.jpg\" alt=\"How Much Data is Enough for a Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for Costa Rica?\" class=\"wp-image-3604\" srcset=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/34.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/34-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/34-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/34-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/34-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Costa Rica SIM cards usually offer data-only plans or packages with calling, texts, and data. For a short 1-2 week trip, most travelers find <strong>5-10GB<\/strong> of data is sufficient. This allows you to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Use Google Maps for navigation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Look up directions and opening hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share photos and videos on social media<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stream some music and light video<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay in touch via messaging apps<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-ggg-custom-block-18XKgQ wp-block-lazyblock-ggg-custom-block\"><div class=\"ggg-custom-shortcode gigago-block-yellow\">\n    <div class=\"ggg-shortcode-content\">\n        <p>If you'll be staying longer or using more data-intensive apps, go for a 10-15GB plan. For heavy data users who stream HD video, 30GB plans are also available.<\/p>    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"iv-how-much-does-a-costa-rica-sim-card-cost\">IV. How Much Does a Costa Rica SIM Card Cost?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/35.jpg\" alt=\"How Much Does a Costa Rica SIM Card Cost?\" class=\"wp-image-3605\" srcset=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/35.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/35-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/35-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/35-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/35-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is the information about SIM card costs in Costa Rica presented in bullet points:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>The main cell phone providers in Costa Rica are K\u00f6lbi, Liberty, and Claro.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>K\u00f6lbi charges 1,000 colones for their SIM card.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Liberty charges 1,500 colones for a SIM card.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Claro&#8217;s SIM card ranges in price from:<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>1,000 colones if you don&#8217;t add money when buying<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>2,500 colones if you do add money when buying<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In general, most SIM cards will cost between 1,000 to 2,500 colones.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In US dollars, the cost is around:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>$1.50 for a SIM card at the lower end of the price range<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>$3.75 at the higher end of the price range<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>So picking up a prepaid SIM card only requires a small investment of 1,000-2,500 colones or around $1.50-$3.75.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"v-costaricaesim-com-alternative-to-physical-sim-cards\">V. Costaricaesim.com &#8211; Alternative to Physical SIM Cards<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have an iPhone or newer smartphone model that supports eSIM, you can opt for a digital eSIM plan for Costa Rica instead of a physical nano-SIM card. eSIMs are installed directly on your device &#8211; no need to swap SIM cards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Benefits of Using an eSIM for Costa Rica from <strong>costaricaesim.com<\/strong> by <strong>GIGAGO<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Keep your original phone number activated instead of needing a Costa Rica local number.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Easy online purchase and installation before travel by downloading the eSIM profile from the email received after ordering.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suitable for dual SIM phone users who don&#8217;t want to remove their primary SIM.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"plan-that-may-interest-you\">Plan that may interest you<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-cta-show-product-1tkOSi wp-block-lazyblock-cta-show-product\"><div class=\"cta-show-products mb-6\">\n    <div class=\"row vnb-esim-rows\" data-elementor-columns=\"3\" data-elementor-columns-tablet=\"2\" data-elementor-columns-mobile=\"1\">\n                                                <div class=\"column-item\">\n                    <div class=\"vnb-cta-show-product-item\">\n                        <div class=\"product-info\">\n                            <div class=\"product-transition\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/vnb-data\/media\/flag\/cr.png';\" alt=\"Costa Rica eSIM 7 Days Plan\">\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"product-caption\">\n                                <div class=\"country\">Costa Rica eSIM 7 Days Plan<\/div>\n                                <div class=\"from-price\">\n                                    <span class=\"title-price\" style=\"text-transform: capitalize;\">\n                                        From                                    <\/span>\n                                    <span class=\"text-price\">\n                                        &#36;9.90                                    <\/span>\n                                <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"icon\">\n                            <svg width=\"40\" height=\"40\" viewBox=\"0 0 40 40\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                <path d=\"M31.25 21.25L6.25 21.25C5.91848 21.25 5.60054 21.1183 5.36612 20.8839C5.1317 20.6495 5 20.3315 5 20C5 19.6685 5.1317 19.3505 5.36612 19.1161C5.60054 18.8817 5.91848 18.75 6.25 18.75L31.25 18.75C31.5815 18.75 31.8995 18.8817 32.1339 19.1161C32.3683 19.3505 32.5 19.6685 32.5 20C32.5 20.3315 32.3683 20.6495 32.1339 20.8839C31.8995 21.1183 31.5815 21.25 31.25 21.25Z\" fill=\"black\" \/>\n                                <path d=\"M30.7303 19.9984L20.3628 9.63342C20.128 9.3987 19.9962 9.08036 19.9962 8.74842C19.9962 8.41648 20.128 8.09813 20.3628 7.86342C20.5975 7.6287 20.9158 7.49684 21.2478 7.49684C21.5797 7.49684 21.898 7.6287 22.1328 7.86342L33.3828 19.1134C33.4992 19.2295 33.5915 19.3675 33.6545 19.5193C33.7176 19.6712 33.75 19.834 33.75 19.9984C33.75 20.1628 33.7176 20.3256 33.6545 20.4775C33.5915 20.6294 33.4992 20.7673 33.3828 20.8834L22.1328 32.1334C21.8981 32.3681 21.5797 32.5 21.2478 32.5C20.9158 32.5 20.5975 32.3681 20.3628 32.1334C20.1281 31.8987 19.9962 31.5804 19.9962 31.2484C19.9962 30.9165 20.1281 30.5981 20.3628 30.3634L30.7303 19.9984Z\" fill=\"black\" \/>\n                            <\/svg>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/esim\/costa-rica-7-days\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"column-item\">\n                    <div class=\"vnb-cta-show-product-item\">\n                        <div class=\"product-info\">\n                            <div class=\"product-transition\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/vnb-data\/media\/flag\/cr.png';\" alt=\"Costa Rica eSIM 15 Days Plan\">\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"product-caption\">\n                                <div class=\"country\">Costa Rica eSIM 15 Days Plan<\/div>\n                                <div class=\"from-price\">\n                                    <span class=\"title-price\" style=\"text-transform: capitalize;\">\n                                        From                                    <\/span>\n                                    <span class=\"text-price\">\n                                        &#36;18.90                                    <\/span>\n                                <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"icon\">\n                            <svg width=\"40\" height=\"40\" viewBox=\"0 0 40 40\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                <path d=\"M31.25 21.25L6.25 21.25C5.91848 21.25 5.60054 21.1183 5.36612 20.8839C5.1317 20.6495 5 20.3315 5 20C5 19.6685 5.1317 19.3505 5.36612 19.1161C5.60054 18.8817 5.91848 18.75 6.25 18.75L31.25 18.75C31.5815 18.75 31.8995 18.8817 32.1339 19.1161C32.3683 19.3505 32.5 19.6685 32.5 20C32.5 20.3315 32.3683 20.6495 32.1339 20.8839C31.8995 21.1183 31.5815 21.25 31.25 21.25Z\" fill=\"black\" \/>\n                                <path d=\"M30.7303 19.9984L20.3628 9.63342C20.128 9.3987 19.9962 9.08036 19.9962 8.74842C19.9962 8.41648 20.128 8.09813 20.3628 7.86342C20.5975 7.6287 20.9158 7.49684 21.2478 7.49684C21.5797 7.49684 21.898 7.6287 22.1328 7.86342L33.3828 19.1134C33.4992 19.2295 33.5915 19.3675 33.6545 19.5193C33.7176 19.6712 33.75 19.834 33.75 19.9984C33.75 20.1628 33.7176 20.3256 33.6545 20.4775C33.5915 20.6294 33.4992 20.7673 33.3828 20.8834L22.1328 32.1334C21.8981 32.3681 21.5797 32.5 21.2478 32.5C20.9158 32.5 20.5975 32.3681 20.3628 32.1334C20.1281 31.8987 19.9962 31.5804 19.9962 31.2484C19.9962 30.9165 20.1281 30.5981 20.3628 30.3634L30.7303 19.9984Z\" fill=\"black\" \/>\n                            <\/svg>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/esim\/costa-rica-15-days\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                                                            <div class=\"column-item\">\n                    <div class=\"vnb-cta-show-product-item\">\n                        <div class=\"product-info\">\n                            <div class=\"product-transition\">\n                                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/vnb-data\/media\/flag\/cr.png';\" alt=\"Costa Rica eSIM 30 Days Plan\">\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"product-caption\">\n                                <div class=\"country\">Costa Rica eSIM 30 Days Plan<\/div>\n                                <div class=\"from-price\">\n                                    <span class=\"title-price\" style=\"text-transform: capitalize;\">\n                                        From                                    <\/span>\n                                    <span class=\"text-price\">\n                                        &#36;24.50                                    <\/span>\n                                <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <div class=\"icon\">\n                            <svg width=\"40\" height=\"40\" viewBox=\"0 0 40 40\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                <path d=\"M31.25 21.25L6.25 21.25C5.91848 21.25 5.60054 21.1183 5.36612 20.8839C5.1317 20.6495 5 20.3315 5 20C5 19.6685 5.1317 19.3505 5.36612 19.1161C5.60054 18.8817 5.91848 18.75 6.25 18.75L31.25 18.75C31.5815 18.75 31.8995 18.8817 32.1339 19.1161C32.3683 19.3505 32.5 19.6685 32.5 20C32.5 20.3315 32.3683 20.6495 32.1339 20.8839C31.8995 21.1183 31.5815 21.25 31.25 21.25Z\" fill=\"black\" \/>\n                                <path d=\"M30.7303 19.9984L20.3628 9.63342C20.128 9.3987 19.9962 9.08036 19.9962 8.74842C19.9962 8.41648 20.128 8.09813 20.3628 7.86342C20.5975 7.6287 20.9158 7.49684 21.2478 7.49684C21.5797 7.49684 21.898 7.6287 22.1328 7.86342L33.3828 19.1134C33.4992 19.2295 33.5915 19.3675 33.6545 19.5193C33.7176 19.6712 33.75 19.834 33.75 19.9984C33.75 20.1628 33.7176 20.3256 33.6545 20.4775C33.5915 20.6294 33.4992 20.7673 33.3828 20.8834L22.1328 32.1334C21.8981 32.3681 21.5797 32.5 21.2478 32.5C20.9158 32.5 20.5975 32.3681 20.3628 32.1334C20.1281 31.8987 19.9962 31.5804 19.9962 31.2484C19.9962 30.9165 20.1281 30.5981 20.3628 30.3634L30.7303 19.9984Z\" fill=\"black\" \/>\n                            <\/svg>\n                        <\/div>\n                        <a href=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/esim\/costa-rica-30-days\/\"><\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                        <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-ggg-custom-block-Z1UwzmB wp-block-lazyblock-ggg-custom-block\"><div class=\"ggg-custom-shortcode gigago-block-red\">\n    <div class=\"ggg-shortcode-content\">\n        <p>Saves the hassle of finding a SIM card retail store in Costa Rica and allows activating data access anywhere in the country. Round-the-clock support from costaricaesim.com are available should any issues arise during purchase or installation of the Costa Rica eSIM plan.<\/p>    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"vi-where-to-buy-a-costa-rica-sim-card\">VI. Where to Buy a Costa Rica SIM Card?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can purchase a Costa Rica SIM card at:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"airport\">1. Airport<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are booths at Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose where you can buy SIMs from Kolbi, Movistar, and Claro. Prices are reasonable and you&#8217;ll have it set up upon arrival.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2024\/05\/Juan-Santamaria-International-Airport-SJO-in-San-Jose-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose\" class=\"wp-image-4025\" width=\"840\" height=\"560\" srcset=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2024\/05\/Juan-Santamaria-International-Airport-SJO-in-San-Jose-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2024\/05\/Juan-Santamaria-International-Airport-SJO-in-San-Jose-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2024\/05\/Juan-Santamaria-International-Airport-SJO-in-San-Jose-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2024\/05\/Juan-Santamaria-International-Airport-SJO-in-San-Jose-510x340.jpg 510w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2024\/05\/Juan-Santamaria-International-Airport-SJO-in-San-Jose.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sjoairport.com\/?lang=en\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.sjoairport.com\/?lang=en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Source<\/a><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"provider-stores\">2. Provider Stores<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Major cities have dedicated shops for the various providers where you can get SIM cards. Look for locations like <strong>Kolbi<\/strong>, <strong>Movistar<\/strong>, and <strong>Claro<\/strong>. Bring your passport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mall-kiosks\">3. Mall Kiosks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In malls and shopping centers, you\u2019ll often find kiosks selling SIM cards from multiple providers. They&#8217;ll help you activate it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"online\">4. Online<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ordering online in advance can be convenient if you want it ready upon arrival. Companies like <strong>Kolbi<\/strong> allow online purchase and airport pickup.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-ggg-custom-block-Z1pI8Xh wp-block-lazyblock-ggg-custom-block\"><div class=\"ggg-custom-shortcode gigago-block-blue\">\n    <div class=\"ggg-shortcode-content\">\n        <p>For the best deals, buy from official mobile carrier stores or kiosks. Avoid street vendors selling SIMs as these may be fraudulent.<\/p>    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p><em>Get more insights on <a href=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/airport-sim-card\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"3517\">Buying a SIM card at Costa Rica Airports: #1 Definitive Guide<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"vii-how-to-use-costa-rica-sim-cards\">VII. How to Use Costa Rica SIM Cards<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Using your Costa Rican SIM card is easy. Follow these steps when you get it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Activate the SIM<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>At the store, airport, or kiosk, they can activate the SIM for you. If not, call the provider&#8217;s hotline to activate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Insert into Phone<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Turn off your phone, pop out your usual SIM, and insert the Costa Rica SIM. Turn your phone back on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Configure APN Settings<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Under network settings, manually enter the provider&#8217;s APN details. This allows mobile data usage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Recharge as Needed<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When your data or minutes run low, purchase top-up cards from stores around Costa Rica to recharge the SIM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Turn Off Data Roaming<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To avoid unintended roaming charges, disable data roaming on your phone. Enable WiFi calling if available.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-ggg-custom-block-ZyswsN wp-block-lazyblock-ggg-custom-block\"><div class=\"ggg-custom-shortcode gigago-block-yellow\">\n    <div class=\"ggg-shortcode-content\">\n        <p>Follow your provider's setup instructions to get started. Once activated, the SIM will give you local Costa Rican cell service.<\/p>    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"viii-best-mobile-operators-for-costa-rica-sim-cards\">VIII. Best Mobile Operators for Costa Rica SIM Cards<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/top-mo-costarica.jpg\" alt=\"best costa rica's mobile operators\" class=\"wp-image-3607\" srcset=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/top-mo-costarica.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/top-mo-costarica-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/top-mo-costarica-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/top-mo-costarica-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/top-mo-costarica-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The top Costa Rican mobile networks compatible with visitor SIM cards are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kolbi\">1. Kolbi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Owned by the state electricity and telecom company ICE, Kolbi has excellent nationwide 4G and 3G coverage. Their tourist SIMs start at $12 for 5GB.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"movistar\">2. Liberty<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This brand has fast 4G service across Costa Rica. Their prepaid SIMs begin around $25 for 8GB data. ATMs sell top-up cards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"claro\">3. Claro<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Claro has a solid LTE network and competitively priced tourist SIMs. Speeds are quick and reliable even in remote zones.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-ggg-custom-block-1cjV5s wp-block-lazyblock-ggg-custom-block\"><div class=\"ggg-custom-shortcode gigago-block-yellow\">\n    <div class=\"ggg-shortcode-content\">\n        <p>You can\u2019t go wrong with the major providers. For rural areas, Kolbi tends to have superior infrastructure. Compare rates and coverage maps before you buy.<\/p>    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-ggg-custom-block-ZNigbF wp-block-lazyblock-ggg-custom-block\"><div class=\"ggg-custom-shortcode gigago-block-blue\">\n    <div class=\"ggg-shortcode-content\">\n        <p>Not sure which Costa Rica mobile operator to choose for your up coming trip? Check our article\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/operators\/\">Mobile Operators in Costa Rica: Which One is the Best?<\/a> to get more useful information!<\/p>    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ix-tips-for-saving-data-for-costa-rica-sim-card\">IX. Tips for Saving Data for Costa Rica SIM Card<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/29.jpg\" alt=\"How to save data in costa rica\" class=\"wp-image-3610\" srcset=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/29.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/29-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/29-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/29-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/11\/29-510x340.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>To reduce your data usage while traveling:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Connect to free WiFi whenever available in hotels, cafes, etc.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Download offline Google Maps of the area on WiFi before venturing out<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Put your phone on airplane mode when not in use<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disable auto app updates and cloud backups<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Close background apps not in use<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lower video resolution settings while streaming<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disable auto video play on apps like Facebook or Twitter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"lazyblock-cta-description-1vGWXJ wp-block-lazyblock-cta-description\">\n<div class=\"cta-description mb-6\">\n    <h2 class=\"title\"><span>GiGaGo Partner<\/span> &amp; Enjoy your Benefit<\/h2>\n    <div class=\"content\"><p>Skip the Roaming Surprise with costaricaesim.com<\/p><\/div>\n    <div class=\"link-shop\">\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/\">\n            Buy my eSIM        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p><em>Read also: <a href=\"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/cell-phone\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"3952\">Using A Cell Phone In Costa Rica \u2013 How Can I Do It?<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"x-fa-qs\">X. FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700451400596\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can I use my regular SIM card from back home in Costa Rica?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, but you&#8217;ll pay very expensive roaming rates. Purchasing a local SIM is cheaper.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700451405632\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can I get a SIM card at Costa Rica airport?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, there are SIM card desks in the arrivals area of the airports. Major providers like Kolbi and Movistar are available.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700451414824\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Do I need to show ID to buy a Costa Rica SIM?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, you&#8217;ll need to provide your passport as identification when purchasing a SIM.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700451433243\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Are data speeds fast on Costa Rican networks?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, 4G LTE service is widely available and fast. Speeds are quick enough for streaming and video calls.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1700451469244\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can I use a Costa Rica SIM in other Central American countries?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No, Costa Rican SIMs will not work outside the country. You&#8217;ll need new SIMs for each country.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"xi-final-words\">XI. Final Words<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Using a local SIM card is the best way to save money and stay connected during your Costa Rica trip. Major providers like Kolbi and Movistar offer prepaid packages with plenty of data and excellent coverage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shop around for the best rates, and purchase your SIM upon arrival at the airport. Follow the setup steps to get started on a Costa Rican mobile network fast. Have a great trip!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Are you traveling to Costa Rica and want a prepaid SIM card for your phone?\u00a0Getting a local SIM to remain reachable but without high international roaming rates makes this possible.\u00a0While using Costa Rica SIM cards is relatively new, it offers instant and reliable communication through the latest generation 4G\/LTE network. This article will provide all [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":3558,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-right-sidebar.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3522"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3522"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3522\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3558"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/costaricaesim.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3522"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}