eSIM Costa Rica
Best eSIM For San Jose: 6 Providers Ranked
Feb
Compare the best eSIM options and providers like eSIM4, Saily, and Airalo for fast internet access in San José. We help you find the best eSIM for Costa Rica. Get online quickly without the hassle of finding a physical SIM card.
Written by Peter Moore – eSIM Content Writer
Our Verdict: eSIM4
If you are looking for the best esim for San Jose, eSIM4 stands out. Plans start at a highly affordable $8.98. You get premium coverage on the Claro Company network. This means reliable mobile broadband across San José, Costa Rica, La Fortuna, San Carlos, and Tamarindo, Costa Rica. It works great if you’re a digital nomad or just visiting for a short holiday. Buying an esim for costa rica before departure saves you time at the airport. This is a great eSIM choice if it’s your first eSIM experience. If you are travel to costa rica, it’s a fantastic way to stay connected.
Why We Chose eSIM4
- Unbeatable Value: Plans start at just $8.98 for 1GB.
- Top Connectivity: Uses the premium Claro network across the country.
- Instant Setup: Install the eSIM and auto-connect on arrival.
- Full Features: 24/7 support and optional Yabb app for calls and SMS.
Best Esims for Costa Rica: Quick Comparison
We compared the top eSIM providers offering service in San José. We looked closely at Saily, Airalo, and Nomad to help you find the perfect match. A good data plan is the best way to stay connected when traveling around Costa Rica. Checking esim prices helps you pick the right esim plan for costa rica. Compare travel esims before you arrive in Costa Rica.
| Rank | Provider | Rating | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ⭐ eSIM4 | 4.9/5 | $8.98 | Best Value & Coverage |
| 2 | Saily | 4.7/5 | $7.99 | Security Features |
| 3 | Airalo | 4.7/5 | $9.50 | Frequent Travelers |
| 4 | Nomad | 4.6/5 | $7.00 | User Experience |
| 5 | Jetpac | 4.5/5 | $1.00 | Cheap Short Stays |
| 6 | aloSIM | 4.4/5 | $9.00 | Simple Setup |
Choosing the Right Plan for Costa Rica
San José offers an amazing mix of culture and urban life. You want a reliable internet connection to explore the Central Market or find your way to the National Theatre. Your data usage depends on your specific itinerary. Review these factors to ensure you have good coverage in Costa Rica including costa rica rural areas. Visitors from the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe often look for a seamless transition. They want fast mobile web access and a solid network in costa rica.
| Factor | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Network Quality | Look for providers using the Claro or Kolbi networks. | Claro offers the best network stability. You want a strong mobile data network for fast loading times. |
| Data Needs | Determine how much data you will use. | Some plans are valid for 7 days while others are valid for 30 days. You don’t want to get stuck running out of data. |
| Trip Duration | Match the plan duration to your stay. | Buying an international eSIM with flexible durations helps you save money. |
| Hotspot | Check if tethering is allowed. | This is helpful if you need to create a Wi-Fi hotspot to share data with friends. |
Recommended Esim Providers: Reviews
We reviewed the leading eSIM providers for San José based on price, network access, and ease of use. Say goodbye to expensive roaming charges. Here are our recommended eSIM providers for costa rica travel. Reviewing different travel esims helps you save money.
eSIM4
Best Costa Rica Esim
eSIM4 takes the top spot as our favorite costa rica esim. It combines solid connectivity with affordable prices. They partner with the Claro Company. This gives you the best network whether you’re at the National Theatre or walking down Central Avenue. It is the best way to stay connected. You get excellent coverage across costa rica throughout San José city center. The Claro network provides a strong signal at major landmarks. It works well at Juan Santamaría International Airport. You can pick a data plan that fits your trip. Grab data for 7 days if you’re staying a week. They also offer a 3 GB plan valid for 30 days. You have options if you consume a lot of data. The setup is entirely digital. Buying an esim online is fast. You receive a QR code via email instantly. Just scan the qr code via email to install the eSIM. It activates automatically when you arrive in Costa Rica.
Coverage
You get excellent coverage throughout San José city center. The Claro network provides a strong signal at major landmarks. It works perfectly at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).
Data Plans
You can pick a data plan that fits your trip. Grab 1GB for $8.98 if you’re staying for 7 days. They also offer a 3GB plan valid for 30 days. You have options if you consume a lot of data.
Activation Process
The setup is entirely digital. Purchase your new eSIM online before departure. You’ll receive a QR code via email instantly. Just scan the QR code to install the eSIM. It activates automatically when you arrive in Costa Rica.
eSIM4 Pricing Plans
| Data / Type | Duration | Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $8.98 | 47% OFF |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $17.98 | 33% OFF |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $15.98 | 48% OFF |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Best price-to-data ratio
- Uses premium Claro network
- Instant QR delivery
- Hotspot/tethering included
Cons
- Device must be unlocked
- Voice calls require app usage
Saily
Security Features
Saily comes from the team behind NordVPN. It offers solid privacy features and competitive esim prices. Saily connects to major networks across Costa Rica. This gives you a reliable eSIM experience. Saily offers strong coverage in San José. You stay connected at landmarks and the airport without dropping your internet connection. They offer data-only eSIMs ranging from 1GB to 10GB. Some plans are valid for 7 days while others are valid for 30 days.
Coverage
Saily offers strong coverage in San José. You’ll stay connected at landmarks and the airport without dropping your internet connection.
Data Plans
They offer data-only eSIMs ranging from 1GB to 10GB. Some plans are valid for 7 days while others are valid for 30 days.
Activation Process
Buy your plan online and get a QR code via email. Scan the QR code to install it on your device. Turn on data roaming when you land.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $7.99 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $18.99 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $26.99 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $43.99 |
Airalo
Frequent Travelers
Airalo is popular with frequent travelers. It provides good regional plan options and a polished app. You get access to multiple local networks for coverage across the country. Expect reliable coverage throughout San José. The multiple network access keeps your phone online while traveling around Costa Rica. Airalo has different eSIM plans from 1GB up to 20GB. They are great if you consume a lot of data during your trip. Purchase the eSIM before you fly. Install the eSIM using the provided QR code.
Coverage
Expect reliable coverage throughout San José. The multiple network access keeps your phone online while traveling around Costa Rica.
Data Plans
Airalo has different eSIM plans from 1GB up to 20GB. They are great if you consume a lot of data during your trip.
Activation Process
Purchase the eSIM before you fly. Install it using the provided QR code. It connects when you arrive.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $9.50 |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $15.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $20.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $30.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $35.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $45.00 |
Nomad
Flexible Plans
Nomad is another solid choice. It offers an excellent app design and flexible plans. You can easily buy an eSIM and top up if you’re running out of data. Nomad connects to multiple networks. This ensures a stable signal in San José and across Latin America. You’ll find plans from a 1GB non-5G option for $7.00 up to 20GB for 45 days. They only sell data-only plans. Installing and activating is easy. Scan the QR code you get in your email. Turn it on at your destination.
Coverage
Nomad connects to multiple networks. This ensures a stable signal in San José and across Latin America.
Data Plans
You’ll find plans from a 1GB non-5G option for $7.00 up to 20GB for 45 days. They only sell data-only plans.
Activation Process
Installing and activating is easy. Scan the QR code you get in your email. Turn it on at your destination.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB (Non-5G) | 7 Days | $7.00 |
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $9.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $20.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $28.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $35.00 |
| 20 GB | 45 Days | $55.00 |
Jetpac
Cheapest Esim
Budget travelers love Jetpac. A Jetpac eSIM is the cheapest esim option for quick trips. They offer a $1.00 starter plan that is hard to beat. Jetpac uses local networks. You get excellent coverage in the city center. The $1.00 plan gives you 1GB of data for 4 days. They also have larger options up to 20GB valid for 30 days.
Coverage
Jetpac uses local networks. You get excellent coverage in the city center.
Data Plans
The $1.00 plan gives you 1GB of data for 4 days. They also have larger options up to 20GB valid for 30 days.
Activation Process
Buy online and scan the QR code to install the eSIM profile. Activate it upon arrival.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 4 Days | $1.00 |
| 3 GB | 7 Days | $14.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $20.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $33.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $58.00 |
aloSIM
Simple Setup
aloSIM offers a simple setup process. It provides good LTE network access. This is a practical Costa Rica eSIM for general web browsing and finding restaurants on maps. You get reliable LTE coverage in San José. It works great for navigating the city. Plans range from 1GB to 20GB. They don’t let you upgrade your data amount once purchased. Choose your plan carefully before you travel to Costa Rica. Purchase your eSIM data plan. Scan the QR code to install. Enable data roaming when you arrive.
Coverage
You get reliable LTE coverage in San José. It works perfectly for navigating the city.
Data Plans
Plans range from 1GB to 20GB. They don’t let you upgrade your data amount once purchased. Choose your plan carefully before you travel to Costa Rica.
Activation Process
Purchase your eSIM data plan. Scan the QR code to install. Enable data roaming when you arrive.
Pricing Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $9.00 |
| 2 GB | 15 Days | $15.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 Days | $20.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 Days | $30.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $38.50 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $46.50 |
Our Verdict: Best Costa Rica Esim
After testing and comparison of providers, eSIM4 is our clear winner for San José travel. You get the best esims for Costa Rica in one place.
The combination of low pricing and premium Claro network access makes it the smartest choice. Whether you’re exploring the Central Market or enjoying a long stay in Costa Rica, eSIM4 ensures you stay connected without overpaying. Getting data in Costa Rica is simple. Just scan the QR code and your mobile data network connects.
Get eSIM4 For San José →How Do I Know If My Phone Is Compatible?
Most modern smartphones support eSIM technology. This includes iPhone XR and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer.
Check that your phone is unlocked before you buy. If your phone is unlocked, you can use an esim easily. Review your device settings for an “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan” option. You can consult our compatibility guide below.
Check Compatibility List →Can I Make Phone Calls with My eSIM?
Most travel eSIMs for Costa Rica are data-only. You can still use standard VoIP apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime to keep in touch with family back home. This requires both people to have an internet connection.
A Smarter Way to Call with Yabb
Standard apps are great for chatting with friends. They often fail when you need to call a hotel or book a restaurant in San José. Yabb solves this by allowing you to make high-quality voice calls to any mobile or landline number worldwide using your eSIM data. It works just like a regular phone call without the recipient needing an app. It helps you avoid the massive roaming fees charged by your home carrier. Using an esim to stay connected makes international travel easy.
- Standard Apps: Use WhatsApp for free app-to-app calls in Costa Rica.
- Yabb Advantage: Call real phone numbers (hotels/restaurants) that don’t have apps.
- Zero Roaming: Avoid expensive per-minute voice charges from your home provider.
Can I Send Text Messages with My eSIM?
Sometimes you want to send a quick text to a friend or confirm a booking. Yabb allows you to send and receive global SMS messages using your eSIM data. Your eSIM can be used to send texts securely.
Global Messaging
Unlike apps that require both parties to be online, Yabb lets you send real SMS texts to any mobile phone. This ensures your message gets through. It’s a lifesaver when you get an esim for your trip.
Key Features
- Pay As You Go: Purchase credits only when needed.
- Two-Way: Receive replies directly within the app.
- Global Reach: Works across Costa Rica and worldwide.
How to Activate an eSIM in San José
Getting online in Costa Rica is straightforward. Follow these steps to install the esim.
- Buy Online: Buy the plan from eSIM4 before your flight.
- Scan QR Code: You receive a QR code via email instantly. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM and scan the QR code.
- Connect: Upon arrival in San José, turn on the eSIM line and enable Data Roaming to activate the esim. You connect automatically.
Essential Usage Tips
Review these factors regarding your mobile data to ensure a smooth experience while traveling across the country. If you are looking for the best way to stay connected, follow our guide.
Check Device Compatibility
Before buying a plan, verify that your smartphone is eSIM compatible. An unlocked phone is required when traveling. WhatsApp is the dominant messaging app in Latin America. Install it before you arrive to communicate easily with local businesses and tour guides. Calls and SMS are usually handled through WhatsApp here. Always check your phone when traveling for carrier restrictions.
Prioritize Wi-Fi for Heavy Tasks
While your local eSIM keeps you connected on the go, reserve bandwidth-heavy activities for hotel or café Wi-Fi. Many travelers ask about unlimited data. Some providers offer an eSIM with unlimited data. They often have a strict fair use policy. We prefer eSIM4 for transparent pricing. Backing up photos to the cloud should be done over Wi-Fi so you avoid running out of data.
How We Ranked These eSIM Providers
While many reviews rely on simple speed tests, our approach is built on rigorous industry analysis. Our team of telecommunications experts audits the technical specifications. We look under the hood to see how the connection is delivered. You don’t want to navigate Costa Rica without a reliable signal.
Our Technical Evaluation Criteria
- Premium Network Access: We check if the eSIM connects to premium networks like Claro or Kolbi with priority access. A bad roaming partner means your data slows down in crowded areas.
- Latency & Routing Stats: Responsiveness is key. We evaluate the data routing paths to ensure your traffic isn’t delayed. This stops lag in video calls and maps.
- Fair Usage Policy Analysis: We read the fine print of data-only eSIMs to identify hidden throttling thresholds. Our top picks offer genuine high-speed data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which eSIM is best for San José?
eSIM4 is our top recommendation for San José. It offers the best combination of low prices, reliable coverage, and responsive support. It’s the cheapest eSIM that still gives you premium data.
Do I need a physical SIM card in Costa Rica?
No. A physical SIM card is outdated. An eSIM is cheaper and more convenient. You avoid the hassle of finding a store at the airport. You just buy an eSIM online.
Can I keep my WhatsApp number?
Yes. Your WhatsApp will continue to work with your original number. It simply uses the eSIM data to send messages.
Does eSIM4 work outside San José?
Yes. Because eSIM4 uses the Claro network, it has wide coverage across Costa Rica. It works well on major tourist paths and beaches. If you travel onward to Colombia, regional plans cover that too.
How fast is the internet speed?
In major cities like San José, you can expect fast LTE or 5G speeds. In more rural areas, the cellular network typically switches to a stable 4G signal.
Can I get a local phone number?
Travel eSIMs for Costa Rica are data-only. This means they don’t include a local number. You can use apps like Yabb or WhatsApp for calling.
Are there other brands out there?
Yes. Other options like Ubigi or Holafly exist. Some data-only eSIMs might include a free VPN subscription. This is rare but Saily benefits from its NordVPN ties.
