Best ESIM For Costa Rica [2025 GUIDE]

Getting lost in a jungle is fun — until your GPS stops working.

That's the exact moment I realised how critical a reliable internet connection is in Costa Rica.

From roadtrips to La Fortuna to navigating the winding roads of Monteverde, I've had my fair share of adventures (and minor meltdowns) trying to stay connected in this wild, beautiful country.

Trust me, nothing's worse than trying to book a last-minute shuttle or find your Airbnb in the dark with no signal. Been there, panicked a bit.

Back when I first visited in December 2020, I made the rookie mistake of relying on airport kiosks and local SIM stalls, one word – expensive. That's when I made the switch to eSIMs, and honestly, it's been a game-changer. No more queuing at kiosks or dealing with confusing top-up instructions in Spanish.

In this 2025 guide, I'm breaking down the best eSIMs for Costa Rica – the ones that actually work in remote areas, offer solid data for your buck, and support tethering if you're a digital nomad like me.

Let's dive in – and yep, I've also included some exclusive discounts for you readers if you're ready to get your eSIM sorted before you land.

Read also:

Best eSIM for Malaysia
Best eSIM for New Zealand
Best eSIM for Australia
Best eSIM for Vietnam

TLDR; My Costa Rica eSIM Recommendation

Before I dive into my top pick for the best eSIM in Costa Rica, let me share a quick story – because honestly, picking the right eSIM can completely shape your travel experience.

I remember one of my first trips there, driving through the lush Osa Peninsula with howler monkeys echoing in the distance, my map app refusing to load, and me blindly hoping I was still on the right road.

Over time, I've tested a handful of providers while exploring Tamarindo's wild coastlines, volcano trails, and off-grid surf towns — and after all that trial and error, one stood out clearly.

If you're looking for the short answer: GigSky is my go-to for Costa Rica.

Why GigSky? Normally, I don't care much for “unlimited” eSIM plans – most hide behind fair-use caps or slow down after a couple of gigs, which makes them frustrating if you actually rely on data. But in Costa Rica, GigSky struck the right balance between cost, flexibility, and reliability.

For USD 52.49 (about USD 1.70/day) on a 30-day plan, I had unlimited data that was transparent: around 2.5 GB/day of high-speed LTE, then speeds reset the next day.

GigSky also connects to Costa Rica's top networks (Kolbi and Movistar), so I had 4G/LTE even in more remote areas like La Fortuna and Monteverde. Setup was seamless, just install their app, pick the plan, and I was online within minutes.

Sure, Holafly offers “unlimited” too, but with a Fair Use Policy that isn't always clear, plus no true hotspot option. For me, the ability to tether my laptop and know exactly how much high-speed data I'd get each day was a game-changer.

It's not the absolute cheapest eSIM, but at this price and with hotspot included, GigSky gave me more peace of mind than other pricier “unlimited” options. For anyone balancing travel and remote work, it's hands-down the smarter choice.

In the rest of this guide, I'll break down how GigSky stacks up against Holafly, Airalo, Jetpac, and Roamless, so you can see which one makes sense for your trip, whether you care most about price, hotspot sharing, or coverage off the beaten path.

Summary Of The Best eSIMs In Costa Rica

eSIM	Data Coverage	Coverage Duration	Price Range
Jetpac	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB	4 days, 30 days	USD 4 – USD 126
GigSky	1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, Unlimited	1 day, 7 days, 14 days, 15 days, 21 days, 30 days	USD 6.99 – USD 52.49
Airalo	1 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB	7 days, 15 days, 30 days	USD 6.99 – USD 52.49
Holafly	Unlimited	Customisable	Starting from USD 7.90
Airalo	1 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB	7 days, 15 days, 30 days	USD 9.50 – USD 40

Best eSIM For 7 Days In Costa Rica

Planning a one-week trip to Costa Rica? I've tested a bunch of eSIMs across the country – from beach-hopping on the Nicoya Peninsula to cloud forest treks in Monteverde – and let me tell you, not all data plans are created equal.

Some sound great until you realise how little data you actually get, or how quickly the cost adds up. So here's what you need to know before picking one:

eSIM	Plan	Price	Data	Price per GB
GigSky	7 days	USD 13.99	5 GB	USD 2.8/ GB
Jetpac	30 days	USD 20	5 GB	USD 4/ GB
Holafly	7 days	USD 40.90	Unlimited	USD 5.80/ day
Airalo	30 days	USD 30	5 GB	USD 6/ GB

GigSky – This one was a pleasant surprise. For just USD 13.99, you get 5 GB over 7 days — that's about USD 2.80 per GB. For casual browsing, maps, and occasional video calls, it's more than enough.

I used GigSky during a road trip to Puerto Viejo and had no major issues with coverage. The setup was a little less intuitive than Airalo, but once it was working, I had no complaints. Definitely one of the better budget-friendly picks.

Jetpac – Here's the catch with Jetpac: they don't have a 7-day option. Instead, their Costa Rica plan gives you 5 GB over 30 days for USD 20 – which is still a pretty good deal at USD 4 per GB.

I tried Jetpac while bouncing between San José and the Nicoya Peninsula. Speeds were decent, and it held up well for things like Google Maps, WhatsApp, and posting on Instagram. If you don't mind paying for more days than you'll use, it's a solid, reliable, middle-ground option.

Holafly – If you're the kind of traveller who likes to stay connected 24/7 – whether it's uploading beach pics, streaming Spotify on road trips, or booking tours on the fly – Holafly is a solid option.

For USD 40.90, you get unlimited data for 7 days. That worked out to around USD 5.80/day, which might sound steep at first, but the convenience? Priceless. I didn't have to think twice about my data usage – video calls, Google Maps, even uploading Reels were smooth.

Just note: you can't use your phone as a hotspot, so if you need to tether your laptop, this one's not for you.

Airalo – I've used Airalo multiple times, and I love how easy it is to set up – just scan and go. For Costa Rica, they don't offer a true 7-day pack, so the best option is the 30-day plan: USD 30 for 5 GB.

That breaks down to USD 6 per GB, which isn't worth it for a short trip when you can find an alternative for less than half the price. For that reason, I'll put it last on the list.

Best eSIM For 30 Days In Costa Rica

If you're spending 30 days exploring Costa Rica – whether you're working remotely from a jungle lodge in Monteverde or sipping fresh coconut water on the beaches of Santa Teresa – you'll want an eSIM that keeps you connected all day, every day, without the stress of running out of data.

Here's how the main options stack up:

eSIM	Plan	Price	Data	Price per GB
GigSky	30 days	USD 52.49	Unlimited	USD 1.7/ day
Airalo	30 days	USD 45	20 GB	USD 2.25/ GB
Jetpac	30 days	USD 58	20 GB	USD 2.9/ GB
Holafly	30 days	USD 103.90	Unlimited	USD 3.40/ day

If you're the kind of person who can't bear the thought of running out of data, then GigSky's unlimited plan might be for you. It costs about USD 52.49 for 30 days, which works out to roughly USD 1.70 per day. I've found unlimited data plans great when you need to work on the go, stream movies, or share your adventures nonstop on social media.

The downside? It's more expensive upfront, but the peace of mind might be worth it if you don't want to babysit your data usage. Also, it allows you to hotspot, while Holafly, which is the contender, doesn't.

Next up is Airalo, which is a reliable choice I've used many times during my travels. For USD 45, you get 20 GB, coming in at around USD 2.25 per GB. If you want to play it safe with a provider known for good customer support and solid connection quality, Airalo is a strong pick.

Jetpac offers a 20 GB plan for USD 58, or roughly USD 2.90 per GB. I've tried Jetpac before, and it's decent, but you're paying a bit more compared to Airalo for a similar amount of data. It might be worth it if you want a specific feature/ perk (which they do uniquely offer! More on that in our detailed review of Jetpac below) or if you prefer their app and support, but overall, I'd consider it a mid-tier option.

Finally, Holafly offers an unlimited 30-day plan at USD 103.90, roughly USD 3.40 a day. While the “unlimited” label sounds tempting, it's by far the most expensive option on this list, and it doesn't even include hotspot sharing. For me, that's a deal-breaker. At that price point, I'd expect full flexibility to use my data however I want.

If you're a heavy user who truly doesn't mind paying a premium and only needs data on one device, it could work, but personally, it's not the choice I'd go with, since I tend to work on a laptop wherever I go, even when free WiFi is not publicly available.

eSIM I Recommend For Costa Rica

I ended up choosing GigSky for Costa Rica. The 30-day plan cost me USD 52.49 (about USD 1.70/day) – and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

During long drives between national parks and days spent uploading photos from remote beach towns, GigSky gave me steady speeds, and crucially, the ability to tether my laptop when I needed to edit on the go.

That tethering option is what made the difference for me: it meant I didn't have to hunt down cafés with decent Wi-Fi or pay for an expensive local pocket router.

It's easy why GigSky beats the alternatives. Their “unlimited” option is transparent about its limit: roughly 2.5 GB of high-speed data per day, after which speeds are reduced until the next day. You still have internet, you just have to be aware of what to expect and when it will reset. That predictability matters when you're planning calls, uploads, or offline map downloads for a long day of travel.

By contrast, Holafly's “unlimited” plans feel less predictable. Although Holafly advertise unlimited plans, but those plans come with a Fair Use Policy and often limited hotspot allowances (reported around 500 MB/day in many destinations).

Bottom line: unless you're a single-device ultra-heavy user who truly must avoid any chance of mid-trip throttling, GigSky offers a better balance of price and predictability.

Order a GigSky eSIM for Costa Rica here!

eSIM I Don't Recommend For Costa Rica

Jetpac offers some solid features like good coverage and affordable plans, so it's definitely not a bad choice. However, compared to other options available, it's not the one I'd personally go for.

Pricing per gigabyte with Jetpac tends to be a bit higher than some competitors, so it could get more expensive if you need extra data or want a longer plan.

Also, the app and customer support aren't quite as intuitive or responsive as some other providers I've tried, which can make things a bit more challenging when you're travelling.

That said, Jetpac is still a decent option, especially if you're looking for a budget-friendly eSIM and don't need unlimited data. It just doesn't offer the same level of flexibility or ease of use that I personally prefer for travelling around Costa Rica.

Check out Jetpac eSIMs for Costa Rica here

Detailed Comparisons Of eSIMs For Costa Rica

GigSky eSIM for Costa Rica

If you're heading to Costa Rica and want a no-fuss way to stay connected, I've found GigSky to be a pretty handy option.

What I really like is that you don't even need a credit card to start – they offer a free 100 MB plan for 7 days. It's not a lot of data, but it's perfect for getting online right when you arrive to check maps or send a quick message.

For actual travel use, their plans are flexible depending on how much data you think you'll need. For example, I'd probably go for the 1 GB plan at USD 6.99 for 7 days if I'm just doing light browsing and messaging.

But if you're planning a longer stay or want to stream a bit, the the unlimited plan with 30 days validity sounds like a sweet spot.

What I find really useful with GigSky are their unlimited plans. They come in different lengths — from 1 day to a full month — and you pay one price upfront with no surprise top-ups later. The catch is that after using about 2.5 GB in a day, your speeds will slow down, but you'll still have data access, which is better than getting cut off mid-trip.

Here's a quick rundown of their plans for Costa Rica:

• 100 MB for 7 days – Free
• 5 GB for 7 days – USD 13.99 (USD 6.99/GB)
• 3 GB for 15 days – USD 16.49 (USD 5.50/GB)
• 5 GB for 30 days – USD 19.99 (USD 4.00/GB)
• Unlimited plans – From USD 4.99 (1 day) up to USD 74.99 (30 days)

I like that GigSky lets you handle everything through their app, so no hunting for physical SIM cards or awkward stops after landing.

It's perfect whether you're just passing through San José or venturing into more remote parts where staying connected is key. For me, knowing I won't suddenly lose data halfway through the day is a real relief on any trip.

Order a GigSky eSIM for Costa Rica here!

Holafly eSIM for Costa Rica

Holafly is one of the few providers that offer truly unlimited data, which is a huge relief when you're travelling through jungles, hopping between beach towns, or just don't want to think about topping up or running out of data mid-adventure.

Unlike many other eSIMs that cap you at 1, 3, or 5 GB, Holafly keeps it simple: one eSIM, unlimited data, fixed duration. It works on Liberty's 4G/LTE network, giving you coverage similar to locals throughout Costa Rica.

Here's a quick look at their unlimited data plans for Costa Rica:

• 1 day = USD 7.90 (USD 7.90/day)
• 3 days = USD 20.90 (USD 6.97/day)
• 5 days = USD 28.90 (USD 5.78/day)
• 7 days = USD 36.90 (USD 5.27/day)
• 10 days = USD 39.90 (USD 3.99/day)
• 14 days = USD 48.90 (USD 3.49/day)
• 20 days = USD 61.90 (USD 3.10/day)
• 30 days = USD 93.90 (USD 3.13/day)

Easy to install & activates instantly – No waiting, no physical SIM cards, no shops. I landed, turned on mobile data, and I was connected.

Unlimited data = peace of mind – I didn't have to worry once about running out of data—even while uploading photos, using Google Maps, and checking bookings on the go.

Runs on Liberty's 4G/LTE network – This gave me solid coverage in most parts of Costa Rica, including beach towns and national parks.

24/7 support – I never had to use it, but knowing it was there made me feel more secure.

Now, let's talk about the “unlimited” part. Holafly does have a Fair Use Policy (FUP), which means speeds might be reduced if you use an unusually high amount of data in a short time (like non-stop video streaming or huge downloads).

This, however, didn't affect my normal day-to-day usage at all. I was using maps, uploading videos to IG Stories, and hopping on video calls with no problem. Unless you're trying to stream Netflix in HD all day, you'll probably never notice a slowdown.

Another thing to keep in mind: Holafly's eSIM is data-only, so you won't be able to make regular calls or send SMS, and there's no phone number included. Also, their limited hotspot allowances (reported around 500 MB/day in many destinations). But if you're like me and use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Telegram for everything, this won't be a big deal.

Order Holafly eSIM for Costa Rica here

Airalo eSIM for Costa Rica

I've used Airalo across a bunch of countries, and Costa Rica was no different – it's honestly one of the most hassle-free ways to stay connected while travelling.

Before I even touched down in San José, I had already set up my eSIM and picked a plan straight from my phone. It took maybe 5 minutes, and the moment I landed, it automatically connected to Liberty's 4G/LTE network.

No queues, no paperwork, no SIM-swapping. That alone made the arrival so much smoother.

Airalo partners with top local networks like Kolbi ICE, CLARO, and Liberty in Costa Rica, so you're pretty well covered whether you're hanging out in the capital or venturing off to more remote spots like Uvita, La Fortuna, or even parts of the Nicoya Peninsula.

The connection held up well while I was navigating, making WhatsApp calls, posting on socials, and booking tours. Speeds were solid overall, though in some super remote areas, I noticed it slowed down a bit – but I never fully lost connection.

Here's a look at Airalo's current Costa Rica plans:

• 1 GB for 7 days – USD 9.50 (USD 9.50/GB)
• 2 GB for 15 days – USD 15.00 (USD 7.50/GB)
• 3 GB for 30 days – USD 20.00 (USD 6.67/GB)
• 5 GB for 30 days – USD 30.00 (USD 6.00/GB)
• 10 GB for 30 days – USD 35.00 (USD 3.50/GB)
• 20 GB for 30 days – USD 45.00 (USD 2.25/GB)

Their plans are pretty flexible too. It's handy if you still like having the option to call or message locally without relying 100% on data. Just note that the data-only plans don't support calls or texts at all, and they don't come with a phone number.

Another thing I appreciate is how simple the top-up process is. If you're running low, you just open the Airalo app, buy a new plan or add data, and it works instantly – no stress.

You've got 90 days to activate the eSIM after purchase, and once it connects to a local network in Costa Rica, your plan officially kicks in.

Overall, it's not the absolute cheapest option out there, but for the ease, reliability, and peace of mind, I'd say it's worth considering- especially in a country like Costa Rica where you'll likely be bouncing between towns, beaches, and mountains.

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Order Airalo eSIM for Costa Rica here

Jetpac eSIM for Costa Rica

One of the best parts about using Jetpac is that you can actually track your data usage. Even better, any leftover data doesn't go to waste, you can carry it over to your next country.

If you're looking for an eSIM that goes beyond just data – with extras like free VPN and potential lounge access – Jetpac might just catch your attention. I've used Jetpac during past trips in Southeast Asia, and while it worked well in those regions, I recently gave it a go in Costa Rica to see how it stacks up here.

To be honest, it's a bit of a mixed bag, but it does have its strengths, especially if you value added perks while travelling.

The Jetpac plans for Costa Rica aren't unlimited, but the pricing is still fair, especially if you're a light or moderate data user.

• 1 GB for 4 days = USD 4
• 3 GB for 7 days = USD 14
• 5 GB for 30 days = USD 20
• 10 GB for 30 days = USD 33
• 20 GB for 30 days = USD 58

For my Costa Rica trip, I tested the 5 GB plan, which lasted me about 2 weeks with careful usage – mainly Google Maps, WhatsApp, and uploading a few stories. If you're someone who streams or uploads regularly, I'd definitely recommend going for the 10 GB or 20 GB plans instead.

Jetpac connects via Claro, which unfortunately is known as the weakest of Costa Rica's main networks. In cities and coastal tourist towns like Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio, I had decent 4G coverage – enough for smooth browsing and social media. But once I ventured into the mountains or smaller villages, I did notice slower speeds and occasional dropouts.

This isn't a dealbreaker if you're mostly staying in well-connected areas, but if you're planning an off-the-grid escape into the jungle or mountains, this might be something to think about.

Also important: Jetpac is data-only, so you won't get a local number or calling/SMS capabilities. That said, I rely on WhatsApp and FaceTime anyway, so this didn't really impact me.

One thing I genuinely love about Jetpac is that it offers travel extras that most other eSIMs don't even touch:

• Free VPN subscription included with your plan. I used it while working from random cafés around San José—it gave me peace of mind security-wise.
• 50% discount on airport lounges and Fast Track passes at select airports.
• Free lounge access if your flight is delayed. This is actually pretty cool—if you register your flight ahead of time and it's delayed or cancelled, Jetpac sends you a LoungeKey voucher. I haven't needed it yet, but I've seen others use it successfully.
• It's a great safety net if you have long layovers or flights from smaller airports with unpredictable schedules.

You can install the Jetpac eSIM before you arrive, but it won't activate until it connects to a Costa Rican network – and that's when your days start counting. So don't stress if you set it up early, just wait to activate it once you land.

The eSIM has a one-year installation window, so if your plans change, you're not stuck losing it.

Jetpac is ideal if you're a light-to-medium data user who values bonus travel perks. The coverage won't blow you away, especially if you're heading deep into nature, but for city stays, surf towns, and regular travellers who don't rely on massive uploads, it'll do the job.

Just be aware of the network limitations and consider your travel style. If you're someone who spends more time in the jungle than in the hotel, you might want to keep a backup SIM just in case.

Order a Jetpac eSIM for Costa Rica here

Choosing The Best eSIM For Costa Rica

What Is The Cheapest eSIM For Costa Rica?

The cheapest eSIM really depends on how much data you need.

• For a 1 GB plan: Jetpac is the most affordable at USD 4 (USD 4/GB).
• For a 5 GB plan: GigSky offers the lowest cost per GB at USD 19 (USD 3.80/GB).

If you just need a small amount of data for short-term use (like maps and messaging), Jetpac's 1 GB plan is your best budget option. But for longer trips or heavier use, GigSky offer better value at higher data amounts.

Most Reliable eSIM For Remote Areas In Costa Rica?

If you're planning to explore Costa Rica's remote regions, think Jacó, Osa Peninsula, or the winding mountain roads, GigSky is one of the most reliable eSIMs you can get.

GigSky connects to top local networks like Kolbi and Movistar, which means solid 4G/LTE coverage not just in San José or Tamarindo, but also in places where reception often drops. I had signal in areas where my friends on local prepaid SIMs struggled to load Google Maps.

What makes GigSky stand out is its transparent unlimited plan. For USD 52.49 (30 days, about USD 1.70/day), you get unlimited data with a clear fair-use policy: around 2.5 GB/day of high-speed LTE, after which speeds reset the next day. For most travellers, that's more than enough to stream music on long drives, video call family, and still use GPS all day without interruptions. Plus, hotspot tethering is included — a lifesaver if you're working on the go.

Setup is fast and simple through their app, so you can buy, activate, and connect in minutes. No QR codes or complicated steps, just install and you're ready.

The catch? If you're a super heavy user (uploading hours of video daily), the fair-use cap may feel limiting compared to “unlimited” providers. But for the average traveller, even digital nomads juggling work and play, GigSky's balance of price, coverage, and hotspot support makes it the smarter choice for Costa Rica's remote areas.

How To Get An eSim For Costa Rica

Not to sound too biased, but buying an eSIM online is honestly the easiest and most convenient way to stay connected in Costa Rica.

It means you can lock in your mobile data before you even step off the plane, avoiding the hassle of finding a local SIM card at the airport or in town – something that can be tricky, especially if you're arriving late or in a smaller city.

Here's how I usually get my eSIM for Costa Rica, based on my own travel routine and what I've learned from other travellers:

1. Start With Choosing Your Provider: First, think about where you'll be spending most of your time. If your trip is mostly in San José, Tamarindo, or other popular tourist spots, many eSIM providers will give you solid coverage.

But if you plan to explore remote areas like the Osa Peninsula or Monteverde, you'll want an eSIM from a provider that works with networks known for reliable service in rural regions, Holafly is a top pick here because of its partnership with Liberty, which has great reach in those areas.

2. Pick the Right Plan for Your Stay: Providers offer different plans depending on how long you're staying and how much data you'll need.

For example, Holafly offers unlimited data plans for durations from 1 day up to 30 days, perfect if you want to stream, video call, or use GPS without worrying about running out.

3. Purchase Online and Get Instant Delivery: One of the best parts about eSIMs is how fast you get them. After you pick your plan, you simply buy it on the provider's website or app, and they send you a QR code or activation link right away. No waiting for physical SIM cards or visiting shops in Costa Rica. This is super handy if you want to be ready to go the moment you arrive.

4. Installing and Activating Your eSIM: Installing the eSIM is straightforward—just scan the QR code or follow the activation link on your phone. Usually, your phone will automatically switch to the local network as soon as you land.

Keep in mind your data plan will start counting down from the first connection to the network, so don't activate it too early. It's also worth noting that some providers allow you to install the eSIM well before your trip, so you can set everything up without stress.

Why This Method Works Best: Having an eSIM ready to go means you can order a taxi from the airport, check your accommodation's directions, or send a quick message to friends or family the moment you land. No fumbling around looking for a SIM card booth or dealing with language barriers at local shops.

Plus, with plans offering solid data speeds and coverage, you're less likely to get caught without signal during hikes or beach trips.

So, my advice? Think about your itinerary, pick the right plan, buy online, and enjoy worry-free connectivity in Costa Rica from day one.

FAQs About eSIMs In Costa Rica