What is an eSIM, and how does it work in Costa Rica?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your phone, tablet, or laptop. Instead of slotting in a physical card, you download a network profile from a provider, which connects you to a local mobile network. For Costa Rica, that means you can buy a plan at home, install it in minutes, and arrive already online.
When you buy an eSIM plan the provider sends a QR code or an in-app install link. Scanning it loads the profile onto your device, and from then on the eSIM behaves just like a normal SIM for data. You can keep your usual SIM active at the same time, so your home number still works for calls and texts.
Mobile networks and coverage in Costa Rica
Costa Rica's main mobile networks are Kolbi (ICE), Liberty, and Claro. Kolbi is the largest and has the widest reach, including strong coverage in rural areas and around the national parks, while Liberty and Claro offer fast 4G and 5G in San Jose, the Central Valley, and the main coastal towns. Travel eSIMs connect through these local networks, so you get the same everyday coverage as a Costa Rican SIM.
Ubigi connects to Costa Rica's networks for fast, steady data across the country, while Saily runs on the same local infrastructure with simple per-GB plans. Coverage is strong in San Jose, La Fortuna, Tamarindo, and Jaco, and stays good around the main parks and beaches, though signal can thin out deep in Corcovado and the remote Caribbean south.
Best eSIMs for Costa Rica in 2026
The best eSIM for Costa Rica depends on how much data you need and how you like to manage it. Below are our two recommended providers, both offering reliable coverage across the country, quick online setup, and flexible plans.
Ubigi: Best for flexible value
Ubigi is a popular choice for travellers and digital nomads who want reliable data without overpaying. It connects to Costa Rica's networks and offers one-off plans that scale from small bundles up to unlimited data, all managed from a clean app.
Why Ubigi works well for Costa Rica:
- One-off plans from small bundles up to unlimited data
- Instant activation before you depart
- Strong 4G and 5G coverage in San Jose and the main towns
- Works with dual SIM, so you keep your home number active
- App for real-time data tracking and easy top-ups
- Ubigi discount code: 10% off with NOMADWISE
Saily: Best for simple, secure plans
Saily is built by the team behind NordVPN, so security is baked in. It is ideal for travellers who want straightforward per-GB Costa Rica plans, a tidy app, and extra privacy features while connected on the go from the city to the coast.
Why travellers choose Saily:
- Simple per-GB plans that are easy to compare
- Built-in security features from the makers of NordVPN
- Instant QR-code or in-app activation before departure
- Works with dual SIM, so you keep your home number active
- Reusable app for future trips across many destinations
- Saily discount code: 10% off with NOMADWISE10
Both providers are reliable and easy to install. The best pick for your Costa Rica trip comes down to whether you value Ubigi's unlimited option or Saily's simple per-GB pricing with built-in security.
How to choose the right eSIM for Costa Rica
A few quick checks make it easy to pick the right plan before you travel:
Check your data needs: For maps, messaging, and browsing a small plan is usually enough. For video calls, remote work, or streaming, choose a larger or unlimited plan.
Match your trip length: Short beach or park trips suit small one-off bundles, while longer stays or remote work are better with bigger plans or unlimited data.
Heading into the national parks? Kolbi tends to have the best reach in rural and protected areas, so download offline maps for remote spots like Corcovado just in case.
Verify device compatibility: Most recent iPhones, Google Pixels, and Samsung Galaxy phones support eSIM. Check under Settings, then Mobile Network, then Add eSIM.
Customer support and setup help
Both providers offer support to get you online quickly. Ubigi has an in-app help centre and email support, plus clear install guides for iOS and Android. Saily offers 24/7 chat support and a step-by-step setup flow, which is reassuring if it is your first time using an eSIM. Whichever you choose, install and test the eSIM before you fly so you land already connected.
How to set up your eSIM in Costa Rica
Setting up your eSIM for Costa Rica takes just a few minutes:
1. Check compatibility: Confirm your phone supports eSIM (most recent models do). Ubigi and Saily both list supported devices on their sites.
2. Choose your plan: Pick a data size and validity that matches your trip.
3. Install the eSIM: After purchase you receive a QR code or in-app link. Scan or tap to load the profile onto your device.
4. Activate on arrival: Turn on your eSIM line and enable data roaming when you land in Costa Rica. Activation usually starts automatically.
5. Test your connection: Open a map or browser to confirm data is working. If not, restart your phone or toggle airplane mode.
Final thoughts: best eSIM for Costa Rica in 2026
Staying connected in Costa Rica is effortless with a travel eSIM. You get instant access to local networks without paperwork, queues, or a physical SIM. From working in a San Jose cafe to zip-lining in Monteverde or surfing in Tamarindo, an eSIM keeps you online wherever you go.
Choose Ubigi if you want flexible plans, an unlimited option, and strong coverage across the country. Use code NOMADWISE for 10% off.
Choose Saily if you want simple per-GB plans with built-in security from the NordVPN team. Use code NOMADWISE10 for 10% off.
Either way, an eSIM makes staying connected across Costa Rica easy, reliable, and hassle-free.
