Staying connected in Costa Rica is simple and affordable thanks to a wide range of prepaid SIM card options. Whether you’re visiting the country’s stunning beaches, hiking volcanoes, or exploring its rainforests, having local data and call access can make your trip easier and safer. This guide covers everything you need to know — from where to buy, pricing, and coverage, to tourist SIM cards, eSIMs, and how to top up your balance.
Basics Information
Costa Rica has three main mobile network operators offering prepaid SIM cards:
- Kolbi (ICE) – The state-owned operator, known for the widest coverage in rural areas.
- Claro – Competitive pricing and good coverage in urban and tourist areas.
- Movistar (Liberty) – Great data speeds and reliable urban coverage.
All three offer prepaid options suitable for tourists, students, and residents. You can use your prepaid SIM for calls, SMS, and mobile data without committing to a long-term contract.
Official Websites
Here are the official sites to check updated plans, coverage maps, and promotions:
- Kolbi (ICE) – https://www.kolbi.cr
- Claro Costa Rica – https://www.claro.cr
- Movistar (Liberty) – https://www.movistar.cr
Availability & Where to Buy
You can purchase a prepaid SIM card in:
- Official carrier stores (Kolbi, Claro, Movistar)
- Electronics shops
- Supermarkets (e.g., Walmart, Maxi Pali)
- Convenience stores (AMPM, Musmanni)
- San José International Airport (SJO) and Liberia Airport (LIR) kiosks
Pro Tip: Buying from official stores ensures proper registration and immediate activation.
Frequencies Used in Costa Rica
Make sure your phone is compatible with these bands:
- 2G: 850 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz
- 4G/LTE: Band 2 (1900 MHz), Band 3 (1800 MHz), Band 7 (2600 MHz)
- 5G: Not yet widely available for prepaid users (expected rollout soon)
Coverage & Speed
- Kolbi (ICE): Best nationwide coverage, especially in mountains and rural zones.
- Claro: Strong in cities and tourist beaches, slightly weaker in remote areas.
- Movistar: Excellent speed in cities, moderate rural coverage.
Average download speeds range from 20–50 Mbps in urban areas and 5–15 Mbps in remote regions.
At a Glance Comparison
| Operator | Best For | Coverage | Average Speed | Tourist SIM | eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kolbi | Rural areas & national parks | Excellent | Good | Yes | No |
| Claro | Affordable data & calls | Good | Good | Yes | Yes |
| Movistar | Fast data in cities | Good | Excellent | Yes | Yes |
Biometric User Registration
By law, all prepaid SIMs in Costa Rica require registration with a valid passport for tourists or a local ID for residents. The store staff will take your details and link the SIM to your identity.
What to Expect
- Quick purchase and activation (10–15 minutes)
- Affordable packages for short-term stays
- English-speaking staff in tourist zones
- Reliable coverage in most destinations
Device Registration
For most tourists, device registration is not required. Just ensure your phone is unlocked to accept foreign SIM cards.
Carrier Apps with Links
SIM Card Price
- Kolbi: ~₡2,500 CRC ($5) with some starter credit
- Claro: ~₡2,000 CRC ($4)
- Movistar: ~₡2,000 CRC ($4)
eSIM in Costa Rica
- Available: Claro & Movistar offer prepaid eSIMs.
- Not Available: Kolbi does not yet support prepaid eSIM.
Prepaid Plans
Kolbi Example Plan: ₡5,000 CRC ($10) for 5GB, 7 days$20) for 10GB, 30 days
Claro Example Plan: ₡10,000 CRC (
Movistar Example Plan: ₡7,000 CRC (~$14) for 7GB, 15 days
Data Add-Ons
All providers offer extra data packages via USSD code, their app, or at recharge points. Prices start from ₡1,000 CRC ($2) for 1GB.
Tourist SIM
Kolbi, Claro, and Movistar all offer special tourist packages with larger data allowances and free local calls for durations from 7–30 days.
Activation
- Insert SIM into your unlocked phone
- Restart device
- Follow the carrier’s activation SMS instructions
- Your number will be active within minutes
How to Check Remaining Balance
- Kolbi: Dial *888# or use the Kolbi App
- Claro: Dial *30# or use the Claro App
- Movistar: Dial *725# or use the Movistar App
Helpline Numbers
- Kolbi: 1193
- Claro: 7002-7002
- Movistar: 1693
Conclusion
Costa Rica offers excellent prepaid SIM card options for visitors and residents, with competitive prices and strong coverage, especially from Kolbi. For fast urban speeds, Movistar is a solid choice, while Claro provides a balance of affordability and coverage. With eSIM options available for certain carriers and tourist SIM packages tailored for short-term travelers, staying connected in Costa Rica has never been easier.