Esim Nomads

Best eSIM for Costa Rica in 2025

May 19, 2025, by Katie D.

Whether you're trekking through lush rainforests, catching waves in Tamarindo, or exploring the bustling streets of San José, staying connected in Costa Rica is essential. eSIMs make this easy — they activate in minutes, require no physical SIM swapping, and offer reliable data on the go.

In this guide, we compare the 6 best eSIM providers for Costa Rica in 2025: Holafly, GigSky, Yesim, Nomad, Airalo, and Saily. We’ve verified each provider's pricing and features so you can choose the best fit for your trip.

 

1. Holafly

Holafly is the top choice for travelers seeking unlimited data and a stress-free setup. Their Costa Rica eSIM provides uninterrupted connectivity across the country with coverage via leading local carriers. Setup is instant through a QR code, and customer service is available 24/7.

Holafly’s key strength is its unlimited data, which makes it ideal for remote workers, frequent streamers, or digital nomads. However, it does not support hotspot/tethering, and the plans are slightly pricier than those with capped data. Still, for those who prioritize convenience and unlimited browsing, Holafly delivers.

Pricing:

  • 1 Day – $7.90
  • 5 Days – $19.00
  • 7 Days – $27.00
  • 10 Days – $34.00
  • 15 Days – $47.00
  • 20 Days – $54.00
  • 30 Days – $64.00
  • 60 Days – $87.00
  • 90 Days – $99.00


Key Features:

  • Unlimited data
  • Instant eSIM delivery
  • Connects to top Costa Rican networks
  • 24/7 customer support


Pros:

  • Truly unlimited data
  • Seamless activation
  • Multilingual support


Cons:

  • No hotspot/tethering
  • Higher price for longer stays

2. GigSky

GigSky offers simple and dependable eSIM plans for Costa Rica. Ideal for short-term travelers, their plans are data-only and connect to major Costa Rican networks. Setup is handled through the GigSky app, which allows you to buy and manage plans quickly.

GigSky is not the cheapest, but its plans are straightforward, and the app is polished. It’s best suited for travelers who want quick setup and reliable data without exploring too many customizations.

Pricing:

  • 1 GB / 7 Days – $7.99
  • 5 GB / 30 Days – $18.99
  • 10 GB / 30 Days – $34.99


Key Features:

  • Global brand with good coverage
  • App-managed setup
  • Instant eSIM provisioning


Pros:

  • Reliable connectivity
  • Simple plan structure
  • Works well across devices


Cons:

  • No unlimited option
  • Limited data tiers

3. Yesim

Yesim provides flexible data options for travelers to Costa Rica, including both fixed data and unlimited plans. Their standout feature is hotspot support — even on unlimited plans — making Yesim ideal for travelers who want to share their connection with laptops or tablets.

While slightly more expensive than competitors for similar data amounts, Yesim makes up for it with tethering, in-app chat support, and a clean user interface. It's best for those who want to hotspot or need flexible, unlimited browsing.

Pricing:

  • 3 GB / 7 Days – $12.00
  • 10 GB / 30 Days – $24.00
  • Unlimited / 7 Days – $23.00
  • Unlimited / 30 Days – $49.00


Key Features:

  • Unlimited and capped plans
  • Hotspot supported
  • 24/7 in-app support


Pros:

  • Tethering available
  • Great for sharing data
  • Strong support


Cons:

  • Slightly higher pricing
  • Limited plan variety

4. Nomad

Nomad is one of the best value-for-money options for Costa Rica eSIMs. With plans starting at $8 for 1 GB, it’s ideal for travelers who want flexibility, clean app design, and reliable performance. Nomad partners with local carriers to offer strong coverage throughout the country.

Nomad doesn’t offer unlimited data, but its cost-per-gigabyte is excellent, especially for plans up to 20 GB. It’s perfect for digital nomads or tourists on longer trips who want generous data without overspending.

Pricing:

  • 1 GB / 7 Days – $8.00
  • 3 GB / 30 Days – $11.00
  • 5 GB / 30 Days – $14.00
  • 10 GB / 30 Days – $20.00
  • 15 GB / 30 Days – $25.00
  • 20 GB / 30 Days – $30.00


Key Features:

  • Competitive pricing
  • App-based eSIM delivery
  • Real-time data tracking


Pros:

  • Excellent value
  • User-friendly app
  • Flexible data choices


Cons:

  • No unlimited data
  • No call or SMS support

5. Airalo

Airalo is a favorite for travelers seeking affordable, prepaid eSIMs with reliable performance. Their Costa Rica “Kölbi” plan connects to strong local networks, and the Airalo app lets users easily install and manage plans from their phones.

Airalo is ideal for travelers who want short-term connectivity for messaging, maps, and browsing. It lacks unlimited options, but the user interface is one of the best in the industry, and pricing is very competitive.

Pricing:

  • 1 GB / 7 Days – $9.50
  • 2 GB / 15 Days – $13.00
  • 3 GB / 30 Days – $17.50
  • 5 GB / 30 Days – $24.00
  • 10 GB / 30 Days – $37.00


Key Features:

  • Affordable short-term plans
  • Easy top-up system
  • eSIM activated via app

Pros:

  • Great for light users
  • Clear, simple app
  • Global reputation

Cons:

  • No unlimited plans
  • No hotspot/tethering

6. Saily

Saily, developed by the makers of NordVPN, is a newer entrant with well-priced, data-only eSIMs for Costa Rica. The app is clean and easy to use, and setup is nearly instant. Plans range from 1 to 20 GB, catering to casual users and extended stays alike.

Although it doesn’t offer unlimited data, Saily’s pricing is competitive, and it’s a solid choice for travelers who want simple connectivity without the extra frills.

Pricing:

  • 1 GB / 7 Days – $7.99
  • 3 GB / 30 Days – $10.99
  • 5 GB / 30 Days – $15.99
  • 10 GB / 30 Days – $26.99
  • 20 GB / 30 Days – $47.99


Key Features:

  • Trusted by NordVPN team
  • Instant delivery
  • Easy mobile app experience


Pros:

  • Affordable entry plans
  • Smooth app interface
  • Quick activation


Cons:

  • No unlimited data
  • Data-only (no voice/SMS)

Best eSIM for Costa Rica: How to Choose?


Choosing the best eSIM for Costa Rica depends on how long you're staying and how much data you need. If you want true unlimited data and don’t need to hotspot, Holafly is your top pick. For sharing your connection or using multiple devices, Yesim is the only unlimited provider that supports tethering.

Travelers on a budget can look at Saily, GigSky, or Nomad, which all offer strong plans under $10. For the most intuitive app and fast top-ups, Airalo stands out — especially for light or moderate users.

 

So, which is the best eSIM for Costa Rica in 2025?

Holafly is the best eSIM for Costa Rica in 2025.

With true unlimited data, reliable connectivity, and easy setup, it offers peace of mind — especially for travelers who rely on their phones for navigation, work, or constant communication. While other providers are more affordable, Holafly’s unlimited access makes it the top all-around recommendation for this year.