HelloRoam sells eSIM data plans for Costa Rica, with e SIM pricing from NZ$12.00 across 212+ carrier networks. Scan a QR code and you're connected in under two minutes, no physical SIM swap needed. Your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number stays active while the e-sim handles data. You can get a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days, plus 24/7 live support.
- network coverage
212+- 5G support
4G- to activate
2 minutes
Last updated
Costa Rica eSIM data plans from HelloRoam
Sorted for less: eSIM plans for Costa Rica start from NZ$12.00, with local 4G LTE and 5G mobile data on trusted carrier networks. Works on all eSIM compatible phones. Pay in NZD. Juan Santamaría airport kiosks charge tourist rates that Kiwis on a Central America adventure can beat by ordering at home. A Costa Rica eSIM from HelloRoam starts at NZ$12.00 on Claro 4G networks. Covers San José, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde.
Costa Rica eSIM with fast 4G coverage
HelloRoam offers eSIM plans for Costa Rica starting from NZ$12.00. Connect on 4G networks including Claro. NZ travellers can activate before leaving Auckland and arrive in San Jose connected.
- Plans start at NZ$12.00 with 4G speeds
- Coverage from Claro
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day money-back guarantee
- Costa Rica coverage across major cities
- Network
- 4G
- Plans From
- NZ$12.00
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Guarantee
- 180 days
How to Set Up an eSIM in Costa Rica
Follow these steps to get started with an eSIM on your iPhone or Android.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with the HelloRoam app
Set up an eSIM on your Android with the HelloRoam app
- 1
Choose your plan and checkout online
Pick a mobile data plan for your destination and pay securely in NZD.
2Scan the QR code
Scan the QR code to install your eSIM straight away.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready when you land
Your eSIM activates when you arrive at your destination. No SIM swap, no queues, no airport kiosk.
4Manage it all from our mobile app
Track usage, top up data, and manage your eSIMs in one spot.
Plans changed? No dramas. You're covered.
Travel plans change, and that's okay. With HelloRoam, unactivated and unscanned eSIMs qualify for a full refund within 180 days of purchase. No dramas.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam Costa Rica eSIM vs Spark, Vodafone NZ and 2degrees
Comparing an e SIM vs Spark, 2degrees, or One NZ roaming for Costa Rica? Spark charges NZ$6/day, 2degrees NZ$5/day, and One NZ around NZ$5/day. HelloRoam eSIM starts from NZ$12.00 with local network speeds and a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days. You pay less than a single day of carrier roaming and get no surprise bills.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Local provider | Limited data eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refund on unactivated eSIMs |  Feature available |  Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Live chat support | Feature available |  Feature available | Feature available |
| NZ$0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Hotspot and data sharing included | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| QR code delivered instantly | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Premium Costa Rica carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
Why Kiwi Travellers Pick HelloRoam for Their Costa Rica Trip
24/7 live support
Need help from Tokyo at midnight or London at 2am? Our support team is on 24/7. A real person responds in under 2 minutes. No bots, no hold music, no runaround. Live chat, WhatsApp, and email are all available so you get help however suits you best.
Best eSIM for Costa Rica
Connect to local 4G LTE and 5G networks in Costa Rica the moment you land. Buy your plan, scan the QR code, and get online when you land. No roaming charges, no SIM swap. Local carrier speeds mean maps, streaming, and messaging run without a hitch from the airport kerb.
Dual SIM: keep your NZ number
Keep your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number active for calls and texts. HelloRoam runs on a second eSIM line on any dual SIM phone and handles all your data in Costa Rica. Family and friends ring your NZ number as normal while you browse on local data rates overseas.
212+ networks worldwide
HelloRoam eSIM connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Your phone picks the strongest 4G/5G or 5G signal when you land and switches as you move. That means consistent mobile internet whether you're in a major city, at a rural guesthouse, or on a highway between stops.
Data alerts before you run out
You get an alert at 80% data so you never run dry mid-trip. Top up your eSIM plan from the app with no profile reinstall and no store visit. Your data usage history stays in the dashboard so you can see exactly what you've spent and plan the rest of your trip.
Local 4G/5G speeds in Costa Rica
Connect to local 4G LTE and 5G networks in Costa Rica. HelloRoam picks the strongest signal for maps, streaming, and video calls wherever you travel. Local network speeds make a genuine difference when you're navigating a new city or jumping on a video call with people back home.
Regional plans for multi-country trips
Heading to Japan, Thailand, the UK, or Fiji after Costa Rica? HelloRoam regional eSIM plans cover Asia-Pacific, Europe, and 185+ countries on one QR code. No SIM swapping between stops. One prepaid data plan covers your whole itinerary so you spend less time worrying about connectivity and more time exploring.
Hotspot tethering in Costa Rica included
Share your eSIM data with a laptop or tablet via hotspot. No extra fees, no fiddly setup. Works on all eSIM compatible phones including iPhone and Samsung Galaxy. Useful for keeping a travel partner connected or getting a work laptop online when hotel Wi-Fi isn't up to scratch.
Best eSIM Prices for Costa Rica
Compare eSIM plans for Costa Rica and save versus Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees international roaming.
| Number of days | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | NZ$12.98 |
| 3 days | NZ$36.99 |
| 7 days | NZ$79.94 |
| 15 days | NZ$155.73 |
| 22 days | NZ$211.28 |
| 30 days | NZ$264.74 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for Costa Rica
HelloRoam offers a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days, zero activation fees, and 24/7 live support. See how HelloRoam stacks up against Airalo, Holafly, Saily, and other eSIM providers for your Costa Rica trip.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refund on unactivated eSIMs | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature available |
| NZ$0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Hotspot and data sharing included | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
| Premium Costa Rica carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Own branded carrier identity (SPN) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature available |
What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work in Costa Rica?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your mobile. No plastic chip, no SIM tray to fiddle with. Scan a QR code to install it on any eSIM compatible phone and you're connected in under 2 minutes. It works as a prepaid mobile data plan for Costa Rica travel with no airport SIM counter queue, no replacement SIM, and no carrier contract. Follow the step-by-step setup guide and you'll be sorted well before your flight from Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch. guide
Mobile connectivity guide for Costa Rica
Costa Rica has 4G mobile coverage in San Jose and major urban areas. Claro are the main networks. NZ travellers find Costa Rica coverage reliable in tourist areas and city centres.
A HelloRoam eSIM sorted before your Auckland departure means you step off the plane in San Jose already connected without Spark, Vodafone NZ, or One NZ international roaming charges.
- HelloRoam connects to Claro 4G in Costa Rica
- 4G coverage in San Jose and main cities
- Connect on Claro
- Set it up in Auckland before you fly
eSIM Travel Tips for Costa Rica
Set up your eSIM before leaving New Zealand
Buy your HelloRoam plan for Costa Rica at home, scan the QR code in your phone settings, and activate data when you land. No airport SIM card counters. No setup hassle after a long-haul flight to San Jose.
Your NZ number stays reachable on dual SIM
Keep your Spark, Vodafone NZ, or One NZ SIM active for calls and texts while using HelloRoam for data. Whānau and colleagues back in NZ can reach you on your regular number. Use HelloRoam as your default data line in Costa Rica.
Offline maps are a must for long-haul trips
NZ travellers often make the most of long-haul flights by planning side trips. Download Google Maps or Maps.me offline for San Jose and surrounding areas before leaving New Zealand. Coverage in Costa Rica is generally good in cities but variable in remote areas.
Currency and card tips from NZ
NZ debit cards work at most ATMs and card terminals in San Jose. Notify your NZ bank of your travel dates. Carry some local currency for markets, taxis, and smaller shops. The HelloRoam eSIM keeps currency converters and banking apps running throughout your Costa Rica trip.
Time zone planning for NZ departures
New Zealand's long flight times mean planning ahead is important. Buy and install your HelloRoam eSIM at home before your overnight Air New Zealand or connecting flight. Arrive in San Jose already connected rather than scrambling for Wi-Fi on arrival.
Mobile networks in Costa Rica: what NZ visitors need to know
HelloRoam eSIM for Costa Rica connects on Claro. These are the leading 4G networks in Costa Rica with good coverage in San Jose and major tourist destinations. Your eSIM automatically selects the strongest available signal.
- Claro
- 4G
HelloRoam eSIM vs NZ carrier roaming in Costa Rica
Your data options for a Costa Rica trip from New Zealand.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Local Costa Rica SIM card | Spark, Vodafone NZ, or One NZ roaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From NZ$14.42 total | NZ$3.43–NZ$17.17 total | NZ$17.17–NZ$25.75/day |
| Details | Plans from NZ$12.00. Buy before your flight from Auckland, scan the QR code at home, and arrive in San Jose already on 4G local data. | Purchasable at San Jose airport after landing but requires setup time and paperwork. Unused data typically expires when you return to NZ. | NZ carrier international roaming outside Australia can cost $5 to $15 NZD per day. A two-week trip to Costa Rica on roaming can add $70 to $210 NZD to your phone bill. HelloRoam plans start at NZ$12.00. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best times for NZ travellers to visit Costa Rica
NZ travellers typically visit Costa Rica during the NZ autumn and winter months (April to August) when long-haul travel is most popular. The best weather in Costa Rica depends on the Central America climate cycle.
Reviewed by HelloRoam Editorial Team
Reviewed by HelloRoam Editorial Team
Top Destinations in Costa Rica
San José (Costa Rica)
HelloRoam makes it easy to stay online in San José with data plans that cover all of Costa Rica.
Claro 4G covers central San Jose. Activate your eSIM before landing at Juan Santamaria Airport in Alajuela.
Alajuela
Explore Alajuela without losing connection. HelloRoam offers fast data across Costa Rica.
Alajuela is where San Jose Airport sits. Claro 4G coverage is strong here from the moment you land.
Limon
Arrive in Limon ready to connect. HelloRoam covers all of Costa Rica with fast data.
Limon on the Caribbean coast has Claro 4G in the city. Coverage on jungle roads toward Cahuita is limited.
Showing slide 1 of 3
Reviews
What Kiwi Travellers Say
Real reviews from Trustpilot and the App Store, quoted as written.
40k+ travellers have used HelloRoam
Cat
On a trip to Europe, my hotel Wi-Fi was so slow and outside Wi-Fi was unreliable. I couldn’t take it anymore so I got helloroam for a few days. It was tricky to set up correctly because of the primary settings (with my original number). But I reached out to their customer service via WhatsApp. Super responsive and helpful, with specific and clear steps to troubleshoot. Appreciate having 4G roaming instead of being stuck with in and out Wi-Fi during my trip!!
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Very good experience! The eSIM was easy to set up and worked great in London. It was much cheaper than it would have been to use my own operator there.
Ilona
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
metulker
Hard to set up but help was good
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Reuben
Really happy with HelloRoam. Everything worked as expected, from messaging and Google Maps through to streaming without any issues. Easy to use, reliable and affordable. Would happily use them again when travelling.
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Angeline
Reliable connection. Reasonable pricing.
Rated 4 out of 5 by this reviewer
Last updated
Costa Rica eSIM Questions
How much does a Costa Rica eSIM cost for New Zealand travellers?
A Costa Rica eSIM from HelloRoam starts at NZ$12.00 on Claro 4G networks. HelloRoam activates by QR code before you fly from Auckland. Coverage spans San José, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde. No physical e-sim swap, no NZ roaming charges.
Which Costa Rica eSIM plan suits Kiwis on a Central America adventure?
Kiwis on a Central America adventure pick a Costa Rica eSIM from HelloRoam on Claro 4G networks. Plans start at NZ$12.00 with no contract. Activate by QR code at home before boarding in Auckland. No airport SIM kiosk, no NZ carrier roaming fees.
What is the best eSIM for Costa Rica from New Zealand?
For Kiwi travellers, HelloRoam is a simple eSIM option for Costa Rica. Plans start from NZ$12.00 across 212+ carrier networks in 185+ countries. Buy online, scan the QR code at home on Wi-Fi, and connect the moment you land. It's cheaper than Spark roaming at NZ$6/day, 2degrees at NZ$5/day, and One NZ travel passes. You get local 4G/5G speeds, a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days, and 24/7 live chat support.
How much does an eSIM cost for Costa Rica?
eSIM plans for Costa Rica start from NZ$12.00. That's well under what Spark charges for roaming ($6/day) or 2degrees ($5/day for selected countries). Fixed data plans run from 1GB to 20GB. Unlimited daily plans suit longer stays, OE trips, and remote work. All plans include local 4G LTE and 5G with no overage charges and no carrier contract.
Which networks does eSIM work on in Costa Rica?
HelloRoam connects to local carrier networks in Costa Rica and your phone picks the strongest 4G LTE or 5G signal on arrival. Coverage spans major cities, airports, highways, and popular tourist areas. For Kiwis heading out of Auckland (AKL), Wellington (WLG), Christchurch (CHC), or Queenstown (ZQN), data is ready the moment you land.
How do I get an eSIM for Costa Rica before my trip?
Buy your Costa Rica eSIM on helloroam.com or the HelloRoam app before you fly from AKL, WLG, CHC, or ZQN. Scan the QR code in your phone Settings to install at home on Wi-Fi. Your eSIM activates automatically when you land in Costa Rica. The whole process takes under two minutes. No airport kiosk, no SIM swap.
Does iPhone work with a Costa Rica eSIM?
iPhone XS and all newer models support eSIM for Costa Rica. Open Settings, tap Mobile Data, then Add eSIM, and scan the HelloRoam QR code. Your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number stays active on the physical SIM line while HelloRoam handles data in Costa Rica. That includes iPhone 15, 16, and SE models from 2020 onward.
What is the best eSIM for Costa Rica for NZ travellers?
HelloRoam is a top eSIM option for NZ travellers visiting Costa Rica, connecting on Claro 4G networks. Plans start at NZ$12.00, which is far less than Spark, Vodafone NZ, or One NZ international roaming. Buy online, scan a QR code in Auckland, and land in San Jose already connected.
Does HelloRoam eSIM work in Costa Rica?
Yes, HelloRoam eSIM works in Costa Rica on Claro 4G networks. Activate at home in New Zealand before your flight and connect the moment you land at San Jose airport. Plans start from NZ$12.00 depending on data size and duration. Compared with roaming charges from home carriers, a HelloRoam plan costs significantly less for a typical trip to Costa Rica. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges on your home bill.
Which networks does HelloRoam use in Costa Rica?
HelloRoam eSIM for Costa Rica connects on Claro 4G networks. Your phone automatically selects the best available signal as you travel in Costa Rica. Claro and Movistar Costa Rica are among the strongest 4G providers in the area, covering tourist attractions, airports, and city centers. HelloRoam automatically selects the best available signal so you stay connected without manual network switching.
Is HelloRoam cheaper than NZ carrier roaming in Costa Rica?
Yes. Spark, Vodafone NZ, and One NZ charge $5 to $15 NZD per day for international data. A HelloRoam eSIM for Costa Rica starts at NZ$12.00 and covers multiple days of data use. Plans start from NZ$12.00 depending on data size and duration. Compared with roaming charges from home carriers, a HelloRoam plan costs significantly less for a typical trip to Costa Rica. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges on your home bill.
How do I activate an eSIM for Costa Rica from New Zealand?
Buy your plan at helloroam.com, scan the QR code in your phone's eSIM settings, and enable data when you land in San Jose. Setup is about five minutes over Wi-Fi at home in NZ. The setup takes about five minutes. Buy your plan at helloroam.com, scan the QR code under Settings, then Mobile Data, then Add eSIM. Do this before you leave home using Wi-Fi. When you land in Costa Rica, enable mobile data and the plan activates immediately on Claro / Movistar Costa Rica.
How much data do I need for two weeks in Costa Rica?
Two weeks in Costa Rica using maps, messages, and social media typically uses 5 to 10 GB. NZ travellers on longer trips benefit from a 10 GB or 20 GB plan to avoid running out mid-trip. For a week of typical travel (Google Maps navigation, WhatsApp messages, and social media) you need 3 to 5 GB. If you stream video or make video calls daily, choose a 8 to 10 GB plan. The HelloRoam app shows your remaining data balance in real time.
How many days does the Costa Rica eSIM last?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for Costa Rica come in durations from 12 to 30 days depending on the data size you choose. Costa Rica has 4G coverage via Claro. A longer plan suits NZ travellers on extended OEs or big trips. Select your plan, scan the QR code at home, and connect from the moment you land.
Does Costa Rica have 4G coverage?
Yes, Costa Rica has 4G coverage through Claro. HelloRoam eSIM plans connect on the best available 4G signal across Costa Rica. Install your eSIM in New Zealand before you leave and connect on arrival. Plans start from NZ$12.00 depending on data size and duration. Compared with roaming charges from home carriers, a HelloRoam plan costs significantly less for a typical trip to Costa Rica. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges on your home bill.
What to Know Before You Buy
eSIM requires an unlocked, eSIM-compatible device. Check your phone settings before buying.
Travel eSIMs are data-only, so your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number keeps handling calls and texts as normal on your primary SIM.
Coverage quality varies by location within Costa Rica. Urban areas typically have strong 4G/5G coverage, while rural or remote areas may have limited connectivity.
Install your eSIM before you head off. Activation requires an internet connection, which may not be available at your destination airport.
Transparency Notice
- Service Provider Name (SPN)
- That's HelloRoam you see up in your phone's status bar, not a mystery reseller name. The SPN is a standard field baked into every eSIM profile, and most travel eSIM resellers do not bother provisioning their own.
- Public Network Name (PNN)
- The PNN is the network name field in your eSIM profile, set out in 3GPP TS 31.102 (EF_PNN). Your phone can read it to show the name of the network you're connected to.
- Access Point Name (APN)
- Your HelloRoam eSIM sets its own Access Point Name automatically when it installs, so your mobile locks onto the strongest local network without you touching a single setting.
What you see is our standard retail pricing across 185+ countries, nothing marked up for the page you landed on. Plans get recommended off real traveller feedback and actual network performance, not guesswork. You can get a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days.
Future Syncs Limited 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX, UK +44 203 916 6249 help@helloroam.com Reg. No. 15950168
