Internet & Communication

Mobile & SIM Cards

A local SIM card is the best option for mobile internet in Costa Rica. At SJO airport, there are stands from Kolbi (state provider, best coverage), Claro, and Movistar. A SIM with 5 GB data costs about 5,000–8,000 CRC (9–14 USD) and lasts 30 days. Top-ups (recargas) at any supermarket and kiosk.

Coverage: In the Central Valley and tourist areas, 4G/LTE is standard. In remote areas (Osa Peninsula, Tortuguero, deep rainforest), coverage can be weak to non-existent — which adds to the charm there.

Wi-Fi

Almost every hotel, hostel, and restaurant offers free Wi-Fi. Speed varies: In San José and tourist centers, usually good (10–30 Mbps), in remote lodges sometimes very slow. Many jungle lodges intentionally advertise "Digital Detox" — no Wi-Fi is a feature, not a bug.

Phone

Costa Rica has no area codes — all phone numbers are 8 digits. Mobile numbers start with 5, 6, 7, or 8. Landline numbers start with 2. To call from Germany: +506 + 8-digit number.