SIM Card at San José Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO)

Where to Buy SIM Card at San José Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO)?

Buy Costa Rica SIM Card Online and Pickup at San José Juan Santamaría Airport
If you're planning to travel to Costa Rica and arriving at San José Juan Santamaría Airport you might be able to buy a SIM card online in advanced and pick it up at SJO airport (subject to availability). You can also buy a Costa Rica eSIM online if it's compatible with your phone.

» 🇨🇷 Buy an eSIM online that works in Costa Rica and globally.

» 🔎 Find a Costa Rica SIM Card via Klook (SJO Airport Pickup)
» 🔎 Find a Costa Rica SIM Card via GetYourGuide (SJO Airport Pickup)

Buy Costa Rica SIM Card on Arrival at San José Juan Santamaría Airport
Below are the details on the best sim card and data plans that you can buy when you arrive in San José Juan Santamaría Airport. We provide information on different mobile providers in Costa Rica, location in SJO airport, mobile plans for tourist and their prices.

Kolbi
  • Location: Blue Kolbi/ICE kiosk across from baggage claim carousels in arrivals, just past customs.
  • Hours: Approximately 6 AM–9 PM (may extend to 11 PM on weekends).
  • Estimated Price: ~1 000 CRC (~$2 USD) for a SIM; additional data bundles: 5 000 CRC for 2 GB+35 min+30 SMS+3 GB WhatsApp (½ day validity?), 8 000 CRC for 4 GB+50 min+30 SMS+3 GB WhatsApp for 30 days.
  • Payment Method: Cash and credit card (passport required for registration).
Claro
  • Location: Stand to the left of baggage claim #5 in arrivals (inside the arrivals hall).
  • Hours: Usually 6 AM–9 PM, occasionally until 11 PM on weekends.
  • Estimated Price: ~1 500 CRC (~$3 USD) for a basic SIM; typical plans: 2 000 CRC for 1 GB+20 int’l mins+50 SMS (7 days), 3 000 CRC for 2 GB+30 int’l mins+100 SMS (10 days).
  • Payment Method: Cash and likely card, but beware of unofficial sellers who may not provide receipts.
Liberty (formerly Movistar)
  • Location: No dedicated booth inside the airport; may be available at convenience stores (e.g., PlugIn) in terminal.
  • Hours: Same as other vendors—approximately 6 AM–9 PM.
  • Estimated Price: SIM ~1 500 CRC (~$3 USD); typical data plans include 1 GB+15–20 min for around 1 200–2 000 CRC (~$2.5–4 USD).
  • Payment Method: Cash and card at stores.

Need more info? Visit San José Juan Santamaría Airport website map page to find specific location or contact SJO airport customer service at this phone number or email: +506 2437‑2400

SIM Card Registration & Activation Process for Tourists in Costa Rica

Tourists in Costa Rica must present a valid passport to purchase and register a SIM card. The registration process is usually completed at the point of sale, where vendors collect passport details and link them to the SIM. Physical presence is required, and in some cases, a photo may be taken for verification. Registration ensures compliance with national telecommunications regulations aimed at enhancing user accountability. SIM cards are typically activated immediately, allowing tourists to access mobile services without delay.

eSIM Card for San José, Costa Rica

Using an eSIM for Costa Rica offers flexibility to switch carriers without physical SIM cards. It's convenient for frequent travelers and reduces the risk of losing SIM cards. more info...

Local eSIMGlobal eSIM
» Airalo Bosnia and Herzegovina eSIM» Airalo Global eSIM
» GetYourGuide Bosnia and Herzegovina eSIM» GetYourGuide Global eSIM
» Klook Bosnia and Herzegovina eSIM» Klook Global eSIM

Costa Rica SIM Card and Mobile Phone Providers

A list of all the best mobile providers/carriers in Costa Rica.

NameDescription
KölbiThe largest mobile carrier, state-owned, offering extensive coverage and a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans.
MovistarA popular carrier with competitive pricing and good coverage, owned by Spanish telecommunications giant Telefónica.
ClaroA major carrier offering competitive pricing, good coverage, and a range of prepaid and postpaid options.
Tuyo MóvilA smaller carrier focused on affordable prepaid plans, ideal for budget-conscious users.

Related Info:
- Mobile Coverage Map in Costa Rica
- Buying a SIM Card at the Airport Tips & Advice
- eSIM Card vs Physical SIM - Which is Better?

Related Services and Activities in SJO Airport