Learn how to purchase a SIM card at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), including where to buy, costs, and the registration process, plus discover a better alternative for staying connected in Costa Rica.
Are you planning to travel to Costa Rica? This guide will show you how to get a SIM card at Juan Santamaría International Airport as soon as you land. We’ll cover where to buy, pricing details, and the registration process. Plus, we’ll reveal a more convenient option that might save you time at the airport. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly how to connect quickly and affordably in Costa Rica.
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There are 3 main ways to get a SIM card upon arrival at San José Airport in Costa Rica.
At Juan Santamaría International Airport, you’ll find SIM card counters in the arrival halls, around the baggage claim area, and even in the lobby of Terminal A.
Here’s what you need to know about buying a SIM card at Juan Santamaría International Airport:
Kolbi has a counter at the airport, located across from the baggage claim carousels. Look for a blue counter with a sign that reads ‘Kolbi/ICE.’
Claro has a stand at the airport to the left of baggage claim 5.
Liberty does not have a dedicated counter at the airport.
No. SIM card shops at SJO Airport might not open after midnight. According to the available information, the Claro stand at the airport is open from 6 AM to 9 PM and sometimes until 11 PM on weekends.
It is important to note that the availability of SIM card shops at the airport may vary, and it is always recommended to check with the airport authorities or contact the specific phone company for the most up-to-date information.
Good to know: 1000 CRC = 1.89 USD (July 2024)
At San José Juan Santamaría International Airport, you can buy a Kolbi prepaid SIM card for 1,000 Costa Rican colones (~$2) or a Claro SIM card for 1,500 colones (~$3) from vending machines located in the arrivals area.
Below is the detailed information:
1. Kolbi SIM Card Price
| Data + Validity | Price |
| 2GB + 35 mins + 30 SMS + 3GB WhatsApp for 30 days | 5,000 CRC ($9.46) |
| 4GB + 50 mins + 30 SMS + 3GB WhatsApp for 30 days | 8,000 CRC ($15.14) |
2. Claro SIM Card Prices
| Data + Voice/SMS + Social Media | Validity | Price |
| 1GB + 20 international mins + 50 SMS + free social apps | 7 days | 2,000 CRC ($3.79) |
| 2GB + 30 international mins + 100 SMS + free social apps | 10 days | 3,000 CRC ($5.68) |
Note: The vending machines offer a convenient option, but activating and registering the SIM can be tricky. For a smoother experience, consider buying from an official Kolbi or Claro store in the San José city center, like Mall Multiplaza Escazú.
To buy a SIM card at Juan Santamaria airport, here is what you’ll need to bring to the table:
For tourists, this can be a complicated process. We get it – it’s a lot to ask!
So, what’s the solution? Consider buying an international SIM card online before your departure or opt for an eSIM. This way, you can skip the registration process and avoid sharing your info. Plus, you’ll have a working SIM card as soon as you land!
Note: When using an eSIM, here are what you need to follow:
Before or after arriving at Juan Santamaría International Airport, you can easily purchase an eSIM online, a convenient alternative to a physical SIM card.
You can buy an eSIM online from local mobile network operators such as Claro or Kobli, which provide eSIM services for tourists. However, I highly recommend buying from an eSIM retailer like Gigago, as it’s a simpler and more hassle-free process.
What’s impressive about Gigago is its outstanding features, including:
For Costa Rica, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1GB/day for 7 days with $9.90 . What is great about Gigago’s Costa Rica eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $9.90 – $34.50 . Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you have and how long your trip to Costa Rica Gigago will take.
Yes, if it’s unlocked and works with local bands.
Yes, you can top up your SIM card at the operator’s kiosk or store, online, or at authorized retailers.
Usually 10-15 minutes, depending on the line and staff.
In conclusion, buying a SIM card at Juan Santamaría International Airport is a simple and convenient process for travelers. With several kiosks offering a range of options, you can quickly get connected for your stay in Costa Rica. Friendly staff are on hand to assist, ensuring you find the best plan for your needs. This makes staying in touch and navigating your trip much easier right from the moment you land.
This blog post is for travelers seeking the best options for purchasing a SIM card in San José. You’ll learn why it’s a smart move, which carriers offer the best deals, where to buy one, and even some insider tips to make the process smoother.
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When traveling, people need to stay connected, so using a cell phone in Costa Rica is essential. With just a few simple steps, you can set up and connect right away. Let us help you how to do it.
