Costa Rica – Internet

Who are the major internet service providers in Costa Rica?

Kölbi, the consumer-facing brand of state-owned ICE (Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad), is Costa Rica’s national telecommunications provider and offers a broad selection of internet plans. As a state enterprise, Kölbi maintains an extensive network that reaches well beyond the main urban centres into rural communities. Its service portfolio includes fibre, DSL, and mobile broadband options, with plan speeds running from 5 to 200 Mbps. Mobile packages begin at roughly USD $21 per month and home internet from around USD $20 per month (as of 2024). Current plans and service availability can be found at kolbi.cr.

Liberty, which was previously known as Cabletica before its rebranding, is among the leading private providers of high-speed internet in the country. It delivers both cable and fibre optic connections with speeds that range from 45 Mbps up to 500 Mbps. Monthly pricing for Liberty’s internet plans starts at approximately USD $42 (as of 2024), and bundled packages combining broadband with television and telephone services are commonly available. Visit libertycr.com to review current offerings.

Tigo holds a strong position as the country’s top Pay TV operator and provides bundled internet, telephone, landline, and television packages alongside standalone broadband options. Its internet plans span 50 to 300 Mbps and typically include a landline, with entry-level pricing from around USD $40 per month (as of 2024). The latest deals are listed at tigo.cr.

Metrocom is a San José-based telecommunications operator that has earned the Ookla Speedtest Award as the country’s fastest fixed internet provider for three consecutive years. Its focus is primarily on urban markets. Coverage details and pricing are available at metrocom.cr.

Beyond these major players, Costa Rica is served by a number of local and regional providers — notably rural electrification cooperatives including Coopelesca in the northern zone and Coopeguanacaste in the Chorotega region. These cooperatives have played a meaningful role in extending fixed internet access to communities outside the Central Valley. TeleCable is another established regional operator worth considering if you are based away from the main urban hubs.

International providers are also making inroads into the market. Starlink now operates in Costa Rica and offers satellite internet that is particularly relevant for residents in remote areas. Itellum is a locally oriented satellite provider offering plans with speeds of up to 25 Mbps. Because pricing across all providers changes frequently, always consult official provider websites for up-to-date figures before committing to a plan.

What types of internet connection are available in Costa Rica?

Fibre optic is the premium broadband technology in Costa Rica, capable of delivering speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps. The country’s fibre infrastructure has been expanding consistently in recent years — SUTEL recorded that total fibre optic infrastructure had grown to approximately 203,000 kilometres in 2023, with fibre connections accounting for 47.5% of all fixed-line broadband subscriptions by that point. Fibre is most widely deployed across the Greater Metropolitan Area and larger towns, though its footprint is gradually reaching secondary cities and towns.

Comparable to the blended fixed broadband markets common in much of Western Europe, Costa Rica’s fixed network combines multiple technologies rather than relying on a single dominant standard. Cable broadband makes use of existing cable television infrastructure and can deliver speeds of up to 300 Mbps — faster than DSL, though slightly pricier and not universally available in all locations.

DSL runs over a conventional telephone line and provides speeds of up to 50 Mbps, which is adequate for routine everyday tasks. It tends to carry lower monthly costs and is more widely deployed across the country, making it a common alternative in areas where fibre has yet to arrive.

Mobile data services are well-developed, especially in cities such as San José, Alajuela, and Heredia. 4G LTE is broadly accessible and delivers speeds suitable for most everyday applications. A wide-scale commercial 5G network has not yet been established in Costa Rica (as of 2024), though 4G penetration — representing mobile service at least meeting LTE standards — recently reached 95% of the population.

For those living or working in remote locations, satellite internet from providers such as HughesNet and Starlink offers a critical lifeline. While satellite cannot match fibre for speed or consistency, it bridges connectivity gaps for isolated coastal and mountain communities. This distinguishes Costa Rica’s connectivity picture from densely populated countries like South Korea or the Netherlands, where near-universal terrestrial broadband has long been the norm.

How fast and reliable is the internet in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica’s fixed-network broadband delivers an average download speed of 161.77 Mbit/s, placing the country 43rd in international rankings. Its average upload speed of 95.77 Mbit/s earns it 31st place globally (as of 2025). These are creditable figures that put Costa Rica well ahead of most of its Central American neighbours when it comes to fixed broadband performance.

Costa Rica appears to lead the region in fibre optic internet, a conclusion supported by the close alignment of its download and upload speed averages — a characteristic hallmark of the symmetric performance that fibre connections deliver. Metrocom has maintained its ranking as the country’s fastest fixed internet provider for three successive years, as measured by real-world user tests on the Ookla Speedtest platform.

In the third quarter of 2025, Telecable Costa Rica emerged as the top performer for fixed broadband, with an average download speed of 161.4 Mb/s and upload speed of 147.6 Mb/s, along with the lowest recorded ping of 11 milliseconds. On the mobile side, Claro led the field with average download speeds of 90.3 Mb/s and uploads of 22.3 Mb/s, as well as the lowest mobile ping of 35 milliseconds (as of Q3 2025).

Average internet speeds vary considerably depending on location. San José registers around 30 Mbps in some measurements, with Limón and Puntarenas trailing at 15 and 20 Mbps respectively (as of 2024). Service in rural areas and coastal communities can be noticeably slower and more variable.

Sporadic short outages do occur and are typically caused by environmental factors such as storms, falling branches, or animals interfering with above-ground lines and local transformers. These interruptions are usually brief — often a matter of minutes rather than hours or days. For the most current speed benchmarks, consult Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index and the SUTEL website.

How do I get an internet connection set up in Costa Rica?

Arranging a residential internet connection as a newcomer in Costa Rica is generally a manageable process, though the specifics depend on whether you hold formal residency and which providers cover your address. The following steps outline what to expect:

1. Verify coverage at your address. Start by using the online coverage tools offered by providers such as Kölbi, Liberty, Tigo, TeleCable, and Metrocom. Your available options will depend heavily on where you live — urban addresses will usually have fibre, cable, and DSL to choose from, whereas rural properties may be limited to DSL, fixed wireless, or satellite services.
2. Select a plan and get in touch with the provider. Once you have confirmed which services reach your address, pick a speed tier and package that fits your requirements. Sign-up is typically possible online, over the phone, or by visiting a provider’s store or branch in person. Many providers also accept initial enquiries and registrations via WhatsApp.
3. Gather the necessary documents. Most providers will ask for photo identification — a passport is acceptable for foreign nationals — along with proof of your address, such as a rental agreement, a utility bill, or a letter from your landlord. A local phone number may also be requested. Permanent residency is not generally a prerequisite for setting up a residential connection, although some postpaid plans involve a credit check that may be easier to pass once you have a local banking history. Prepaid or month-to-month arrangements are often the most straightforward choice for those who have recently arrived.
4. Read and sign the service agreement. Before signing, examine the contract carefully. Pay attention to whether the plan is month-to-month or fixed-term, the monthly fee, any installation or setup charges, and what equipment rental will cost.
5. Book an installation appointment. A technician will come to your property to fit the modem, router, and any necessary cabling. In urban locations this is usually scheduled within a few days to a week. More remote or complex installations may take longer. Costa Rica’s standard approach involves above-ground cabling from the nearest distribution point to your property, so the technician will run lines accordingly.
6. Check your connection and set up your devices. Once your service is activated, run a speed test to confirm you are receiving the performance you have paid for. Save the provider’s customer service and WhatsApp contact details for future reference. It is wise to use surge protectors for your modem, router, and computer equipment, as power fluctuations occur more frequently in Costa Rica than in many other countries.

Foreign nationals awaiting confirmation of their residency status will generally find month-to-month or prepaid plans the easiest entry point. Once residency documentation is in hand, transitioning to a standard postpaid contract is a straightforward step.

Can I get internet access before my permanent connection is installed in Costa Rica?

Both prepaid and postpaid mobile plans are readily available in Costa Rica, and a prepaid SIM card is the simplest way to get online quickly after arriving. SIM cards from Kölbi, Claro, and Liberty/Movistar are on sale at airports, supermarkets, pharmacies, electronics retailers, and provider outlets across the country. You will need to produce your passport to complete registration.

The three main mobile networks — Kölbi, Claro, and Movistar/Liberty — account for the bulk of national coverage. As the state-run carrier, Kölbi typically offers the most extensive geographic reach, making it a practical default if you are uncertain where you will be spending time or plan to travel outside the main cities.

Portable mobile hotspot devices, such as the Kölbi MiFi, are another practical option. These can be purchased at provider stores and topped up as required, serving either as a standalone connectivity solution or as a temporary bridge while you await the installation of a fixed-line service.

Wi-Fi is widely accessible in hotels, cafés, restaurants, and various public spaces, even in some less-populated areas. The number of co-working spaces has grown considerably in San José, Escazú, Santa Ana, and in popular expat destinations such as Tamarindo, Nosara, and Puerto Viejo, with many offering reliable high-speed connections on a daily or monthly subscription basis. When using any public Wi-Fi network, it is advisable to connect through a VPN to safeguard your personal data.

What does internet service typically cost in Costa Rica?

Internet pricing in Costa Rica is broadly competitive relative to the wider Latin American market, though costs differ according to provider, connection type, and location. The figures below are indicative as of 2024 — always check official provider websites for up-to-date pricing before signing up for a plan.

Kölbi’s mobile packages start at roughly USD $21 per month and home internet from USD $20 per month (as of 2024). Liberty’s residential plans begin at around USD $42 per month and frequently include bundle options that combine broadband with cable television and telephone. Bundled packages across most providers tend to represent better overall value than subscribing to broadband alone.

Installation or activation fees differ between providers and can range from nothing on promotional offers to the equivalent of one month’s subscription fee. Equipment such as a modem and router is generally rented as part of the monthly package rather than sold outright, though purchasing compatible equipment separately is possible and may prove more economical over the longer term.

For mobile data, prepaid SIM plans are available from just a few dollars for entry-level data bundles and scale up to unlimited data postpaid contracts. Postpaid plans represent better value for long-term residents. Always confirm current pricing directly through provider stores or official websites, and refer to SUTEL’s official website for regulated tariff information.

Are there any restrictions or censorship affecting internet use in Costa Rica?

Online censorship in Costa Rica is minimal. While a small number of laws create some scope for overreach, the government does not engage in systematic blocking or filtering of internet content, and the country’s online environment is widely regarded as among the most open in Latin America.

Routine blocking of websites, filtering of content, or restrictions on social media platforms and messaging applications are not part of the government’s approach. Media self-censorship is limited, and the internet hosts a broad spectrum of viewpoints. Efforts to pressure authorities into blocking ride-hailing apps such as Uber, DiDi, and inDrive have come to nothing — in 2021, SUTEL reaffirmed that current legislation does not permit the blocking of applications, citing obligations requiring telecommunications operators to provide free, timely, and non-discriminatory access to their networks.

Although no legislation directly censors online content, the broader legal framework does include provisions addressing hate speech, defamation, child pornography, and other criminal activities, in line with widely accepted international norms for protecting individuals’ rights and safety.

Compared to more prescriptive regulatory environments — such as the European Union’s content moderation requirements under the Digital Services Act — Costa Rica takes a lighter-touch approach, though this comes with its own gaps. The country upholds principles of openness and free expression online but has been noted for insufficient privacy legislation and limited oversight of surveillance practices, earning an “Average” rating on the Privacy Protection Index.

VPNs are entirely legal and widely used by both residents and remote workers seeking to access geo-restricted content or secure their traffic on public networks. There are no known restrictions on VPN use for personal or professional purposes.

What should I know about mobile data and SIM cards in Costa Rica?

The mobile market is dominated by three main operators — Kölbi, Claro, and Movistar/Liberty. Kölbi’s state-run network typically provides the broadest geographic coverage across the country. Network quality is generally strong in urban areas, where 4G LTE is the norm, though speeds will taper off in more remote regions.

Buying a SIM card is a simple process. Cards from all three major operators are sold at international airports, large supermarket chains, pharmacies, electronics shops, and provider branches throughout the country. You must present your passport at the point of purchase, as SIM registration is a legal requirement under Costa Rican telecommunications law — a rule that applies equally to foreign visitors and local residents.

eSIM support is becoming increasingly available, with both Kölbi and Claro among the providers now offering it. This is a convenient option if you arrive with an unlocked eSIM-compatible handset. Since this segment of the market is developing quickly, it is best to check current eSIM plan availability directly with each provider.

If you anticipate travelling to areas with variable network coverage, a dual-SIM phone gives you flexibility to switch between networks as conditions dictate. Roaming on your home-country SIM is technically possible but tends to be costly — charges vary considerably depending on your home carrier and any international roaming add-ons you have in place. For any stay longer than a week or two, a local prepaid SIM will almost always be the more economical choice. Confirm specific roaming rates with your home provider in advance, and check whether Costa Rica is included in any international data bundle you hold.

A fully deployed commercial 5G network does not yet exist in Costa Rica (as of 2024), though 4G LTE reaches around 95% of the population. The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunications (MICITT) has been leading preparatory work for 5G deployment, with plans to launch multiple 5G-based services in due course. For the latest developments on the 5G rollout, follow announcements from SUTEL and MICITT.

Who regulates internet and telecoms services in Costa Rica?

The Superintendency of Telecommunications — commonly known by its Spanish acronym SUTEL — is the body responsible for overseeing the country’s telecommunications regulatory framework. It supports MICITT in the formulation of sector policy and administers FONATEL, the national fund whose remit is to extend internet access to underserved communities. SUTEL also ensures that network operators and service providers fulfil their universal access and service obligations.

SUTEL formally recognises the contribution of regional and local internet providers, including rural electrification cooperatives such as Coopelesca and Coopeguanacaste. Through FONATEL, SUTEL works to promote universal connectivity, directing resources toward areas and communities that lack adequate service. This includes the provision of free internet access to health facilities, community centres, schools, and public colleges, as well as targeted efforts to improve connectivity across indigenous territories.

For expats, SUTEL is a practically useful institution in several respects. Its website publishes regulated tariff information, operator coverage maps, and guidance on consumer rights. Should you encounter a dispute with your internet provider — whether concerning billing, service quality, or contractual terms — SUTEL is the appropriate authority to approach with a formal complaint. The official website is sutel.go.cr.

The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunications (MICITT) sits alongside SUTEL and is responsible for setting national telecommunications policy, including the National Telecommunications Development Plan. The government’s current National Telecommunications Development Plan (PNDT) covering 2022–27 targets a reduction in the digital divide and broader national connectivity by encouraging increased private sector investment. Keeping an eye on publications from SUTEL and MICITT is the most reliable way to stay abreast of regulatory changes, spectrum auctions, and infrastructure developments.

Frequently asked questions: internet access in Costa Rica

Can I get a home internet connection without being a permanent resident?

Yes. The majority of providers are willing to establish a residential internet connection for foreign nationals who can present a valid passport and a proof of address, such as a rental agreement. Permanent residency is not a requirement. Month-to-month plans are widely on offer and are typically the most accessible option for people who have recently arrived. Postpaid contracts that involve credit assessments may be harder to obtain until you have built up some local banking history.

Which internet provider has the best rural coverage in Costa Rica?

Kölbi, operating under the umbrella of the state-owned ICE, maintains the broadest national coverage and is the natural starting point for anyone living outside the Greater Metropolitan Area. Rural electrification cooperatives such as Coopelesca and Coopeguanacaste also provide fixed internet to specific regions. For very remote or coastal properties beyond the reach of terrestrial networks, satellite providers including Starlink and Itellum offer a workable alternative.

How long does it take to get internet installed after signing up?

In urban locations, technicians can usually be scheduled within a few days to a week of signing a contract. In more remote areas, or where additional infrastructure work is required, the wait may extend to two to four weeks. While you wait, a prepaid SIM card or a portable mobile hotspot device is an effective way to stay connected in the interim.

Is the internet fast enough for video calls, remote work, and streaming?

Improvements to Costa Rica’s internet infrastructure in recent years have made the country increasingly attractive to remote workers and digital nomads. In urban areas served by fibre or cable connections, available speeds are comfortably sufficient for video conferencing, streaming high-definition content, and cloud-based work. In rural areas, speeds and reliability can be more variable, so it is worth running a speed test at your specific address before committing to a property.

Are VPNs legal in Costa Rica?

Yes. VPN use is entirely legal and widely practised in Costa Rica. The country maintains a relatively open internet environment in which freedom of expression and access to information are constitutionally protected. The government has consistently taken a pro-internet stance, acknowledging the importance of open connectivity for communication, education, and economic activity. VPNs are a sensible precaution when using public Wi-Fi networks and are also commonly used to access geo-restricted content from your home country.

Are there any websites or services blocked in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica maintains a broadly open internet and the government does not routinely block websites, restrict access to social media, or interfere with messaging applications. Popular international services including Google, Netflix, WhatsApp, YouTube, and major social media platforms are freely accessible without restriction. There are no known blanket blocks affecting VPN services, news websites, or messaging apps.

Where can I buy a SIM card when I arrive in Costa Rica?

SIM cards from Kölbi, Claro, and Liberty/Movistar are available at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José and at Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia, as well as at supermarkets, pharmacies, and provider outlets across the country. Your passport is required at the point of purchase, as SIM registration is mandatory under Costa Rican law. Kölbi is frequently recommended as the best default choice for the widest national coverage.

How do I complain if my internet provider is not delivering the service I pay for?

The first step is to raise the issue directly with your provider and record a formal complaint. If the response is unsatisfactory, you can escalate the matter to SUTEL, the national telecommunications regulator, which handles consumer complaints relating to service quality, billing disputes, and contractual concerns. Visit sutel.go.cr for details on complaint procedures and contact information. It is helpful to keep copies of your service contract, speed test results, and all correspondence with your provider, as these will support your case.