← All countries
Works fine
Works fine
Local app preferred
Works fine
North America
Costa Rica
6 apps tracked1 blocked3 work fine
Last verified: July 26, 2026How current is this? Read our accuracy disclaimer
Payments1
V
BlockedVenmo
Use instead: PayPal / Xoom
Venmo is restricted to US users and doesn’t function in Costa Rica; PayPal (and its Xoom service) works for international transfers.
No setup needed
Last verified: Jul 26, 2026
Still accurate?
Messaging1
iMessage / WhatsApp
No direct substitute
No restrictions on messaging apps; WhatsApp widely used.
No setup needed
Last verified: Jul 26, 2026
Still accurate?
Maps & Navigation1
Google Maps / Waze
No direct substitute
Waze is preferred locally over Google Maps, but both work.
No setup needed
Last verified: Jul 26, 2026
Still accurate?
Ride-hailing1
Uber
Use instead: DiDi, inDriver, HolaCab, ITOBOX
Uber operates reliably in many regions; DiDi often cheaper; inDriver negotiates fares; HolaCab and ITOBOX are local options.
Set up before you land
Last verified: Jul 26, 2026
Still accurate?
Internet Access1
U
UnreliableUS Carrier Roaming
Use instead: Local SIM (Claro, Liberty) or eSIM providers (Airalo)
US carrier roaming is possible but expensive; local prepaid SIM or eSIM offers better coverage and cost.
Set up before you land
Last verified: Jul 26, 2026
Still accurate?
Social Media Access1
Facebook / Instagram / X
No direct substitute
Social media apps are accessible and commonly used.
No setup needed
Last verified: Jul 26, 2026
Still accurate?