How reliable is internet for remote work in Uvita and Ojochal?

Uvita and Ojochal have become increasingly popular with remote workers, digital nomads, and people relocating to Costa Rica. Internet service is generally good, and there are several providers and connection types available, including fiber optic, wireless, and Starlink satellite internet.

However, internet reliability can vary considerably between properties, even within the same neighborhood. If your work depends on consistent connectivity, it's important to understand the available services and have a backup plan.

Fiber Optic Internet

Fiber optic internet is available in many parts of Uvita and Ojochal and can provide excellent speeds for video calls, streaming, and everyday remote work.

However, much of the fiber infrastructure runs above ground along utility poles. Fallen trees, heavy storms, vehicle accidents, and damaged poles can interrupt service.

Extended power outages can also affect network equipment beyond the property itself, meaning your internet may remain offline even if you have backup electricity at home.

Another consideration is technical support. Depending on the provider and the nature of the problem, repairs or equipment replacements can sometimes take several days or even a week or longer.

Starlink Satellite Internet

Starlink has become a popular alternative in the Southern Zone, particularly for homes in mountainous or rural locations where traditional internet infrastructure may be limited.

Starlink generally performs well for remote work, video calls, and streaming, including during many typical rainy-season conditions. However, particularly heavy rainfall can temporarily affect the connection.

Residential service is currently around ₡25,000 per month, with equipment purchased separately. Prices and plans may change.

Starlink equipment is available locally through retailers including PriceSmart, Monge, and Gollo, as well as directly through Starlink.

One important consideration is that Starlink requires a relatively unobstructed view of the sky. Properties surrounded by dense jungle or tall trees may experience interruptions if the antenna cannot maintain a clear satellite connection.

Before purchasing equipment, use the Starlink app to check for obstructions at the intended installation location.

Internet Speeds and Equipment

Internet speeds vary depending on the provider, location, equipment, and network conditions.

Starlink typically provides faster download speeds than upload speeds. This is worth considering if your work involves transferring large files, uploading videos, or frequently using cloud-based systems.

Fiber optic connections may offer higher and more consistent upload speeds, depending on the service plan.

For larger homes, a single router may not provide adequate coverage throughout the property. A mesh Wi-Fi system, extender, or additional access points can significantly improve coverage.

Where supported, connecting a computer directly through Ethernet can provide a more stable connection than Wi-Fi, particularly for video conferencing and other demanding applications. Ethernet does not increase the speed of the underlying internet service.

Power Outages and Lightning

Power interruptions and electrical storms are part of living in a tropical environment.

Even if your internet service is functioning, your modem and router will stop working when the electricity goes out unless they have backup power.

We recommend using a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) for essential networking equipment. This can keep your connection operating during shorter power interruptions.

Lightning and electrical surges can also damage modems, routers, Starlink equipment, and other electronics.

Appropriate surge protection, grounding, and professional installation are particularly important.

Starlink may provide replacement equipment under applicable support or warranty arrangements, but shipping and replacement times can be challenging in Costa Rica. It is worth having a backup plan rather than assuming replacement equipment will arrive immediately.

Backup Internet Options

For people whose income depends on reliable connectivity, we recommend having at least two independent ways to access the internet.

Options include:

• Fiber optic internet with Starlink as a backup.
• Starlink with a cellular hotspot as a backup.
• A secondary internet connection from a different provider.
• A UPS for modems, routers, and networking equipment.
• A generator or other suitable backup power system for extended outages.

Cellular hotspots can be useful where mobile coverage is available. However, some rural and mountainous properties have limited or no cellular signal, so this should be tested before relying on it.

Temporary Internet Equipment Rentals

If your primary internet connection fails, temporary equipment may be available through OSA Rentals at osarentalscr.com.

Options may include Starlink Mini satellite internet, UPS battery backups, Wi-Fi extenders, and other equipment to help restore connectivity while permanent repairs are arranged.

Availability, compatibility, and rental terms should be confirmed in advance.

Private Workspaces in Ojochal

For remote workers who need a reliable alternative to working from home, Spaces Work Studios in Ojochal offers private, climate-controlled workspaces available for short-term and longer-term rental arrangements.

The property is designed with connectivity and power redundancy, including:

• Fiber optic internet.
• Starlink satellite internet as a secondary connection.
• UPS battery backups for networking equipment.
• Backup generator and solar-supported power infrastructure.
• Private, dedicated workspaces suitable for calls and focused work.

Studios may be available by the day, week, or month, subject to availability.

This provides an alternative for professionals who cannot afford to lose an entire working day because of an internet or electricity outage at home.

What to Ask Before Renting or Buying a Property

If reliable internet is important to your work, we recommend confirming the following before committing to a property:

• Which internet provider currently services the home?
• Is the connection fiber optic, wireless, or satellite?
• What are the actual download and upload speeds?
• Is the connection reliable during heavy rain?
• Is there a backup internet connection?
• Does the property have a UPS or backup power system?
• Is there adequate cellular coverage for a hotspot?
• Is the Wi-Fi signal strong in the room where you plan to work?
• Does the property have a clear view of the sky for Starlink?
• How quickly can technical support typically respond?

Where possible, request a recent speed test and test the connection during the hours you normally work.

Our Recommendation

Uvita and Ojochal can be excellent places to work remotely, but reliable connectivity requires some planning.

If your work involves occasional emails and flexible hours, a single good internet connection may be sufficient.

If you're regularly attending video meetings, managing a business, transferring large files, or working with strict deadlines, we strongly recommend a secondary internet connection and backup power.

The goal is not simply to have fast internet, but to have a reliable setup that allows you to continue working when something goes wrong.

At The Conscious Concierge Costa Rica, we help clients understand the practical realities of living and working in the Southern Zone, including internet options, property infrastructure, and backup solutions.