Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport is the largest airport in Peru and serves as a major transportation hub for international travelers arriving in or transiting through the country. Having cellular internet connectivity during your trip is important, but obtaining a local SIM card upon landing at Lima Airport can seem confusing if you’ve never done it before. This guide covers everything you need to know about purchasing a SIM card at Lima International Airport.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Lima Airport
At Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima, Peru, your options for buying a SIM card are a little more limited than at some other major airports.
Don’t expect to find big retail stores for carriers like Claro or Movistar inside the terminals like you might elsewhere. But no need to stress! A few handy little shops can hook you up with what you need.
Be! Smart Store and Coolbox are your best bets – look for them at public zones. Aelia Duty Free at international zones also sells SIMs. While convenient, prices may be higher than outside the airport. No problem though, it’s worth it for quick access!
While these stores do provide a quick solution for obtaining a SIM upon arrival, travellers should be aware that prices are often higher compared to what can be found in city centre operator stores or online retailers. The convenience of buying a SIM inside the locked-down airport area comes at a premium price.
For a better deal, it is recommended that tourists make their way outside of the airport gates and visit the actual branded stores of Claro, Movistar or other cellular providers. Prices will generally be lower there than what is on offer in the airport.
An even more cost-effective solution is to purchase an eSIM profile online before your trip and activate it upon arrival without needing any airport SIM shopping. This allows travellers to enjoy Peru’s cellular connectivity right away at a fair market rate.
II. SIM Card at Lima Airport – Options and Costs
Peru offers competitive prepaid data plan options from major carriers Movistar, Claro, entel, and Bitel. Travelers will find several multi-GB plans covering 15-30 day periods for under $10 USD. Movistar and Claro generally have the most expensive plans but offer the largest data allotments of up to 40GB.
| Operator | Data | Time Period | Price (USD) |
| Movistar | 2.5GB | 15 days | ~$4 |
| 4GB | 20 days | ~$5 | |
| 4.5GB | 25 days | ~$5 | |
| 7GB | 30 days | ~$6 | |
| 10GB | 10 days | ~$4 | |
| Claro | 14GB | 30 days | ~$20 |
| 40GB | ~$40 | ||
| entel | 20GB | 30 days | ~$8 |
| 30GB | ~$10 | ||
| Bitel | 30GB | 30 days | ~$20 |
III. Peruesim.com – an Alternative to SIM Card at Lima Airport
If you have an unlocked phone with eSIM capability, downloading an eSIM before your trip can avoid the hassle of finding and purchasing a physical SIM card upon arrival. Some eSIM providers like peruesim.com offer Peru data packages starting as low as $7.90 USD for 1GB for 3 days. Be sure to confirm your phone has eSIM functionality before relying on this option.
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IV. FAQs about SIM Card at Lima Airport
Do I need to show my passport to buy a SIM card at Lima Airport?
Yes, you’ll be asked to show your passport as a form of ID when purchasing a SIM card in Peru.
Can I use unlocked phones from other countries in Peru?
Yes, as long as your phone is unlocked it should accept a Peruvian SIM card without issues. Peru’s networks use GSM and 4G LTE bands compatible with most modern smartphones.
How can I top up my Peruvian SIM card?
You can top up your prepaid SIM card at kiosks for Claro, Movistar or other providers around Lima. Ask your hotel staff for the nearest location.
Is there free WiFi at Lima Airport?
Limited free WiFi is available at Lima International Airport, but the connection can be slow and unreliable. A local SIM card is highly recommended for fast mobile data while travelling in Peru.
Do SIM cards in Peru have unlimited data plans?
No, Peruvian SIM cards aimed at travelers typically have data packages ranging from 500MB to 5GB over a set number of days. Unlimited data plans are only available for long-term residents.
V. Conclusion
Purchasing a SIM card from one of the airport kiosks upon arriving at Lima Airport provides travelers with an easy and hassle-free option for staying connected during their visit to Peru. The major operators offer reliable coverage nationwide, so you can rely on having data and call service wherever your travels take you.
The activation support means you’ll be up and running quickly without any language barriers. While slightly more expensive than other alternatives, the value of instant usability directly at the airport makes it a convenient solution for those who prioritize ease of use. With a SIM in hand before leaving the terminal, you’ll be all set to contact your transfer, search for accommodation, explore Lima and smoothly transition into your Peru itinerary.
