Lima is the capital and largest city in Peru. Getting connected with mobile data while visiting this bustling metropolis is essential for using maps, rideshares, and social media. Fortunately, buying a SIM card in Lima is easy and affordable with the right information.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about purchasing SIM cards in Lima, from the best operators to where to find them. Read on for local tips to stay connected during your Peru travels.
Table of Contents
I. Which Mobile Operator is the Best in Lima?
If you’re looking to purchase a SIM card and mobile plan while visiting Lima, Peru, there are a few main operators to choose from – Movistar, Claro, Entel, and Bitel. Here’s a breakdown of each to help you decide which may be the best fit:
| Operator | Coverage | Speeds | Plan Pricing | Additional Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Movistar | Widest coverage across Peru including Lima | Average 4G download speeds reported between 14-18Mbps in Lima | More expensive plan costs compared to competitors | |
| Claro | Large network reaching most areas including Lima | Similar average 4G speeds to Movistar reported in Lima between 14-18Mbps | Offers better value plan pricing than Movistar | Provides “Sin Fronteras” roaming for cheaper data use in other Latin American countries on their networks |
| Entel (formerly Nextel) | Coverage in Lima should be good but limited in other areas | Reported fastest average 4G speeds in Lima at around 18-20Mbps | Offers reasonably priced plans | Still working to fully build out their network |
| Bitel | Most limited network primarily covering rural areas | Much lower average 4G speeds reported | Affordable plan pricing | Coverage and speed reliability may be issues impacting usability in Lima |
In summary, based on the factors compared above such as coverage, speeds and pricing – Claro and Entel would likely provide the best mobile operator options for use primarily in Lima, Peru. Movistar is reliable but costlier, while Bitel may face coverage and performance challenges in the capital city.
Unlock more insights on Peru Mobile Operators: Which One is the Best?
II. Best Lima SIM Cards and Cost
Based on network quality and availability, here are the best SIM card options in Lima for travelers:
| SIM Card | Data (GB) | Time (days) | Price in SOL | Price in USD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Movistar | 10 | 10 | S/ 20 | ~$5.33 |
| Movistar | 4.5 | 25 | S/ 25 | ~$6.67 |
| Claro | 14 | 30 | S/ 100 | ~$26.67 |
| Claro | 4.5 | 30 | S/ 30 | ~$8 |
| Entel | 10 | 30 | S/ 29 | ~$7.73 |
| Entel | 20 | 30 | S/ 39 | ~$10.40 |
| Bitel | 6 | 30 | S/ 30 | ~$8 |
| Bitel | 10 | 30 | S/ 50 | ~$13.33 |
Movistar, Claro and Entel provide the best value for money SIM cards in Lima, Peru with large data allowances for up to a month. Choose based on your needs and budget. Always verify the latest plan rates and options when you purchase your SIM in Lima.
III. Where to Buy a SIM Card in Lima
Upon Arrival
The easiest way to get connected is to purchase a SIM card right at Jorge Chávez International Airport when you land in Lima.
Prices are generally the same as buying in the city. Look for the prepaid SIM card plans (planes prepago) and show your passport. The staff can help get you set up quickly with data, calls and texts.
Get the inside scoop on Where to Buy SIM Card at Lima Airport
In the City
If you miss the airport shops, you can also buy SIM cards from Claro, Movistar or Entel stores across Lima. Malls like Jockey Plaza, Plaza San Miguel, and Plaza Norte have retailer outlets for all the major providers.
Be prepared to show identification like your passport when purchasing. The sales staff will be able to assist with getting your new SIM card set up and activated right away.
Some corner stores, bodegas or estancos may also sell prepaid SIMs. However, it’s best to go to official mobile carrier stores to ensure you get the latest tourist SIM card deals and options.
IV. eSIM for Travelers to Lima – A Smart Alternative
Using an eSIM is a convenient alternative to physical SIM cards in Lima. An eSIM is a digital SIM that is installed directly on your phone – no card needed.
Peru eSIM plans from peruesim.com offer flexible data packages starting from only 1GB for 3 days perfect for short trips. You can also opt for larger packages like 5GB for 5 days or 8GB for 14 days depending on your travel duration and data needs. Enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your stay without worrying about finding and activating different physical SIM cards.
Plans that may interest you
V. Things to Prepare when Buying a SIM Card in Lima
Purchasing and setting up a new SIM card in Lima is very straightforward. However, having these items handy will make the process faster and smoother:
- Unlocked Phone – Your phone must be unlocked to accept a Peruvian SIM card. Contact your home provider in advance to request an unlock.
- Passport – Have your passport ready to show as ID when buying a SIM card.
- Cash – Have some local currency on hand (PEN) to pay for your new SIM, as some stores may not accept foreign credit cards.
- Basic Spanish – Know key words like “SIM card” (tarjeta SIM), “data” (datos), “plan” (plan) to help communicate what you need.
With your phone unlocked and a few essentials prepared, getting connected with a Lima SIM card will be simple.
VI. Tips and Recommendations
Follow these tips to make the most of your new SIM card in Lima:
- Only buy SIMs from authorized carrier stores or kiosks to avoid scams.
- Compare plans ahead of time online to know what you want before purchasing.
- Restart your phone after inserting the new SIM to ensure proper activation.
- Manually select the Claro, Movistar or Entel network from your phone settings for optimal connectivity.
- Conserve your high-speed data for essential activities like navigation and travel research.
- Purchase extra data via the provider’s app if you need more than your plan’s allowance.
- Disable data roaming to avoid unwanted charges from accidentally using networks in other countries.
VII. FAQs about Buying a SIM Card in Lima
From which mobile operators can I buy a SIM card in Lima?
The major mobile operators in Peru that offer prepaid SIM cards in Lima are Movistar, Claro, Entel, and Bitel. You can purchase SIM cards from their retail stores.
Do I need identification to buy a SIM card?
Yes, by law operators require verification of identity with a local ID card (DNI). Foreigners can purchase SIM cards by showing their passport at corporate stores. Street vendors may say you need a DNI.
How much do SIM cards cost?
Basic starter SIM cards generally cost between S/.5-10. Replacement SIMs or special sized nano/micro SIMs may cost slightly more.
What do I get with a basic SIM card purchase?
A basic starter SIM comes with a small amount of airtime/data valid for a short period (a few days) to allow activation of service. You will need to do an initial minimum top-up.
How do I top-up my prepaid balance?
Top-ups can be done at operator stores or thousands of third party retailers/newsstands displaying their branding. Top-ups are also available online or via mobile banking apps.
What are the options for data packages?
Operators offer daily/weekly packages with quotas from 50MB to several GB valid for 1-30 days, starting from S/.1-5. Apps like Facebook/WhatsApp may be zero-rated.
Do SIM cards work outside Lima/Peru?
SIMs will work elsewhere in Peru but may have limited coverage in rural areas. Only Claro provides limited roaming in Latin America. International roaming requires activation beforehand.
VIII. Final Words
Purchasing a prepaid SIM card in Lima is simple and affordable. The top providers are Movistar, Claro and Entel. You can conveniently buy a SIM upon arrival at the airport or visit one of their stores in the city. Typical costs range from $6-25 USD depending on data amounts. An eSIM is a smart alternative for unlocked phones.
Following the tips in this guide, you’ll have cheap, fast mobile data ready to make navigating and exploring this amazing city a breeze. Stay connected and informed during your Peru travels with a Lima SIM card.
