A Peru SIM card is a small chip for your unlocked phone, connecting you to local networks like Claro, Movistar, Entel, and Bitel for affordable communication. These providers offer a variety of prepaid SIM cards with different data packages and call/text options. It provides a local number for calls and texts within Peru, and crucially, access to mobile data. This allows you to use navigation apps, translate languages, book tours, share your experiences, and stay connected with loved ones, all while avoiding expensive roaming charges. Essentially, it’s your key to staying connected and informed throughout your Peruvian adventure.
Table of Contents
I. Do I need to buy a Peru SIM card for my trip?
>> Yes, for most travelers, purchasing a local prepaid data SIM card in Peru is highly recommended. While other options like roaming with your home carrier or relying on Wi-Fi exist, a local SIM offers the best balance of cost-effectiveness, convenience, and reliable connectivity. Roaming can be exorbitantly expensive, and while Wi-Fi is available in many hotels and cafes, it’s not always reliable or secure, and limits your connectivity when you’re out exploring. A local SIM provides affordable data access for navigation, communication, and staying connected on the go, making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
II. Where to buy SIM cards in Peru?
It’s easy to purchase a Peru prepaid SIM card after you arrive. Here are some of the best places to buy one:
1. Purchasing a SIM Card Before Arriving in Peru
Learn how to purchase a SIM card for Peru before you arrive, advantages and disadvantages of this approach:
How to Buy:
You can purchase an international SIM card with Peru coverage from online retailers like Amazon, SimOptions, Holafly, or other international telecommunication providers. Search for “SIM Peru” or “Prepaid SIM card Peru” to find options. Some providers even deliver the SIM card to your home before your trip. You may also find options from your local mobile provider for international roaming plans, though these are often more expensive.
Pros
- Convenience: Connect to the internet as soon as you arrive in Peru, without wasting time searching for a store.
- Price and Plan Comparison: Easily compare different plans from various providers to choose the one that best suits your needs.
- Customer Support: International providers often offer customer support in English, making it easier to resolve any issues.
- Easy Management: You can activate and manage the SIM card before you travel, saving time when you arrive in Peru. Some providers offer eSIM options, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card.
Cons
- Cost: Typically more expensive than buying a SIM card in Peru.
- Potential for Technical Issues: While less likely, technical problems can still occur.
- Plan Options: The selection of data plans might be more limited compared to buying directly in Peru.
2. Where to buy Peru SIM card on arrival
Buying Peru SIM at Peru Airport
Buying a SIM card at Peru airport kiosks makes this possible without hassle.
- Instant Activation: Kiosk staff quickly activate your SIM, so you’re connected immediately.
- Major Providers: Access SIM cards from Peru’s top mobile networks for reliable coverage.
- Multilingual Support: Assistance is available in several languages, making the process easy.
- Cost Savings: Avoid high roaming fees and save time by getting connected right at the airport.
- Convenience: A small premium is worth the hassle-free, immediate connectivity after your flight.
✨Top places to find SIM card at Peru airport
Be Smart & Coolbox offer standard prepaid SIMs from major providers. However, the prices may be higher than buying SIM Peru at stores in the city center.
Buying a SIM Card in Peru at Physical Stores
Once you’re in Peru, you can find SIM cards at various physical stores:
- Official stores: Claro, Movistar, Entel, and Bitel operate stores in most major towns with a wide selection of SIM card packages and top-ups.
- Convenience stores/Supermarket: Oxxo, Tambo+, and larger supermarkets sell SIM cards offer standard prepaid SIMs from major providers
III. What type of SIM data is available in Peru for tourists?
Choosing the right SIM card is essential for staying connected in Peru. In this section, we compare the available SIM card types: physical SIM & eSIM to help you decide which suits your travel needs best.
1. Prepaid Peru SIM
A prepaid SIM card is a small plastic card inserted directly into your devices. Using prepaid SIM cards bring to visitors several advantages:
Pros
- Prepaid SIM cards are easily located at the airport, supermarkets, mobile operator stores, and kiosks all around Peru.
- Easy to use: Simply insert it into your phone and adhere to the activation guidelines.
- Compatible with a large variety of phones, including older generations, this device works with the majority of phones.
Cons:
- Needs a slot for a SIM card: If you use a dual-SIM phone, it may not be the best option, but you will need a phone with a free SIM card slot.
- Consists of switching SIMs: This can be a little annoying because you will have to take out your current SIM card.
2. eSIM (Electronic SIMs)
eSIMs are digital SIM profiles that can be purchased online and uploaded to your phone remotely, without a physical card.
Pros
- Practical: No need to go to a retailer or exchange actual SIM cards.
- Instant Activation: Purchase an eSIM online at https://peruesim.com/ and activate it upon arrival in Peru to stay connected.
- Able to hold several eSIMs: For upcoming travels, store eSIMs for many nations on your phone.
Cons:
- Needs a compatible gadget: only functions with more recent cellphones that have eSIM support.
- Perhaps less accessible: In Peru, eSIMs may not be as widely accessible as traditional SIM cards, despite their increasing popularity.
For most travelers, a standard Peru prepaid SIM card will be the best all-around option for price and convenience. But eSIMs are good for short trips or as a backup.
Important Note: To use an eSIM, make sure your phone is:
- Unlocked: This allows it to connect to Peru’s mobile networks.
- eSIM-compatible: Check your phone’s specifications or consult a list of compatible devices
IV. How Much Data Is Enough for a Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for Peru?
As a visitor to Peru, you will want to buy enough data for your connectivity needs during the trip. Here are some data usage estimates:
Minimal Use (Emails/Messages Only)
- 1 – 2 GB per week should be enough for minimal usage
- Good for occasional emails, messaging, some browsing
Medium Use (Emails, Social, Maps)
- 2 – 4 GB per week for moderate usage
- Good for regular emails, messaging, social media, maps
Heavy Use (Video, Music Streaming)
- 4 – 8+ GB per week for frequent usage
- For video calling, streaming, large downloads
To conserve your data, use WiFi whenever available and limit video/music streaming. Check your usage occasionally and top up as required so you don’t run out.
V. What is the price of a SIM card in Peru?
Costs for Peru prepaid SIM cards will vary slightly by provider, data amount, and specific plan. However, here are typical costs:
| Provider | Data | Features | Validity | Price (Soles) | Price (USD) |
| Movistar | 2.5 GB | Unlimited calls/SMS & unlimited social media | 15 days | 15 | $4 |
| 4 GB | Unlimited calls/SMS & unlimited social media | 20 days | 20 | $5 | |
| 4.5 GB | Unlimited calls/SMS & unlimited social media | 25 days | 25 | $6 | |
| 7 GB | Unlimited calls/SMS & unlimited social media | 30 days | 30 | $7.5 | |
| Claro | 4 GB | 500 minutes, unlimited SMS & WhatsApp | 30 days* | 20 | $5.3 |
| 10.5 GB | Unlimited minutes, SMS & WhatsApp | 30 days* | 30 | $8 | |
| 13.5 GB | Unlimited minutes, SMS & WhatsApp | 30 days* | 40 | $10.7 | |
| Entel | 7 GB | Unlimited minutes, unlimited Facebook & Instagram | 30 days | 20 | $5.3 |
| 12 GB | Unlimited minutes, unlimited Facebook & Instagram | 30 days | 29 | $7.7 | |
| 20 GB | Unlimited minutes, unlimited Facebook & Instagram | 30 days | 39 | $10.4 |
✨ Important note: The prices may vary depending on time and the provider. Check the most up-to-date information before making a purchase.
Whether you only need the Internet for maps and email or want more video data, there are prepaid SIM options to keep you online using key apps while traveling in Peru.
>> To clearly understand the cost of each type of sim card you can visit: entel sim cost, claro SIM Cards cost, Movistar SIM Cards cost, Bitel SIM card cost.
VI. Best Mobile Operators for Peru SIM for tourist
Here are the top mobile carriers to consider when purchasing a Peru prepaid SIM card:
Claro
For tourists visiting Peru, Claro offers a variety of prepaid SIM cards with competitive data packages. These are readily available at airports, convenience stores, and Claro shops. Look for short-term plans specifically designed for visitors, often including generous data allowances for navigation, social media, and staying connected. Activating the SIM card is usually straightforward, and Claro staff can assist you. Comparing different options in-store or online will help you find the best plan for your travel needs.
Movistar
Movistar is a major mobile network operator in Peru, offering wide coverage across the country, including both urban and rural areas. They provide prepaid SIM cards in various sizes (nano, micro, and standard) to fit most devices. These prepaid options allow for flexible spending and control over mobile expenses. Movistar generally offers good network speeds, especially in major cities. Tourists and locals can easily purchase Movistar SIM cards at authorized retailers, including Movistar stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores throughout Peru.
Entel
Entel is another popular mobile operator in Peru, known for its competitive pricing and growing network coverage. They offer prepaid SIM cards in standard, micro, and nano sizes, catering to a wide range of devices. Entel’s data speeds are generally considered good, particularly in urban areas, and they offer various data packages to suit different needs. Prepaid Entel SIM cards are readily available for purchase at official Entel stores, supermarkets, pharmacies, and other authorized retailers across Peru.
Bitel
Bitel is a prominent mobile network operator in Peru, recognized for its affordable data plans and extensive 4G coverage, even reaching some remote areas. They offer prepaid SIM cards in all standard sizes (nano, micro, and standard), compatible with most mobile devices. Bitel is often favored for its budget-friendly options and strong data speeds, making it a popular choice for data-heavy users. You can easily find Bitel prepaid SIM cards at official Bitel stores, kiosks, supermarkets, and other authorized retailers throughout the country.
For most visitors, Claro or Movistar SIM cards offer the best all-round value and network coverage. But all four major providers offer affordable prepaid SIMs worth considering.
>> See the detailed mobile operator comparison of Peru to choose the best carrier
Purchasing a Peru SIM card is highly recommended to stay conveniently connected across Peru without costly roaming fees. Both major carriers and smaller providers offer affordable prepaid SIMs with excellent domestic connectivity. Look for bundled packages that include a SIM card, activation, and a starter data allotment. Top up data as required. Having mobile data and a Peru number will make traveling to Peru a breeze. Enjoy your trip!
