Publicado en abril 9, 2025
Por:
Ingenios peru
Traveling to Peru is an exciting adventure filled with opportunities to explore stunning landscapes, rich culture, and ancient ruins. However, staying connected while you’re in Peru can be essential, whether for navigation, communication, or sharing your experiences on social media. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to stay connected is by purchasing a Sim Card in Peru. In this article, we’ll explore how to get a SIM card in Peru, the benefits, and tips to ensure you have seamless mobile connectivity throughout your trip.
Why Do You Need a SIM Card in Peru?
Convenience and Affordability
Having a local SIM Card in Peru is the most convenient and affordable way to stay connected. It allows you to use local data and make calls at rates that are far cheaper than international roaming services from your home country. With a Peruvian SIM card, you can access mobile data for GPS, internet browsing, social media, and even make calls to local numbers easily.
Avoiding High Roaming Charges
International roaming can be expensive, especially when you're traveling in a country where your home network does not have favorable agreements. By getting a SIM Card in Peru, you can completely avoid those steep charges and enjoy affordable access to mobile services.

Types of SIM Cards Available in Peru
Prepaid vs. Postpaid SIM Cards
In Peru, you’ll find both prepaid and postpaid SIM card options. For most travelers, a prepaid SIM card is the best choice since it offers flexibility and no long-term commitment. You pay upfront for the data and services you require, making it ideal for short stays.
Prepaid SIM Cards: These are the most popular option for tourists and come with different data, call, and text packages.
Postpaid SIM Cards: These are more suitable for long-term residents or individuals who want to commit to a contract for ongoing mobile services.
Mobile Network Providers in Peru
Peru has several mobile network providers offering a variety of prepaid SIM cards. The major mobile carriers include:
Claro: Known for its extensive coverage, Claro is one of the leading mobile service providers in Peru. It offers various prepaid data packages suitable for tourists.
Movistar: Another prominent provider in Peru, Movistar offers competitive data plans and good coverage across urban and rural areas.
Entel: A key player in the Peruvian market, Entel provides reliable 4G coverage and flexible prepaid plans, making it a strong option for both tourists and long-term visitors.
Bitel: A popular choice for budget-conscious travelers, Bitel offers affordable prepaid packages with decent data coverage.

How to Buy a SIM Card in Peru
Where to Purchase a SIM Card
Purchasing a Sim Card in Peru is simple and can be done at various locations:
Airport Kiosks: You can buy a SIM card at the Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, as well as other major airports across Peru. These kiosks are convenient but may charge slightly higher prices than other outlets.
Mobile Carrier Stores: For better deals and more options, visit one of the carrier’s official stores in major cities like Lima, Cusco, or Arequipa. These stores are located in shopping centers or malls and provide customer support in case you need assistance.
Convenience Stores: Many local shops and convenience stores in Peru also sell SIM cards, often at competitive prices.
What Documents Are Required?
When buying a Sim Card in Peru, you’ll need to provide some form of identification. Typically, your passport will suffice as proof of identity. It’s also important to note that Peru has regulations for SIM card registration, and this is typically done at the point of sale. The registration process is quick and easy, so be sure to have your passport handy.

How to Activate Your SIM Card
In-Store Activation
When purchasing a SIM card at a mobile carrier’s official store, the staff will usually help you activate it on the spot. They will insert the SIM card into your phone and ensure that it’s working properly. This is especially useful if you're unsure about the activation process, as they can guide you through it.
Self-Activation at the Airport or Other Outlets
If you buy your Sim Card in Peru at an airport kiosk or a convenience store, you may need to activate it yourself. Most SIM cards come with easy-to-follow instructions on how to activate them. Generally, the process involves inserting the SIM card, restarting your phone, and sending a short activation code via text or dialing a special number. It can take up to a few minutes to activate the card.
Top Mobile Data Plans for Tourists
Data Packages for Tourists
Each carrier offers tailored prepaid plans:
Claro: Daily, weekly, and monthly plans starting at 5 PEN (~1-2 USD). Ideal for tourists needing flexibility.
Movistar: Affordable tourist-specific packages with 4G data and unlimited local calls/texts.
Entel: Balanced daily/weekly plans with data and international call options, perfect for short-term visitors.
Bitel: Budget-friendly packages with generous data allowances.
International Calls and Roaming
Most providers offer add-ons for international calls. Entel, for example, includes international minutes in some plans.

Coverage and Network Speed in Peru
Coverage Across Peru
Coverage is excellent in cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. Rural areas (e.g., Sacred Valley, Amazon) may have weaker signals.
4G/3G Network Availability
All major providers—Claro, Movistar, Entel, and Bitel—offer 4G LTE in cities. Remote areas may rely on 3G.
Mobile Hotspot Rentals
Rent a hotspot for stable Wi-Fi on multiple devices, ideal for groups.
How to Manage Your Mobile Usage
Monitoring Your Data Usage
It’s essential to keep track of your data usage when you’re in Peru to avoid running out of data unexpectedly. Most mobile providers offer apps or SMS services that allow you to monitor your usage and top-up your balance if needed.
Pro Tip: Set up a mobile data limit on your phone to avoid overage charges. You can usually adjust this in your phone's settings under data management.
Recharging Your SIM Card
If you need to recharge your SIM card for more data or minutes, you can do so easily at most stores, kiosks, or online through your mobile provider’s website or app. Many providers also offer an option to top up via SMS by sending a code.
Tips for Using Your SIM Card in Peru
Using Local Wi-Fi Hotspots
If you’re concerned about data usage, take advantage of the many free Wi-Fi hotspots available in cafes, restaurants, and hotels. This can help reduce your reliance on mobile data while you’re out exploring.
Keep Your Phone Unlocked
To use a Sim Card in Peru, your phone must be unlocked. If your phone is locked to a specific network, you’ll need to contact your home provider to unlock it before you travel. Most modern phones are unlocked, but it’s always a good idea to check beforehand.
Emergency Contacts and Local Number Format
If you're making calls to local numbers in Peru, be aware that the country code for Peru is +51. To call local numbers within the country, you typically don’t need to dial the country code. However, for international calls, you'll need to use the full dialing code, which includes the country code.

Stay Connected and Enjoy Peru
Whether you’re navigating the cobbled streets of Cusco, trekking to Machu Picchu, or exploring the Amazon rainforest, having a Sim Card in Peru will keep you connected, informed, and safe throughout your trip. By following the tips and suggestions in this article, you’ll be able to make the most of your mobile services while enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer. With an easy-to-purchase SIM card, reliable coverage, and affordable plans, staying connected in Peru has never been easier. Happy travels!
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