Why Get a Local SIM in Peru?

Buying a local SIM card lets travellers avoid exorbitant roaming charges and poor international data speeds. A reliable data connection is essential for using ride‑hailing apps, mapping routes, checking bank balances and contacting emergency services. While public Wi‑Fi is occasionally available, it is often slow and unsecured, so a prepaid SIM ensures consistent connectivity.

Main Mobile Carriers & Coverage

Peru has four major mobile operators: Claro, Movistar, Bitel and Entel. All offer prepaid SIM cards with data, calls and texts. Coverage varies: Claro operates the largest 4G/5G network and is widely recommended for travellers. Movistar has good urban coverage but patchy rural signal, while Entel and Bitel operate smaller networks and may struggle outside cities. All four providers have stores and kiosks in major cities like Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and Puno.

Cost of SIM Cards & Data Packages

A prepaid SIM card costs about S/.5 (≈US$1.50). At purchase you need to show your passport and register the SIM; it comes with a Peruvian phone number and you can add credit immediately. The major carriers sell tourist packages:

  • Claro: Choose from 4 GB data + 500 minutes + unlimited SMS and WhatsApp for S/.20; 10.5 GB with unlimited minutes/SMS/WhatsApp for S/.30; or 13.5 GB with unlimited minutes/SMS/WhatsApp for S/.40.
  • Movistar: A S/.5 SIM with a S/.20 top‑up offers about 2 GB of data.
  • Entel: A S/.5 chip plus S/.29 buys unlimited calls within Peru, the USA and Canada, plus 3.5 GB of data.
  • Bitel: Purchase a 5‑soles chip and add 20 soles for unlimited WhatsApp messages, voice clips and photos, plus calls and internet. Data speeds slow once credit runs low.

Travel blogger Traveltomtom tested the networks and concluded that Claro offers the best overall service for tourists. Its wide coverage means fewer dropped calls on long bus rides across the country.

Tip: Don't Buy at the Airport

At Lima Airport, SIM cards sold in the arrival hall are overpriced and often come with hidden fees. Traveltomtom recommends waiting until you reach a city centre and visiting an official phone store instead.

Where & How to Buy

Official carrier stores provide the easiest purchase and registration process. Bring your passport and tell the staff “chip de prepago” to request a prepaid SIM. Shops can be found in shopping malls, near Parque Kennedy in Miraflores or in central districts of Cusco and Arequipa. Avoid unlicensed street vendors who may sell expired cards.

Top up (recarga) credit at kiosks, supermarkets or pharmacies. Many convenience stores display the logos of the major carriers; simply tell the cashier your phone number and the amount to add. You will receive a confirmation text when the credit is applied.

Understanding eSIMs

eSIMs let travellers download a digital SIM profile ahead of time. They are convenient but more expensive than buying a physical SIM card in Peru. Several providers offer eSIM plans with different data limits; however, you may still need to register with the local network and not all devices support eSIMs. If you need immediate connectivity on arrival, consider ordering a prepaid eSIM but be prepared to pay a premium for the convenience.

Practical Tips

  • Check phone compatibility: Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports the GSM bands used in Peru. Most carriers use 4G LTE on Bands 2, 4 and 7.
  • Know your data needs: Streaming videos and uploading photos consume data quickly; choose packages accordingly.
  • Back up with Wi‑Fi: Hotels, hostels and cafés in major cities usually offer free Wi‑Fi. Use this to save data and make video calls.
  • Stay secure: Use a VPN when accessing sensitive accounts on public Wi‑Fi and be cautious when sharing your phone number.
Network Coverage

Remote areas in the Andes, Amazon and highland trekking routes may have little or no mobile signal, regardless of provider. Plan ahead by downloading offline maps and informing someone of your itinerary.

Conclusion

A local SIM card is a budget‑friendly way to stay connected in Peru. Choose a provider based on coverage and data packages, purchase the SIM at an official store and top up as needed. With careful planning, you’ll enjoy reliable internet access for navigation, communication and sharing your Peruvian adventures with friends back home.