Getting a Peru Sim Card: Everything You Need to Know in 2021

2021 Updated information about how to get a Peru sim card, where to find a sim card in Peru, and everything you need to know to use your phone while traveling.

While you’re traveling in Peru, you’ll definitely want to have a way to keep in touch with your family and friends back home. One of the best options for doing this is to pick up a Peru SIM card for your mobile phone. Sim cards in Peru are easy to use and affordable, making this the perfect way for travelers to stay in contact with loved ones. Check out our guide below to learn about Peru sim cards and prepare for your trip!

Before You Buy a Peru Sim Card

First things first, your phone will need to be unlocked before you can use it with a Peruvian SIM card. Many phones come unlocked by default, but make sure you check beforehand so that you don’t have any issues trying to use a SIM card in Peru. Two cell phone networks are used worldwide. These are known as the Global System for Mobiles (GSM) and the Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA). Most countries in South America (including Peru) use the GSM network for mobile service. Phones that use the CDMA network may not work with Peruvian phone services, so the network your phone uses should be determined before buying a SIM card in Peru. Fortunately, many newer models of phones are designed to work with both networks. If you have a Motorola G4, E4 or later, an iPhone 6 or later, a Google Pixel, or a Samsung Galaxy S7 or later, you won’t need to worry about network compatibility since all of these models come equipped to work on both GSM and CDMA networks.

Buying a SIM Card in Peru

The industry leaders for cell phone service in Peru are Claro and Movistar. These two companies will provide the largest coverage areas, an important factor to consider since travel in Peru often involves passing through remote rural areas in the mountains. Most travelers choose to buy a prepaid SIM card for their trip to Peru. This allows you to make and receive phone calls as well as send messages and use internet data without needing to sign a long-term contract. Simply “recharge” your card when it’s running low and you’re good to go.

Another option for a SIM card in Peru is the Super Chip Turista offered by Entel. This SIM card and service is designed specifically for tourists traveling in Peru. With this package, you’ll receive unlimited time on Facebook and Whatsapp for 15 days, 20 minutes of domestic calls and 2 GB of data. The price for the Super Chip Turista is S/69 (around $20).

Stores selling Claro and Movistar SIM cards (as well as other carriers like Entel) can be found all over Peru, including the popular tourist district of Miraflores in Lima. Compare what each company offers and, once you’ve decided on a carrier, the store clerk should be able to help you with setting up your phone with its new Peruvian SIM card. They’ll often ask for a picture ID when making the sale, so make sure you bring your passport with you to the store.

Prices for SIM cards in Peru are generally around S/15 (under $5). Make you also purchase phone credit for the SIM card at the same time so that you are able to make calls right away. The cost of SIM cards and phone credit will vary depending on the service provider. Make sure you also inquire about using texts or WhatsApp messages with your SIM card, since these occasionally carry different prices.This should be everything you need to know about buying and setting up your Peru sim card. You’ll now be able to communicate with your family and friends back home with ease. If you have any other questions regarding planning your Peru trip, do not hesitate to contact us. To find out all you need to know about Taxis in Peru, look no further!