A South America SIM card helps you stay connected without roaming fees — but coverage, prices, and ease of activation vary considerably by provider and country. Below, we look at leading prepaid providers, typical prices, and the best places to buy a SIM card — and whether a Saily eSIM could be a better choice for your trip.
If you want to avoid international roaming fees — which add up fast — then yes, you’ll want a local SIM card or an eSIM.
A prepaid SIM card gives you mobile data at local prices. The catch is that you’d need to buy a physical SIM in each country you visit — find a shop, possibly present your ID, and swap cards at every border. A regional eSIM for South America allows you to skip all that and sort out your data before departure.
Which one suits you better depends on your itinerary, your phone, and how you like to travel — so let’s compare.
Advantages of using prepaid SIM cards in South America
A local prepaid SIM card works like the one in your phone at home — the difference is what you pay and how you buy it. A prepaid SIM card has several clear advantages when traveling in South America:
You can connect directly to a local mobile network, which may provide reliable data, call, and text coverage in populated areas.
Plans come with different data allowances, validity periods, and prices, so you can choose one that suits your trip and expected usage.
SIM cards are widely available at airports, at mobile carrier shops, at convenience stores, and online.
Local carriers usually offer good coverage in the country where you buy the SIM.
Once the SIM has been registered and activated, you can usually start using your data plan straight away.
Some prepaid plans include a local phone number, which can be useful for making reservations or contacting accommodation providers and local services.
Downsides of using prepaid SIM cards in South America
A physical SIM card is a popular way to access mobile data and local call services, but using one isn’t always straightforward. Potential disadvantages include:
Your phone must be unlocked and compatible with the carrier’s network. If it’s locked, you’ll need to contact your home mobile provider before traveling.
Coverage may be limited in rural areas, mountain regions, rainforests, and other remote locations.
Buying and activating a physical SIM can take time, especially if you need to find an official shop after arriving.
Registration or activation instructions may be difficult to follow because of language barriers.
Some prepaid plans have small data allowances or short validity periods, which means you may need to top up or replace the SIM during your trip.
Local SIM cards are generally designed for use in one country, meaning you may need to get a different SIM card each time you cross a border.
Your home SIM is easy to lose or damage once it’s out of your phone, so you’ll need to keep it somewhere safe.
You won't receive calls or verification texts on your usual number while the local SIM is in your phone.
Best prepaid SIM card providers for South America
The best SIM card for South America depends on which countries you’re visiting, how long you’ll be traveling, and how much mobile data you expect to use. Claro, Movistar, and Entel provide local prepaid plans in specific countries, while travel SIM companies such as SimCorner offer plans that work across several destinations.
Before buying a South America travel SIM card, check its coverage list carefully. A plan described as regional may include countries in Central America while excluding some South American destinations.
Claro
Claro is one of the most widely available local mobile providers in South America, operating in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay. It offers country-specific prepaid SIM cards with different data allowances, validity periods, and call packages.
Claro can be a practical and affordable choice if you’re spending most of your trip in one country. However, buying a Claro SIM in one destination doesn’t mean that your prepaid plan will work in another. Check the local Claro website for current prices, activation requirements, and roaming conditions before traveling across a border.
Movistar
Movistar offers prepaid mobile services in several South American destinations, including specialized support in Argentina to help tourists complete the mandatory passport registration. Available packages and registration requirements vary by country, and some plans include local calls, messages, and social media data as well as a general data allowance.
Movistar doesn’t offer one international SIM card for South America that automatically works under the same plan across the entire region. It may therefore suit a single-country trip better than a longer itinerary involving several border crossings.
Entel
Entel is a well-known mobile brand in both Chile and Bolivia, although the two are separate companies with different ownership and networks. Entel Chile is a private, publicly traded telecom provider, while Entel Bolivia is a state-owned operator. Their prepaid plans, pricing, and registration processes differ.
In Chile, travelers can purchase SIM cards at official stores, supermarkets, and pharmacies, and register the line using their passport.
Entel could be a good option if you’re staying in Chile or Bolivia for most of your trip. However, its standard prepaid packages are intended for domestic use, so you might need a separate roaming product or another SIM card when traveling elsewhere in South America.
SimCorner
SimCorner sells a multi-country South America data SIM card with 12 GB of data and 30 days of validity. It currently works in Brazil, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, and Puerto Rico, so check your itinerary before buying. The physical SIM provides 4G/5G data but doesn’t support hotspot sharing and is designed for use in unlocked mobile phones rather than tablets, Wi-Fi devices, or dongles. Calls and outgoing text messages aren’t included.
TravSIM
TravSIM provides physical SIM cards and eSIMs for over 150 countries, with a strong focus on high-data bundles. Their regional Central and South America physical SIM is a popular choice for heavy users, typically offering 12 GB of data valid for 30 days. This plan covers key destinations like Brazil, Chile, and Peru, though the exact country list can shift depending on current provider agreements.
Before you buy, check the latest destination list and shipping times on their site or marketplace listing to ensure it matches your itinerary. If the regional bundle is out of stock, individual country-specific SIMs for Brazil are usually readily available.
How much do South American travel SIM cards cost?
A South America travel SIM card costs anywhere from US$6 for a local prepaid plan to US$45 or more for a physical travel SIM ordered before departure. Local SIM cards are usually the cheapest option, while multi-country plans cost more in exchange for wider coverage and the convenience of using one SIM across several destinations.
The table below compares representative local prepaid plans and travel SIM products from the providers we’ve just covered. Prices, promotions, data allowances, and exchange rates can change, so be sure to check the provider’s website before buying.
Provider
Example plan
Key features
*Price
Claro
Prezão+ in Brazil
30-day bundle including up to 15 GB of data, local calls, and unlimited WhatsApp (depending on the selected offer)
BRL 30 (around US$6)
Movistar
Prepaid PRO monthly plan in Colombia
39 GB for 30 days, unlimited domestic calls, messages and access to selected apps, limited hotspot data
COP 35,000 (around US$11)
Entel (Chile)
Recarga Mágica in Chile
50 GB for 30 days, 700 local minutes, selected social media use included
CLP 10,000 (around US$11)
SimCorner
South America SIM card
12 GB for 30 days, coverage in ten destinations, 4G/5G data, UK phone number, incoming calls included
Local prepaid SIMs from Claro, Movistar, and Entel are the cheapest options in this comparison, particularly if you’re staying in one country. SimCorner costs more but covers several destinations with one physical SIM. TravSIM’s currently available Brazil plan is considerably more expensive than buying directly from a local carrier and only covers one country.
When comparing prices, also check whether the SIM card itself costs extra, whether calls and texts are included, and whether you can top up the plan. Some promotional data allowances are only available when you buy or recharge online.
Where to buy a SIM card for South America
You can buy a SIM card for South America before departure or after arriving at your destination. The best option depends on how soon you need mobile data, whether you’re visiting one or several countries, and whether you want help registering and activating your SIM.
Online before arrival
Ordering a South America travel SIM card online lets you arrange your mobile data before departure and connect soon after landing. International providers such as SimCorner and TravSIM can deliver physical SIM cards to your home, although these plans are often more expensive than local prepaid options and you’ll need to allow time for delivery. Buying in advance is convenient for multi-country travel, but check the coverage list, activation process, and device compatibility carefully. Having your SIM ready before you land saves you from relying on airport Wi-Fi or data roaming while looking for a local shop.
At the airport
Major airports in South America may have carrier booths, kiosks, or mobile phone shops selling prepaid SIM cards. Buying a SIM card at the airport is one of the easiest ways to connect immediately, and staff may be able to help with registration and activation. However, airport options can be more expensive than those available in the city. Besides, the choice of plans may be limited, and shops might be closed if you land late at night or early in the morning.
At convenience stores and supermarkets
Convenience stores, supermarkets, pharmacies, and kiosks sell prepaid SIM cards and top-ups in some South American countries. Prices are generally closer to standard local rates than those at airports, and these outlets can be easy to find near your accommodation.
However, because these are general retail outlets rather than specialized mobile shops, staff are typically not trained to explain complex data plans or troubleshoot technical issues. Furthermore, these stores often lack the official carrier system access required to register your passport details. You may still need to complete the registration process yourself via the provider’s website or visit an official carrier shop to get the line fully activated.
At local mobile carrier shops
Official shops operated by providers such as Claro, Movistar, and Entel are often the best places to compare local prepaid plans and receive help with registration. Staff can explain data allowances, validity periods, top-up options, and any identification requirements before activating the SIM. Local carrier shops usually offer better value than airport retailers, but you may need to travel into the city or wait in line, and the SIM will generally be intended for use in that country rather than across South America.
How to buy and activate a SIM card for South America
Buying a South America SIM card is usually straightforward, although the exact process varies by country and provider.
Choose between a local and regional SIM. A local prepaid plan may offer better value for one country, while an international SIM card can be more convenient for a multi-country trip.
Compare the available plans. Check the coverage, data allowance, validity period, top-up options, and whether calls, texts, or hotspot use are included.
Buy your chosen SIM card. Purchase it at an airport, official carrier shop, participating retailer, or online travel SIM provider.
Complete the registration process. Follow the provider’s instructions and submit any required information or documents. Those can vary by country and provider.
Activate the SIM. Insert it into your phone, follow the activation instructions, and select it for mobile data in your phone’s settings.
Test your connection. Check that your phone has connected to the local network before leaving the shop or airport kiosk. Restarting the device may help if the connection doesn’t appear immediately.
What do you need to buy a SIM card for South America?
If you decide to get a SIM card for South America, the exact requirements may depend on local regulations and the provider. You may need:
Your passport. Kiosks and stores might need to see it in person, while online providers could ask for a photo of the document.
A local address, such as your hotel. Not every South America SIM provider asks for this, but it’s useful to have that information just in case.
An unlocked phone that’s compatible with local networks. Double-check that your device supports the mobile networks used at your destination and isn’t locked to your home carrier.
If all this sounds like too much effort, consider an easier option — use an eSIM app.
Why are eSIMs better than SIM cards in South America?
For many travelers, an eSIM offers a more convenient and flexible way to stay connected than a traditional SIM card. Instead of visiting a shop and replacing your physical SIM, you can arrange your mobile data digitally and prepare it before your trip. When comparing an eSIM vs. a physical SIM, the main benefits of eSIMs are that you can:
Set it up before departure. You can buy and install your eSIM at home while you have a reliable internet connection.
Connect when you arrive. Once your plan is set up correctly, you can access mobile data soon after landing instead of searching for a SIM card shop.
Avoid swapping physical SIM cards. You won’t need to open your phone’s SIM tray or replace its existing card whenever you enter a new country.
Keep your home SIM active. On compatible dual-SIM devices, you can use your eSIM for mobile data while keeping your usual SIM available for calls and verification messages.
Travel across several countries more easily. A regional plan can provide data in multiple destinations, reducing the need to buy and register a new local SIM at every border you cross.
Switch plans and top up digitally. You can manage your data plan through an app and purchase more data without finding a carrier shop.
Eliminate the risk of losing a SIM. Because an eSIM is built into your device, it can’t be dropped, damaged, or left behind in a hotel room — unlike a physical SIM card.
To use an eSIM, you’ll need an unlocked, eSIM-compatible phone, and you should always check that your chosen plan covers every country on your itinerary. For a multi-country journey, an eSIM card for South America is often simpler to arrange and manage than several local prepaid SIM cards.
What is the best eSIM card provider in South America?
The best eSIM card provider in South America depends on the countries you’re visiting, the length of your stay, your budget, and the amount of data you need. Before choosing a plan, compare different eSIM offers by coverage, validity period, data allowance, top-up options, and hotspot availability.
For many travelers, Saily is a strong all-around choice. Its regional eSIM for South America covers 12 destinations across Latin America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay. You can choose from several data allowances and validity periods, install the eSIM before departure, and manage your plan through the Saily app.
Saily also offers:
Automatic activation. Your regional plan activates when you arrive in an included destination, provided the eSIM and data roaming are enabled.
Easy top-ups. You can add more data through the app without visiting a shop or installing another SIM.
Hotspot sharing. You can share your mobile data with other devices when necessary.
Built-in security features. Saily plans include an ad blocker, web protection, and a virtual location feature.
24/7 support. Help is available around the clock through the Saily app if you experience setup or connection problems.
Check the coverage list carefully before buying, particularly if you’re traveling across several countries. Saily’s Latin America plan includes destinations outside South America and doesn’t cover every South American country, so make sure it matches your complete itinerary.
How to use an eSIM card in South America
You can buy, install, and manage an eSIM digitally, without visiting a mobile carrier shop or replacing the physical SIM in your phone. Here’s how to get an eSIM and use it during your trip:
Check that your phone supports eSIM technology. Your device must be eSIM compatible and unlocked before you can buy a data plan.
Choose a suitable data plan. Select a country-specific plan or a regional Latin America plan that covers every destination on your itinerary. Consider how much data you need as well as the plan’s validity period and price.
Download the app and install your eSIM. Download the Saily eSIM app, purchase your chosen plan, and follow the in-app instructions to install the eSIM. Complete this step before departure while you have a reliable internet connection.
Connect when you arrive. Enable the Saily eSIM in your phone’s settings, select it for mobile data, and turn on data roaming for the Saily line. Your plan should activate automatically when it connects to a supported local network.
Manage your plan through the app. You can check your remaining data and expiry date while traveling. If you’re running low, add more data through the app or enable automatic top-ups where available.
When using your Saily eSIM for mobile data, check your phone’s SIM settings to prevent your home provider from using data abroad and charging roaming fees.
How much does an eSIM in South America cost?
Prices for South America travel eSIMs vary by provider, data allowance, coverage, and validity period. A Saily eSIM for Latin America currently costs between US$7.99 and US$44.99, depending on the data allowance and validity period. Smaller plans can suit short trips and light use, while larger plans offer better value if you’re traveling for several weeks or planning to frequently use maps, social media, and messaging apps.
Saily’s regional plans can also help you reduce your travel costs because you don’t need to pay for a physical card or delivery. You can install the eSIM digitally, use one regional plan across the included destinations, and top up through the app instead of buying another SIM card. Each plan also currently provides 3% back in Saily credits, while the built-in ad blocker may help your data allowance last longer by cutting out unnecessary background traffic.
These plans provide mobile data rather than standard calls and text messages, although you can still communicate through internet-based apps such as WhatsApp, Signal, and Viber. Prices and plan details may change, so check the latest options before purchasing.
Yes, you can buy regional travel SIM cards and eSIMs that work across multiple countries in South America. However, coverage varies by provider, and one plan may not include every country in the region, so check the destination list before buying.
A South America eSIM wins, hands down. When the question of eSIM vs. physical SIM comes up in relation to price, plan flexibility, and coverage, an eSIM comes out on top. You don’t have to swap cards, it works in multiple countries, and it’s usually cheaper.
Yes, you can get unlimited internet from some providers when traveling in South America, but unlimited plans are less widely available than fixed-data options and may cost more. They may also be subject to fair-use policies, reduced speeds, or hotspot limits, so check the plan conditions before buying.
Yes, pocket Wi-Fi is another way to get data in South America. Its huge benefit is that it can connect several devices at once. However, you’ll need to carry and charge an additional device, and rental fees or data limits may make it less convenient than an eSIM.
Mobile data without borders
Saily — your secure and reliable eSIM companion for every journey.
